Session by Stream:

Aboriginal Community Building & Partnerships Energy Management Governance Housing Managment Maintenance & Asset Management New Development Policy & Vision Rural Seniors' Housing Supportive Housing Tenants

Aboriginal

301 – Aboriginal housing planning session

Join us for an interactive session on the future of urban Aboriginal non-profit housing in Canada. A series of presentations from urban Aboriginal housing providers will address challenges related to the end of operating agreements and next steps going forward. There will be the opportunity for around-the-room discussion where all providers are encouraged to share their experiences and lessons learned.

Presenters:

Marc Maracle, Executive Director, Gignul Non-Profit Housing
Don McBain, Executive Director, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Corporation
Cheryl Sutherland, Manager and Tenant Counselor, S.U.N. Housing Inc.
Kevin A. Albers, CPA, CGA, CAFM, Chief Executive Officer, M’akola Group of Societies
Valerie Williams, Manager and Tenant Counsellor, Urban Native Homes Inc.

Facilitators:

Jo Ferris-Davies, Director, Member Services, ONPHA
Wyndham Bettencourt-McCarthy, Coordinator, Policy & Research, ONPHA

Bus tour 2 – Aboriginal community tour

Urban Aboriginal communities have grown rapidly over the past 10 years and the number of programs and services have expanded as well. Visit an 11-unit seniors building called Madawan Lodge where all tenants live independently, share access to amenities and enjoy a common room for socializing, craft circles and other cultural gatherings. From there, the tour will stop at a newly expanded health facility called the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health. Experience the building’s array of programs and services for the Aboriginal community and its outstanding architecture.

The tour concludes at a new project called Madawan Place, a 28-unit apartment building with features such as radiant floor heating, individual tankless hot water heaters in each unit, a “Molok” in-ground waste collection system and a common room for meetings and gatherings.

Facilitator:

Delores Peltier-Corkey, Tenant Relations Officer, Gignul Non Profit Housing Corporation

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Community Building & Partnerships

107 – Emerging research in affordable housing: secondary suites

With over 165,000 households across Ontario waiting for affordable housing, Ontario’s municipalities are struggling with high demand and inadequate funding from the federal and provincial governments. One possible solution: secondary suites. Adding suites to existing housing can create more units with modest rents, alleviating pressure on waiting lists – but this straightforward option is actually quite complex. In this session, graduate students will present their research on secondary suites and how this initiative can help meet current housing goals.

Presenters:

Dilys Huang, Masters student, School of Urban and Regional Planning at Queen’s University
Jacob Bolduc, Masters student, School of Urban and Regional Planning at Queen’s University
(Moderator) Dr. Patricia Sterich, Adjunct Professor, School of Urban and Regional Planning, Queen's University

302 – Ten-year housing and homeless plans: How communities created their own housing solutions

Now that all service managers have completed their 10-year housing and homelessness plans, join us for a panel discussion featuring some of the sector’s leading consultants who helped develop those plans. You'll hear about plan outcomes, challenges in getting to outcomes and some of the unique approaches being taken by service managers to create local solutions to local housing issues.

Presenters:

Christine Pacini, Partner, SHS Consulting
Toni Farley, Consultant, Toni Farley & Associates
Tim Welch, President, Tim Welch Consulting Inc.
Iain De Jong, President and CEO, OrgCode Consulting Inc.
(Moderator) Sharad Kerur, Executive Director, ONPHA

401 – Telling your story through the media

The news media is a powerful force in shaping public perceptions. It’s also an effective conduit to tenants and decision makers. As people get news from an increasing number of sources faster than ever, how can you tell your organization’s story? Learn how to use proactive approaches to get your message out, counter negative media coverage, and build public support through TV, radio, print, web, community, and ethnic media. This interactive workshop will include practical tools useful for housing organizations of all sizes.

Presenters:

Bruce Malloch, Director, Strategic Communications, Toronto Community Housing
Sara Goldvine, Manager, Media Relations and Issues Management, Toronto Community Housing
(Moderator) John Wilson, Manager, Strategy and Advocacy (Acting), ONPHA

402 – Collaborating for Change: The GTA Housing Action Lab

Learn how the GTA Housing Action Lab, a cross-sectorial collaborative, is addressing challenges to create a more sustainable and affordable housing system for the Greater Toronto Area. Through a hands-on visioning exercise, you will explore how to bring key players together to support the sustainability and affordability of housing, ensuring residents of all incomes have the chance to live in a suitable home.

Presenters:

Robert Plitt, Senior Program Designer, Evergreen CityWorks
Noah Zon, Senior Policy Associate, Mowat Centre
John Purkis, Senior Associate, The Natural Step
(Moderator) Sean Gadon, Director, Affordable Housing Office, City of Toronto

411 – Social enterprises: Employment innovation that works

Learn about two organizations helping people overcome barriers to employment. Rideau Social Enterprises, run by the John Howard Society, is a program that connects people with past involvement in the criminal justice system with employment in extermination and asbestos removal. The Causeway Works Centre, in partnership with Ottawa Community Housing, provides people with disabilities with job opportunities in landscaping. Come away with inspiration and ideas to make positive changes in your own community.

Presenters:

Brian Gilligan, Executive Director, Community Development, Ottawa Community Housing
Doug Pawson, Executive Director, The Centre for Innovative Social Enterprise Development
Rhea Wootton, Director of Administration, John Howard Society of Ottawa
(Moderator) Cindi Zwicker, Community Housing Support Worker, Kawartha Lakes - Haliburton Housing Corporation

510 – Making votes count where we live: Increasing voter engagement for people with low incomes

The City for All Women Initiative and the Coalition of Community Health and Resource Centres are undertaking a three-year project to increase voter turnout in low-income neighbourhoods and among people living in poverty. The project seeks to build the capacity of women leaders, community developers, and community partners to engage residents where they live using strategies and raising issues identified by residents and project partners. Hear about the lessons they learned and their successes during this year’s municipal election.

Tong Zhao-Ansari, Project Co-ordinator, Making Votes Count Where We Live
Khadijah Khan-Potter, Civic Engagement Ambassador, Making Votes Count Where We Live
(Moderator) Meg McCallum, Manager, Membership and Communications, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation

601 – Working with your local municipality

It takes a village to build affordable housing—and your local municipality plays an important role. At this session, you will learn about the different supports and incentives that municipalities can offer to help affordable housing become a reality. You will hear from three different players in the development process: a local housing department, a housing provider, and a development consultant.

Presenters:

Graeme Hussey, Development Manager, CCOC & President, CAHDCO
Susan Bacque, Manager, Housing Division, City of Peterborough
Tim Welch, President, Tim Welch Consulting Inc.
(Moderator) Wyndham Bettencourt-McCarthy, Coordinator, Policy & Research

805 – Making partnerships work

Learn how the City of London uses partnerships between not-for-profit organizations and the private sector to increase the city’s stock of affordable housing units. This session will explore how changes to the request for proposals process encouraged new partnerships, as well as tips for funding and development activities.

