Join us for this free lean-in learning series. Guest speakers from leading community organizations will discuss community-based solutions to help create more affordable housing, address staffing shortages, and harness community wealth. Registration is required. You can attend one event or all three! Presented in partnership with THRIVE Prince Edward County.

Community Land Trusts
Monday, January 30, 10 – 11:30am
Joshua Barndt, Executive Director, Parkdale Neighbourhood Land Trust
Nat Pace, National Network Coordinator, Canadian Network of Land Trusts
Presented at the Wellington and District Community Centre

Community land trusts are non-profit corporations created to acquire and hold land for a community. They take housing off the market and make it affordable. The land is held perpetually in trust, providing access for community uses such as affordable housing. Learn what’s happening in the Parkdale community, and groups across Canada.

Social Enterprise
Thursday, February 9, 1:30 – 3:30 pm
Carly Gasparini, Community Builders (via Zoom)

Community Builders is the leading not-for-profit construction-based social enterprise in Sudbury. They provide training, employment and affordable housing to meet the growing needs of the community’s most vulnerable and at-risk populations. Learn how they got started, and what they are up to now.

Community Benefits Agreements
Monday, February 13, 10 – 11:30 am
Rosemarie Powell, Toronto Community Benefits Network (via Zoom)

Community Benefits Agreements ensure construction, infrastructure and development projects meet specific social value outcomes, such as hiring, training, or procurement. These legally enforced agreements make sure projects enhance social, cultural, environmental, and economic opportunities for the community.