Presenter:

Louise Stevens, Director, Municipal Housing, City of London Housing Division

Co-presented by: CMHC

806 – Helping new tenants integrate into their community

Learn how you can ensure successful tenancies by helping tenants feel safe and engaged in their communities. The Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa will bring together partners from Ottawa’s homeless and housing community to discuss successful strategies for empowering individuals as they move from homelessness and/or precarious living to housing.

Presenters:

Chelsey Karemangingo, Case manager, Ottawa Salus
Brian Gilligan, Executive director, Community Development, Ottawa Community Housing
Terrie Meehan, Board member, The Alliance to End Homeless Ottawa
(Moderator) Erin Dej, PhD Candidate (ABD), Department of Criminology, University of Ottawa

Bus tour 3 – Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and the City of Ottawa, Housing Services Branch: Innovative non-profit housing

Ride along with us on a three-hour bus tour of some of Ottawa’s newest affordable housing communities while taking in the scenic beauty of the nation’s capital. Your hosts, CMHC and City of Ottawa, Housing Services Branch will provide a running commentary on housing projects along the tour route that have made an impact on the community. The bus will stop for walking tours at three locations. Come along and enjoy the ride!

Facilitator:

Vivian Chih, Corporate Representative, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation andCity of Ottawa Housing Services Branch

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Energy Management

101 – Can the science of sustainability be fun?

You want to reduce your building’s utility consumption, but how can you convince residents to participate in your sustainability programs? By making the science of sustainability fun and engaging! Matt Miller from Yardi Systems Inc. will share sustainability programs that are on the market and effective strategies to engage your residents in new, fun, and creative ways.

Presenter:

Matt Miller, Industry Principal, Energy Solutions, Yardi Systems, Inc.

210 – Real cases in sustainable and energy-efficient housing

Technology is a key part of making housing energy efficient and sustainable. Join us for an in-depth and entertaining look at the latest sustainability technologies. You’ll learn more about CMHC’s Green Renovator guide and see the results of Ottawa Community Housing’s energy efficiency retrofits. Improve your understanding of sustainable housing by complementing the theory with practical results.

Presenters:

Dan Dicaire, Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Officer, Ottawa Community Housing
Ken Ruest, Senior Researcher, Sustainable Housing, Policy and Research, CMHC
(Moderator) Angelina Ritacco, Senior Consultant, Communications and Marketing, CMHC

Co-presented by: CMHC

402 – Collaborating for Change: The GTA Housing Action Lab

Learn how the GTA Housing Action Lab, a cross-sectorial collaborative, is addressing challenges to create a more sustainable and affordable housing system for the Greater Toronto Area. Through a hands-on visioning exercise, you will explore how to bring key players together to support the sustainability and affordability of housing, ensuring residents of all incomes have the chance to live in a suitable home.

Presenters:

Robert Plitt, Senior Program Designer, Evergreen CityWorks
Noah Zon, Senior Policy Associate, Mowat Centre
John Purkis, Senior Associate, The Natural Step
(Moderator) Sean Gadon, Director, Affordable Housing Office, City of Toronto

501 – The dirty pieces of going green

How can you fight climate change while improving your bottom line operating performance? By rolling up your sleeves and getting dirty with simple waste management initiatives. Our panel of experts will show you how to go beyond reducing inputs and start focusing on outputs such as complex garbage, sewer waste, and storm water management. Learn how you can confront the limits of our infrastructure and improve living conditions for your tenants.

Presenters:

Leanna Falkenhagen, Manager, Maintenance Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
David Boushey, Maintenance Supervisor – Building Services, Maintenance Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
Natalia Snajdr, Sustainability Facilitator, Membership and Communications Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
(Moderator) Candace Marston, Manager, Development Services, Housing Services Branch, Community and Health Services Department, the Regional Municipality of York

511 – Incentive programs and energy management tools to reduce operating costs

Union Gas understands that to stay healthy, non-profit housing providers need to closely monitor energy use, invest in energy efficiency, and take advantage of valuable rebates and incentives. As an energy efficiency partner, Union Gas is committed to helping housing providers make positive environmental choices, conserve energy, and save money. In this session we will identify new opportunities and showcase success stories, as well as provide information

Presenter:

Steve Garvin, Union Gas Commercial Account Manager

610 – Energy management: A case study approach

Learn how an affordable housing provider took steps to improve its operation’s energy efficiency. This session will explore how and why the provider decided to get involved in Enbridge’s Energy Management Program and will examine the cost-benefit analyses. You will come away with a clear understanding of how you can take advantage of Enbridge’s program and how it generates cost and energy savings.

Presenter:

Erika Lontoc, Manager of Residential and New Construction Programs, Enbridge

Bus tour 1 – Beaver Barracks

See how Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation is using the principles of Community-Based Social Marketing to engage its tenants, promote green lifestyles and ensure ongoing environmental sustainability in its operations.

Facilitator:

Meg McCallum, Manager, Membership and Communications Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
Ray Sullivan, Executive Director, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
Natalia Snajdr, Sustainability Facilitator, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation

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Governance

102 – Business continuity and contingency planning for housing providers

Is your organization prepared for the unexpected? In this workshop, risk management specialists will introduce a contingency planning toolkit that can help you prepare for and manage disasters, as well as protect your tenants and property. You will also learn how to identify and address business continuity exposures to limit the likelihood of disruption.

Presenter:

Kevin Gordon, Business Continuity Consultant, Marsh Risk Consulting—Canadian Practice Leader
(Moderator) Brian Laur, Director of Insurance Services, Housing Services Corporation

Co-presented by: Housing Services Corporation

110 – The role of a Commissioner of Housing Equity
*110 has been combined with 602

111 – Boards and legal liability: What every board member should know

The operations of non-profit housing corporations are complex and fraught with legal risks. Board members may face legal actions brought on by tenants, employees, creditors and government authorities. This presentation will provide an outline of important legal issues that directors and managers of non-profit housing corporations face. Learn how to manage legal risk and what proactive measures you can take to better protect yourself and your corporation.

Presenter:

Reagan Ruslim, BBA, CPA, CA, CPA (N.H.), CGMA, CHRP, LL.B, LL.M, Dunsmore Wearing LLP
(Moderator) Dietrich Sider, Program Administrator, City of Ottawa

204 – The story of the OCH Foundation for Healthy Communities

Are you thinking of creating a charitable foundation for your organization? Learn how Ontario’s second largest social housing provider, Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (OHC) did just that. The presenters will take you through all of the steps from building a board of directors, acquiring charitable status and getting through that critical first year of operations.

Presenter:

Wendy Mitchel, Executive Director, OCH Foundation for Healthy Communities

211 – Human resources fundamentals

This presentation will cover the unique employment law risks faced by housing providers and is designed for directors and managers without in-house human resources expertise. The session will cover practical subjects like hours of work and overtime as well as more complex issues like causal termination and the difference between temporary and permanent layoffs. Related legislation such as the Employment Standards Act, Human Rights Code and the Occupational Health and Safety Act will be explained in context.

Presenter:

Ross Dunsmore, Partner, Dunsmore Wearing LLP
(Moderator) Pamela Spencer, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Acting VP, HR, Toronto Community Housing

309 – Staff succession planning for small and rural providers

Tight budgets and limited access to a large pool of candidates make succession planning challenging for small and rural providers. In this session, you will hear a successful case study, share strategies and ideas, and take away tips on how to implement a staff succession process in your organization.

Presenters:

Sandra Weston, (former) Administrator at Loughborough Housing and ONPHA Mentor
Jon McCurry, Administrator, EFBC Non Profit Housing Corporation
(Moderator) Susan Easton, Coordinator, Education Services, ONPHA

401 – Telling your story through the media

The news media is a powerful force in shaping public perceptions. It’s also an effective conduit to tenants and decision makers. As people get news from an increasing number of sources faster than ever, how can you tell your organization’s story? Learn how to use proactive approaches to get your message out, counter negative media coverage, and build public support through TV, radio, print, web, community, and ethnic media. This interactive workshop will include practical tools useful for housing organizations of all sizes.

Presenters:

Bruce Malloch, Director, Strategic Communications, Toronto Community Housing
Sara Goldvine, Manager, Media Relations and Issues Management, Toronto Community Housing
(Moderator) John Wilson, Manager, Strategy and Advocacy (Acting), ONPHA

409 – Board governance: The big 4

As a director, you are responsible for the financial and legal health of your organization. It is your job to safeguard a public asset to provide safe and affordable housing in your community, now and into the future. Explore strategies and resources to help you plan strategically, manage finances, incorporate good policies and ensure operational activities are performed correctly and on time.

Presenter:

Susan Easton, Coordinator, Education Services, ONPHA

502 – Small shop fundraising

You don’t need a big team for a big impact. Fundraising and resource development is often left in the hands of very small groups or individuals. This workshop will provide you with tricks and tips to work smart with few resources. Discover the fundamentals of building a strong case for support and leveraging board members, staff and contacts to fundraise for your organization. You’ll find you have far more fundraising resources than you realized!

Presenter:

Wendy Mitchell, Executive Director, OCH Foundation for Healthy Communities

801 – Ethics workshop for boards

A strong code of ethics can guide an organization in times of uncertainty and foster a healthy morale among staff and stakeholders. This workshop will highlight the principles of ethics and help board members navigate difficult ethical situations by looking at how personal and business principles of ethics relate to decision making. You will have ample opportunity to discuss ethical issues using case examples and will acquire tools to provide direction and guidance to your organization.

Presenter:

Susan Easton, Coordinator, Education Services, ONPHA

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Housing Management

102 – Business continuity and contingency planning for housing providers

Is your organization prepared for the unexpected? In this workshop, risk management specialists will introduce a contingency planning toolkit that can help you prepare for and manage disasters, as well as protect your tenants and property. You will also learn how to identify and address business continuity exposures to limit the likelihood of disruption.

Presenter:

Kevin Gordon, Business Continuity Consultant, Marsh Risk Consulting—Canadian Practice Leader
(Moderator) Brian Laur, Director of Insurance Services, Housing Services Corporation

Co-presented by: Housing Services Corporation

103 – Approaches to roaches

Cockroaches are a common household pest and are notorious for being one of the most resilient. Maintenance staff and housing managers will benefit from this informative session on pest management. Learn how cockroaches behave and why they are a problem, discover current best practices in dealing with infestations and the most effective treatment options.

Presenter:

Richard Grotsch, Manager, Integrated Pest Management, Toronto Community Housing Community Health Unit

104 – Reviewing RGI decisions

Are you responsible for making RGI decisions? Whether you work with an external or internal review panel, this session will share best practices for preparing for a review. We’ll help you understand what to expect during a review and tell you what information must be included.

Presenters:

Tammy Morasse-Heming, Senior Policy Analyst, City of Hamilton
(Moderator) Jenn St. Louis, Manager, Member Services (Acting), ONPHA

110 – The role of a Commissioner of Housing Equity
*110 has been combined with 602

202 – Up your game: Working with tenants to improve your services

Good customer service is the linchpin for creating positive relationships with tenants and applicants, so it’s important that you know how your staff are doing. This session will outline strategies that landlords can use to improve their customer service by engaging their tenants including introduction and exit service surveys, developing a “resident/tenant mystery shopping” system and the use of a resident audit committee.

Presenters:

Carol Barber, Managing Agent for Timmins Non-Profit Housing Corp. and Program Manager, CDSSAB Housing Services
Brenda Osborne, CEO, City Housing Hamilton
Aaron Lynes, Operations Manager, Victoria Park Community Homes Inc.
Kim Weiman, Managing Director, Community Housing Management Network
Jeff Menzies, Garden Facilitator, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
(Moderator) Lisa Oliveira, Manager, Research Mobilization, Housing Services Corporation

206 – The ups and downs of quarterly reporting

When a tenant receiving RGI subsidies has a fluctuating income, it is not just about the rules. It’s also about asking the right questions and using your discretion. Using hands-on exercises, delegates will learn about verifying incomes that fluctuate, averaging income, quarterly reporting, implementing changes and handling retroactive changes.

Presenter:

Roberta Jagoe, Policy Analyst, Region of Durham's Housing Services Division
(Moderator) Pam Page, Coordinator, Education Services, ONPHA

207 – Hoarding: Working together for solutions

Recognizing and dealing with compulsive hording requires an understanding of both the risks it creates and the factors that underlie the behavior. Our presenter will give you the safety and mental health support perspective and talk about a unique partnership in London, Ontario. You will learn effective strategies for dealing with hoarding situations and the importance of responding as a community.

Presenters:

James Hind, Fire Prevention Inspector, London Fire Department
(Moderator) Jenn St. Louis, Manager, Member Services, ONPHA

208 – The pros and cons of mediated agreements

A mediated agreement can be a useful tool for landlords in resolving disputes with tenants. This information-packed session will include an overview of the Landlord and Tenant Board’s mediation process and tips on when to enter into a mediated agreement and what to include.

Presenter:

Laura Clark, Lawyer, Ottawa Community Housing

211 – Human resources fundamentals

This presentation will cover the unique employment law risks faced by housing providers and is designed for directors and managers without in-house human resources expertise. The session will cover practical subjects like hours of work and overtime as well as more complex issues like causal termination and the difference between temporary and permanent layoffs. Related legislation such as the Employment Standards Act, Human Rights Code and the Occupational Health and Safety Act will be explained in context.

Presenter:

Ross Dunsmore, Partner, Dunsmore Wearing LLP
(Moderator) Pamela Spencer, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Acting VP, HR, Toronto Community Housing

212 – The duty to accommodate: A primer

Is your organization aware of its obligations under the Human Rights Code? All housing providers should have a clear understanding of the duty to accommodate and the risks of failing to do so. The presenters will walk delegates through the accommodation process using a series of case studies.

Presenter:

Celia Chandler, Lawyer, Iler Campbell LLP
Lauren Blumas, Lawyer, Iler Campbell LLP
(moderator) Patti Bell, Director of Operations, Durham Region Non-Profit Housing Corporation

*cancelled 303 – They're back: Update on the Fed’s consultation on tax exemptions for non-profits

The Federal Government has announced that it intends to review tax exemptions to non-profit organizations. In its 2014 budget, the Government cited concerns about non-profit organizations earning and distributing profits in ways that are inconsistent with their mandates. A change to the tax exemptions may impact the affordable housing sector’s ability to leverage non-rental income to improve their operations. Join us to learn the status of the Government’s review and what it could mean for your organization.

304 – Thinking beyond the box: Building complete communities

How do optimized building spaces improve quality of life for tenants in affordable housing? Members of the Ontario Association of Architects will provide their perspectives on optimizing building spaces and how this concept can address the physical needs of residents. The topics will include meeting accessibility standards, design for seniors and creating flexible spaces. You will also learn how to use design as part of the solution to address the funding crisis in affordable housing.

Presenters:

Les Klein, Principal and Co-Founder, Quadrangle Architects
Danny Bartman, Associate, LGA Architectural Partners
Sheena Sharp, Principal, Coolearth Architecture
(Moderator) Rick Choja, President, London Polonia Towers Inc.

305 – Hoarding: Getting to the bottom of your legal responsibilities

You know that hoarding behaviour has a negative impact on the health and well-being of your tenants. But how does it impact housing managers? Get a refresher on your legal liabilities and responsibilities when you discover a tenant who hoards. This session will explore important legal concerns such as meeting the duty to accommodate, fire safety, pest control, privacy concerns and evictions.

Presenters:

Celia Chandler, Lawyer, Iler Campbell LLP
Lauren Blumas, Lawyer, Iler Campbell LLP
(Moderator) Lori-Anne Gagne, Executive Director, Victoria Park Community Homes Inc.

311 – 20 great ideas

How many great ideas can ONPHA members fit into one hour? Come prepared with your great idea that you can share in two minutes. Bring your pen and notepad to ensure you capture everything at this rapid-fire session of innovations, solutions and top tips for success. Submissions will be accepted in advance.

Facilitator:

Christina Friend-Johnston, Coordinator, Communications and Marketing, ONPHA

403 – To pursue or not to pursue income: That is the question

Tenants who receive RGI subsidies may lose their eligibility for assistance if they fail to obtain specific types of income. Gain a solid understanding of the types of income you can request your tenants to pursue, how to help them, and a standard for “reasonable effort” by a tenant. Come prepared with questions.

Presenter:

Roberta Jagoe, Policy Analyst, Region of Durham's Housing Services Division
(Moderator) Pam Page, Coordinator, Education Services, ONPHA

404 – Eviction prevention: Finding common ground

No one wants to see tenants lose their home. Learn how you can prevent eviction using the City of Hamilton’s Eviction Prevention Best Practices Toolkit. Get an inside look at how the City of Hamilton worked with community agencies and social housing providers to create the toolkit, hear about the practical strategies they developed on eviction prevention and learn how to use the resources in the toolkit in everyday interactions with tenants.

Presenters:

Tammy Morasse-Heming, Senior Policy Analyst, City of Hamilton
Grace Baldwin, Program Manager, Good Shepherd Family Centre (Hamilton)
(Moderator) Nick Savino, Acting Director, Housing Operations, Housing York Inc.

410 – Money and your quality of life: A fresh look at money management

How can you achieve the peace of mind that comes from taking control of your finances? A budget counsellor will show you effective ways to create and manage a family budget. You will gain the knowledge and tools you need to make better financial choices and achieve a sense of stability.

Presenter:

François Leblanc, Budget Counsellor, Entraide Budgetaire

504 – Assisting seniors in housing

As Ontarians age, more and more seniors will need assistance to live independently. Join our panel of experts for an interactive discussion and acquire the tools you need to ensure your tenants can live safely and comfortably as they age.

Presenters:

Glenda Owens, Director of Care Co-ordination, Champlain CCAC
Matt Bowen, Manager, Tenant Engagement and Support Services, CityHousing Hamilton
Lauren Blumas, Lawyer, Iler Campbell LLP
(Moderator) Leah Davis, Administrator, Quinte's Isle Non-Profit Housing Corporation

507 – Real estate banking 101

Is your organization interested in leveraging its assets? Can you afford to expand? Learning how to speak the language of bankers and realtors can open up a new world of opportunities. This session will provide an overview of the real estate process from financing to CMHC mortgage insurance. After this session, you will be well-prepared to enter the world of cap rates and debt service ratios.

Presenters:

Darryl Bellwood, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Financing, First National Financial LP
Angela Roy, Senior Financing Consultant, CMHC
Janet Shim, Program Manager, Refinancing Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada
Randy Harris, Financial Consultant, Cooperative Housing Federation of Canada
(Moderator) Graeme Hussey, Development Manager, CCOC & President, CAHDCO

509 – When resources are thin, technology can help fill the gap

Can smaller housing organizations benefit from technology? Learn about solutions that can help you provide better service to tenants, become more economically efficient, and keep your operating costs down. You will discover simple things you can do with a lot of freely-available or low-cost technology tools made especially to help smaller organizations.

Presenter:

Steven Dow, Consultant, Value Added Systems Inc.

602 – Dealing with difficult tenancies
*110 has now been combined with 602

Building on this year’s Regional Meeting module on Working with Difficult Tenants, this workshop will review the basics of mental health, including signs and symptoms of illness, your responsibilities as a landlord under the Human Rights Code, and the duty to accommodate. Cynthia Summers will add her experience as the Commissioner of Housing Equity at Toronto Community Housing, where she works with vulnerable tenants at risk of eviction. Take away examples of successful eviction prevention and an understanding of why eviction prevention is important.

Presenters:

Cynthia Summers, Commissioner of Housing Equity, Toronto Community Housing
Melanie Martin, Early Resolution Officer, Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity
Jenn St. Louis, Manager, Member Services (Acting), ONPHA
(Moderator) Keith Hambly, Executive Director, Fife House

606 – Capital reserve planning: Using the online tool

You know your property will eventually need major repairs, but do you know when they will be required and how much they will cost? Learn about capital replacement planning and how it can benefit your housing units. Our experts will provide a brief overview of CMHC’s free capital replacement planning tool and perform a quick demonstration using the Capital Replacement Planning Simplified Spreadsheet. They will offer useful tips on building condition assessments, reserve fund planning, capital repairs, replacement, and retrofits.

Presenter:

Joel Allaert, Senior Program Analyst, CMHC
Silvio Plescia, Senior Researcher, CMHC
Janet Sikiric, Senior Advisor, CMHC Affordable Housing Centre

Co-presented with: CMHC

608 – Making technology work for you

Transitioning to a new property management software system can be a long and complicated process. Join a panel of housing providers to learn how they adopted new property management tools. Discussion topics will include identifying goals for a new system, the purchasing process, how they prepared for implementation and lessons learned.

Presenters:

Ann Smith, Executive Director, Gloucester Housing Corporation
Cliff Youdale, Executive Director of Asset Management Services, Ottawa Community Housing
Gabriel Lawrence, Finance Manager, Ecuhome Corporation
(Moderator) Brenda Osborne, CEO, CityHousing Hamilton

609 – Hoarding: Voices from frontline workers

Hear how one supportive housing provider has developed strategies for ongoing work with tenants who hoard. Options Bytown, a non-profit housing provider in Ottawa, has committed to building in-house expertise, fostering a culture of flexibility, and developing an organization strategy. Jennifer Laewen, Manager of Tenant Services, along with case managers, will talk about the process of developing a successful hoarding strategy, the ups and downs they experienced and examples of success stories. Learn from others and share your own case studies in this interactive workshop.

Presenters:

Mark Edwards, Case Manager, Options Bytown Non-Profit Housing Corporation
Marie Gentes, Case Manager, Options Bytown Non-Profit Housing Corporation
Jennifer Laewen, Manager of Tenant Services, Options Bytown Non-Profit Housing Corporation
Sarah Overvelde, Case Manager, Options Bytown Non-Profit Housing Corporation

802 – Smoke-free buildings: Challenges and solutions

Many housing providers have successfully implemented non-smoking clauses in their buildings and many others are in the process of implementing them. This session explores challenges faced in enforcing and phasing in these policies as well as a question and answer session where you can discuss your own challenges.

Presenters:

Donna Pettey, Director of Operations, Canadian Mental Health Association Ottawa Branch
Debbie Barton, Manager – Rental Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
Andrew Noble, Policy Analyst, Non-Smokers' Rights Association
(Moderator) Angela Cooke, VP Housing and Community Supports, WoodGreen Community Housing Inc.

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Maintenance & Asset Management

103 – Approaches to roaches

Cockroaches are a common household pest and are notorious for being one of the most resilient. Maintenance staff and housing managers will benefit from this informative session on pest management. Learn how cockroaches behave and why they are a problem, discover current best practices in dealing with infestations and the most effective treatment options.

Presenter:

Richard Grotsch, Manager, Integrated Pest Management, Toronto Community Housing Community Health Unit

105 – Accessibility: Planning for concrete changes

Is your building as accessible as you think it is? As tenants age, housing providers must anticipate and plan for their changing accessibility needs. Learn how to see your building through the eyes of a person with a disability, practical tools for conducting an accessibility audit and where to find products and services.

Presenters:

Bob Topping, President, Designable Environments
Jacqueline Daley, Accessibility Program Manager, Toronto Community Housing
(Moderator) Don Tribe, Supervisor, Maintenance, The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board

501 – The dirty pieces of going green

How can you fight climate change while improving your bottom line operating performance? By rolling up your sleeves and getting dirty with simple waste management initiatives. Our panel of experts will show you how to go beyond reducing inputs and start focusing on outputs such as complex garbage, sewer waste, and storm water management. Learn how you can confront the limits of our infrastructure and improve living conditions for your tenants.

Presenters:

Leanna Falkenhagen, Manager, Maintenance Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
David Boushey, Maintenance Supervisor – Building Services, Maintenance Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
Natalia Snajdr, Sustainability Facilitator, Membership and Communications Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
(Moderator) Candace Marston, Manager, Development Services, Housing Services Branch, Community and Health Services Department, the Regional Municipality of York

606 – Capital reserve planning: Using the online tool

You know your property will eventually need major repairs, but do you know when they will be required and how much they will cost? Learn about capital replacement planning and how it can benefit your housing units. Our experts will provide a brief overview of CMHC’s free capital replacement planning tool and perform a quick demonstration using the Capital Replacement Planning Simplified Spreadsheet. They will offer useful tips on building condition assessments, reserve fund planning, capital repairs, replacement, and retrofits.

Presenter:

Joel Allaert, Senior Program Analyst, CMHC
Silvio Plescia, Senior Researcher, CMHC
Janet Sikiric, Senior Advisor, CMHC Affordable Housing Centre

Co-presented with: CMHC

701 – Accessibility and visitability by design

People who inhabit non-profit housing come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from infants to seniors, with various, ever-changing abilities and skills. Meet with CMHC’s Jamie Shipley to review the importance of accessibility and visitability in building design. Learn why homes that reflect the principles of universal design are safer and more accommodating to the diverse range of ages and abilities of people who live in and visit these homes.

Presenter:

Jamie Shipley, Senior Research Consultant, CMHC

Co-presented with: CMHC

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New Development

109 – Making magic: When impact investing meets affordable housing

With government funding for new affordable housing dwindling, "impact investing"-- investing to generate social and environmental impacts alongside a financial return--may help make up the shortfall. This workshop will explore the basics of impact investing, how municipalities are using it to support affordable housing, and how you can take advantage of this opportunity.

Presenters:

John Fox, Partner, Robins Appleby LLP
Christine Pacini, Partner, SHS Consulting
Norm Tasevski, Co-Founder and Partner, Purpose Capital
(Moderator) Nancy Singer, Executive Director, Kehilla Residential Programme

210 – Real cases in sustainable and energy-efficient housing

Technology is a key part of making housing energy efficient and sustainable. Join us for an in-depth and entertaining look at the latest sustainability technologies. You’ll learn more about CMHC’s Green Renovator guide and see the results of Ottawa Community Housing’s energy efficiency retrofits. Improve your understanding of sustainable housing by complementing the theory with practical results.

Presenters:

Dan Dicaire, Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Officer, Ottawa Community Housing
Ken Ruest, Senior Researcher, Sustainable Housing, Policy and Research, CMHC
(Moderator) Angelina Ritacco, Senior Consultant, Communications and Marketing, CMHC

Co-presented by: CMHC

304 – Thinking beyond the box: Building complete communities

How do optimized building spaces improve quality of life for tenants in affordable housing? Members of the Ontario Association of Architects will provide their perspectives on optimizing building spaces and how this concept can address the physical needs of residents. The topics will include meeting accessibility standards, design for seniors and creating flexible spaces. You will also learn how to use design as part of the solution to address the funding crisis in affordable housing.

Presenters:

Les Klein, Principal and Co-Founder, Quadrangle Architects
Danny Bartman, Associate, LGA Architectural Partners
Sheena Sharp, Principal, Coolearth Architecture
(Moderator) Rick Choja, President, London Polonia Towers Inc.

406 – Development innovations

Get inspired by three new affordable housing developments that are making innovative projects a reality: Ottawa Community Housing, Wigwamen Inc., and OCISO Non-Profit Housing Corporation. Learn about what opportunities were seized and what challenges were overcome to make positive changes in their communities.

Presenters:

Barron Meyerhoffer, Director of Planning and Engineering, Ottawa Community Housing
Peter Trotscha, Development Consultant, Sound Advice Consulting Co-operative Inc.
Angus Palmer, General Manager, Wigwamen Inc.
(Moderator) Ray Sullivan, Executive Director, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation

503 – How service managers are using housing development corporations to evolve community housing

The Housing Services Act has empowered local communities through their service managers to create local solutions to local housing issues. One of those solutions is to create municipal Housing Development Corporations (HDCs) to build new housing, better manage the associated costs and risks, and leverage existing assets. But there is more to it than just new housing. This session will explore what prompted three municipalities to create HDCs and the role those HDCs will play in the future.

Presenters:

Brian Marks, Director of Housing Services, District of Cochrane
Deb Schlichter, Director of Housing, Region of Waterloo Planning, Housing and Comm. Services
Louise Stevens, Director of Housing, City of London
(Moderator) Sharad Kerur, Executive Director, ONPHA

507 – Real estate banking 101

Is your organization interested in leveraging its assets? Can you afford to expand? Learning how to speak the language of bankers and realtors can open up a new world of opportunities. This session will provide an overview of the real estate process from financing to CMHC mortgage insurance. After this session, you will be well-prepared to enter the world of cap rates and debt service ratios.

Presenters:

Darryl Bellwood, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Financing, First National Financial LP
Angela Roy, Senior Financing Consultant, CMHC
Janet Shim, Program Manager, Refinancing Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada
Randy Harris, Financial Consultant, Cooperative Housing Federation of Canada
(Moderator) Graeme Hussey, Development Manager, CCOC & President, CAHDCO

601 – Working with your local municipality

It takes a village to build affordable housing—and your local municipality plays an important role. At this session, you will learn about the different supports and incentives that municipalities can offer to help affordable housing become a reality. You will hear from three different players in the development process: a local housing department, a housing provider, and a development consultant.

Presenters:

Graeme Hussey, Development Manager, CCOC & President, CAHDCO
Susan Bacque, Manager, Housing Division, City of Peterborough
Tim Welch, President, Tim Welch Consulting Inc.
(Moderator) Wyndham Bettencourt-McCarthy, Coordinator, Policy & Research

604 – Secondary suites: What do they mean for housing providers?

Secondary suites are emerging as an option for affordable housing across the province. SHS Consulting has worked with CMHC and various municipalities to develop research and policies that will help increase the stock of secondary suites in residential areas. This session will share innovations in the secondary suite concept such as linking rent supplement units and incentive programs as well as the partnerships between municipalities and providers that are essential for this affordable housing option to become a viable option for communities.

Presenters:

Jodi Ball, Principal, SHS Consulting
Sue Ritchie, Manager, Program Design and Development Unit, Region of Peel
Emily Irvine, Planner, Policy Planning Division, City of Mississauga

804 – Where's the money? The case for affordable housing trust funds

Communities across Ontario have plenty of smart people and good ideas when it comes to affordable and social housing – but if there’s no money at hand, then important projects can stumble and even fail. Many jurisdictions have affordable housing trust funds and there are good examples across Canada. This workshop will look at different North American housing funds and start a conversation about the role different levels of government, the community and the private sector can play in the creation of local housing trust funds.

Presenter:

Michael Shapcott, Long-time housing advocate and researcher

Co-presented by: Wellesley Institute

805 – Making partnerships work

Learn how the City of London uses partnerships between not-for-profit organizations and the private sector to increase the city’s stock of affordable housing units. This session will explore how changes to the request for proposals process encouraged new partnerships, as well as tips for funding and development activities.

Presenter:

Louise Stevens, Director, Municipal Housing, City of London Housing Division

Co-presented by: CMHC

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Policy & Vision

107 – Emerging research in affordable housing: secondary suites

With over 165,000 households across Ontario waiting for affordable housing, Ontario’s municipalities are struggling with high demand and inadequate funding from the federal and provincial governments. One possible solution: secondary suites. Adding suites to existing housing can create more units with modest rents, alleviating pressure on waiting lists – but this straightforward option is actually quite complex. In this session, graduate students will present their research on secondary suites and how this initiative can help meet current housing goals.

Presenters:

Dilys Huang, Masters student, School of Urban and Regional Planning at Queen’s University
Jacob Bolduc, Masters student, School of Urban and Regional Planning at Queen’s University
(Moderator) Dr. Patricia Sterich, Adjunct Professor, School of Urban and Regional Planning, Queen's University

108 – Bringing sectors together to improve public infrastructure

Community building has typically been a piecemeal effort with housing, transit, retail, and community facilities usually command their own separate processes. As well, municipalities have prepared housing and homelessness plans to address the crisis of inadequate and unaffordable housing. But the complexity of separate processes along with policy barriers hampers both the creation of new affordable housing and community building at the same time. In this workshop, we will present an overview of the major policy barriers that municipalities face in implementing their plans and explore how Community Benefit Agreements (a legal and binding agreement between developers and community groups) can advance the creating of affordable housing as well as tie those separate community building processes together.

Presenters:

Colette Murphy, Executive Director, Atkinson Charitable Foundation
Abra Adamo, Social and Policy researcher, University of Ottawa
(Moderator) Cliff Youdale, Executive Director, Asset Management, Ottawa Community Housing Corporation

109 – Making magic: When impact investing meets affordable housing

With government funding for new affordable housing dwindling, "impact investing"-- investing to generate social and environmental impacts alongside a financial return--may help make up the shortfall. This workshop will explore the basics of impact investing, how municipalities are using it to support affordable housing, and how you can take advantage of this opportunity.

Presenters:

John Fox, Partner, Robins Appleby LLP
Christine Pacini, Partner, SHS Consulting
Norm Tasevski, Co-Founder and Partner, Purpose Capital
(Moderator) Nancy Singer, Executive Director, Kehilla Residential Programme

204 – The story of the OCH Foundation for Healthy Communities

Are you thinking of creating a charitable foundation for your organization? Learn how Ontario’s second largest social housing provider, Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (OHC) did just that. The presenters will take you through all of the steps from building a board of directors, acquiring charitable status and getting through that critical first year of operations.

Presenter:

Wendy Mitchell, Executive Director, OCH Foundation for Healthy Communities

205 – Social media for beginners

Get started in social media with this introductory session. ONPHA’s social media lead will cover all the basics including commonly used platforms, online etiquette, and connecting with others through social media. You will learn best practices through case studies from non-profits and community groups using social media to engage with the public. This session will also offer brief overviews of the most popular platforms: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Tumblr, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Presenter:

Stephanie Butler, Coordinator, Communications and Marketing, ONPHA

302 – Ten-year housing and homeless plans: How communities created their own housing solutions

Now that all service managers have completed their 10-year housing and homelessness plans, join us for a panel discussion featuring some of the sector’s leading consultants who helped develop those plans. You'll hear about plan outcomes, challenges in getting to outcomes and some of the unique approaches being taken by service managers to create local solutions to local housing issues.

Presenters:

Christine Pacini, Partner, SHS Consulting
Toni Farley, Consultant, Toni Farley & Associates
Tim Welch, President, Tim Welch Consulting Inc.
Iain De Jong, President and CEO, OrgCode Consulting Inc.
(Moderator) Sharad Kerur, Executive Director, ONPHA

*cancelled 303 –They're back: Update on the Fed’s consultation on tax exemptions for non-profits

The Federal Government has announced that it intends to review tax exemptions to non-profit organizations. In its 2014 budget, the Government cited concerns about non-profit organizations earning and distributing profits in ways that are inconsistent with their mandates. A change to the tax exemptions may impact the affordable housing sector’s ability to leverage non-rental income to improve their operations. Join us to learn the status of the Government’s review and what it could mean for your organization.

306 – Empowering people with lived experiences to work in social services

Can we end homelessness through collaboration with people who have first-hand experience? Learn about the Fred Victor Centre's work as part of Change Toronto in developing a program to support people with lived experience of homelessness to work in social services. Hear about the outcomes of this project and receive your own toolkit to implement a similar program.

Presenter:

Mandy Ashton, Change Toronto Coordinator, Fred Victor Centre
Alejandra Ruiz Vargas, Streets to Homes Follow-up Worker, Fred Victor Centre

307 – Local priorities: Who should be first in line for affordable housing?

Despite long waiting lists for affordable housing across Ontario, most communities recognize the need to house the most vulnerable first. Join a panel of service managers from across the province as they share their experiences setting local priorities. Learn how they made their decisions around local priorities and what effect these decisions are having on the community.

Presenters:

Sherry White, Supervisor Access & Income Testing, Waterloo Community Housing Access Centre
Helen Aston, Supervisor, Housing Access, York Region
Stephen Arbuckle, Manager, Housing Services, City of Ottawa
Kelly Black, Social Housing Manager from District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board
(Moderator) Ishbel Solvason-Wiebe, Executive Director, The Social Housing Registry of Ottawa

312 – “Jambo” from Rooftops Canada! A conversation with Catherine Boucher from Johannesburg, South Africa

Catherine Boucher has been volunteering for Rooftops Canada since June 2014, working with South African housing providers under the direction of the National Association of South African Housing Organizations. She will be staying up past her bedtime to chat with us. You will be inspired by her experiences and insights on the South African affordable housing sector in this educational, fun and interactive session.

Presenter:

Catherine Boucher, Volunteer, Rooftops Canada, Past Executive Director of CCOC, Past President of ONPHA
(Moderator) Keith Hambly, Executive Director, Fife House

Co-presented with: Rooftops Canada

404 – Eviction prevention: Finding common ground

No one wants to see tenants lose their home. Learn how you can prevent eviction using the City of Hamilton’s Eviction Prevention Best Practices Toolkit. Get an inside look at how the City of Hamilton worked with community agencies and social housing providers to create the toolkit, hear about the practical strategies they developed on eviction prevention and learn how to use the resources in the toolkit in everyday interactions with tenants.

Presenters:

Tammy Morasse-Heming, Senior Policy Analyst, City of Hamilton
Grace Baldwin, Program Manager, Good Shepherd Family Centre (Hamilton)
(Moderator) Nick Savino, Acting Director, Housing Operations, Housing York Inc.

405 – Cross Canada check-in

Social housing providers across Canada face similar constraints and trends. Their responses to those constraints and trends, however, are unique and a product of the opportunities and challenges before them. Join us for a panel discussion about the affordable housing sectors in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario and the creative and innovative ways that housing providers are responding to local needs.

Presenters:

Shayne Ramsay, CEO, BC Housing Management Commission
Stéphane Giguère, CEO, Ottawa Community Housing
Greg Dewling, Executive Director, Capital Region Housing Corporation
(Moderator) Jim Steele, CEO, Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation

407 – Housing and homelessness plans: Where do you fit in?

Join us for an interactive session about the 10-year housing and homelessness plans for the City of Ottawa and the United Counties of Prescott and Russell. You will be briefed on the plans, how they were developed, and how they will be implemented. There will be an opportunity for you to share your processes with fellow participants in this informative session. (Presented in French, question and answer period in French and English)

Presenters:

Paul Lavigne, Strategic Initiatives Project Officer for the City of Ottawa Housing Services Branch
Alain Lacelle, Social Housing Supervisor, United Counties of Prescott and Russell
(Moderator) Emma Lander, Coordinator, Member Services, ONPHA

503 – How service managers are using housing development corporations to evolve community housing

The Housing Services Act has empowered local communities through their service managers to create local solutions to local housing issues. One of those solutions is to create municipal Housing Development Corporations (HDCs) to build new housing, better manage the associated costs and risks, and leverage existing assets. But there is more to it than just new housing. This session will explore what prompted three municipalities to create HDCs and the role those HDCs will play in the future.

Presenters:

Brian Marks, Director of Housing Services, District of Cochrane
Deb Schlichter, Director of Housing, Region of Waterloo Planning, Housing and Comm. Services
Louise Stevens, Director of Housing, City of London
(Moderator) Sharad Kerur, Executive Director, ONPHA

506 – Playing a bigger part: The LHINs’ role in the future of housing

The strong connections between housing and health are evident to many of us, yet a large gap has persisted between Ontario’s housing and health bureaucracies. This has recently begun to change, as LHINs embrace their role in supporting successful tenancies and acknowledge the value of housing as a tool to save money and improve service delivery. Join us and learn more about the LHINs’ vision of their role in housing and some of the exciting work that they’re doing in the Toronto and Ottawa areas.

Presenters:

Chantale LeClerc, Chief Executive Officer, Champlain Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
Kevin Barclay, Senior Health System Integration Specialist, Champlain LHIN
Vania Sakelaris, Senior Director, Health System Integration Design and Development, Toronto Central LHIN
Lori Lucier, Senior Consultant, Health System Integration, Design and Development
(Moderator) John Wilson, Manager, Strategy and Advocacy (Acting), ONPHA

508 – Housing in the Southern Hemisphere: An overview of Haven; Home, Safe

Are things really that different “down under?” Find out how Haven CEO Ken Marchingo leads a shelter and support facility in Victoria, Australia. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the respective strengths and differences of each of our countries’ systems and an opportunity to examine our expectations for the future.

Presenters:

Ken Marchingo, CEO of Haven; Home, Safe
(Moderator) Lisa Kotsopolous, General Manager, CIH Canada

Co-presented by: CIH Canada

603 – The future of housing: Thoughts from the CIH Canada Founders

The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Canada launched in 2013 with its first Founders Program designed for leaders in the housing sector. Transformational change was a key theme explored by this distinguished group of professionals throughout the program and as part of their final written reports. Join this panel of thought leaders as they discuss and reflect on how the housing industry is changing and the processes that are needed to enable housing organizations to address current and future operating environments.

Presenters:

Rob Cressman, Director, Social Housing, City of Toronto
Sylvia Patterson, General Manager Housing and Long Term Care, Regional Municipality of York
(Moderator) Jim Steele, CEO, Windsor Essex Community Housing Corporation

Co-presented by: CIH Canada

604 – Secondary suites: What do they mean for housing providers?

Secondary suites are emerging as an option for affordable housing across the province. SHS Consulting has worked with CMHC and various municipalities to develop research and policies that will help increase the stock of secondary suites in residential areas. This session will share innovations in the secondary suite concept such as linking rent supplement units and incentive programs as well as the partnerships between municipalities and providers that are essential for this affordable housing option to become a viable option for communities.

Presenters:

Jodi Ball, Principal, SHS Consulting
Sue Ritchie, Manager, Program Design and Development Unit, Region of Peel
Emily Irvine, Planner, Policy Planning Division, City of Mississauga
(Moderator) Christine Pacini, Partner, SHS Consulting

611 – Building a social media strategy

Are you using social media intentionally or because “everyone else is doing it?” This session will take your knowledge of social media to the next level by showing you key elements of a social media strategy. Learn how to choose the best tools, set measurable goals, create content, engage with stakeholders and evaluate progress. Expand your knowledge of the most common social media platforms and discover how they can improve your strategic objectives. This session assumes a good understanding of popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Presenter:

Stephanie Butler, Coordinator, Communications and Marketing, ONPHA

803 – Reimagining the wait list: Choice-based models and beyond!

They do it in Europe. The Ontario Government is for it. Tech solutions are at hand. So what’s stopping us from bringing a choice-based approach to Ontario’s coordinated access systems? Come learn about the challenges of converting traditional waiting lists to a system that allows municipalities to use different methods of getting people housed.

Presenters:

Rob Cressman, Director, Social Housing Unit, City of Toronto
Kylie Evans, Supervisor, Rent Supplement, Regional Municipality of Peel
Jayne Hartley, Supervisor, Housing Services, Halton Region
Andrew Balahura, Manager, Housing Services, Halton Region
(Moderator) Ishbel Solvason-Wiebe, Executive Director, The Social Housing Registry of Ottawa

804 – Where's the money? The case for affordable housing trust funds

Communities across Ontario have plenty of smart people and good ideas when it comes to affordable and social housing – but if there’s no money at hand, then important projects can stumble and even fail. Many jurisdictions have affordable housing trust funds and there are good examples across Canada. This workshop will look at different North American housing funds and start a conversation about the role different levels of government, the community and the private sector can play in the creation of local housing trust funds.

Presenter:

Michael Shapcott, Long-time housing advocate and researcher

Co-presented by: Wellesley Institute

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Rural

309 – Staff succession planning for small and rural providers

Tight budgets and limited access to a large pool of candidates make succession planning challenging for small and rural providers. In this session, you will hear a successful case study, share strategies and ideas, and take away tips on how to implement a staff succession process in your organization.

Presenters:

Sandra Weston, (former) Administrator at Loughborough Housing and ONPHA Mentor
Jon McCurry, Administrator, EFBC Non Profit Housing Corporation
(Moderator) Susan Easton, Coordinator, Education Services, ONPHA

407 – Housing and homelessness plans: Where do you fit in?

Join us for an interactive session about the 10-year housing and homelessness plans for the City of Ottawa and the United Counties of Prescott and Russell. You will be briefed on the plans, how they were developed, and how they will be implemented. There will be an opportunity for you to share your processes with fellow participants in this informative session. (Presented in French, question and answer period in French and English)

Presenters:

Paul Lavigne, Strategic Initiatives Project Officer for the City of Ottawa Housing Services Branch
Alain Lacelle, Social Housing Supervisor, United Counties of Prescott and Russell
(Moderator) Emma Lander, Coordinator, Member Services, ONPHA

509 – When resources are thin, technology can help fill the gap

Can smaller housing organizations benefit from technology? Learn about solutions that can help you provide better service to tenants, become more economically efficient, and keep your operating costs down. You will discover simple things you can do with a lot of freely-available or low-cost technology tools made especially to help smaller organizations.

Presenter:

Steven Dow, Consultant, Value Added Systems Inc.

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Seniors' Housing

*cancelled 201 – Encouraging seniors to garden organically

Come hear about a new program that brought the joy of gardening to seniors’ residences in Ottawa in 2014. Meet a couple of participants from the Senior Organic Gardeners program and hear their thoughts about the joy of planting, weeding and caring for those organic vegetables and herbs. Learn how you can start your organic gardening program for seniors and how to get your tenants involved.

Presenter:

Margaret Tourond-Townson, Ottawa-St. Lawrence-Outaouais Chapter, Canadian Organic Growers

209 – Housing options for people living with dementia

Helping people with dementia remain safe and independent in their communities poses unique challenges for caregivers and housing providers. SHS Consulting, which has collaborated with providers to find housing solutions for people with dementia, will present their key findings and case studies. Learn about different housing models and lessons learned from SHS’s partnerships, and hear form a provider who has developed housing for people with dementia.

Presenters:

Frances Morton-Chang, MHSc., PhD. (c), Principal at Morton-Chang Consulting
Amy Porteous, MHA, Vice President of Planning and Residential Programs, Bruyère Continuing Care
(Moderator) Glenda Lucas, BSL Principal, SHS Consulting

310 – Aging with HIV/AIDS: The complex care project

While people with HIV/AIDS are living longer than ever, the inevitable effects of aging means these survivors will develop complex needs for on-going care. Fife House has recently evaluated a unique multi-service pilot project with 10 partner agencies on supporting aging tenants with HIV/AIDS. Learn from their experiences with this timely and critical issue.

Presenter:

Michael Blair, Director of Residential Programs, Fife House

504 – Assisting seniors in housing

As Ontarians age, more and more seniors will need assistance to live independently. Join our panel of experts for an interactive discussion and acquire the tools you need to ensure your tenants can live safely and comfortably as they age.

Presenters:

Glenda Owens, Director of Care Co-ordination, Champlain CCAC
Matt Bowen, Manager, Tenant Engagement and Support Services, CityHousing Hamilton
Lauren Blumas, Lawyer, Iler Campbell LLP
(Moderator) Leah Davis, Administrator, Quinte's Isle Non-Profit Housing Corporation

605 – Innovative supports for seniors

How can you help your tenants with the challenges of aging? Learn about the unique approaches that two organizations are taking to address the complex health needs of aging residents. Hear how these programs came to be and the work they are doing to help seniors stay in their homes.

Presenters:

Ray Applebaum, Chief Executive Officer, Peel Senior Link
Alan Whittle, Director of Planning and Community Relations, Good Shepherd Non-Profit Homes (Hamilton)
(Moderator) M.S. Mwarigha, General Manager/Director, Peel Living

701 – Accessibility and visitability by design

People who inhabit non-profit housing come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from infants to seniors, with various, ever-changing abilities and skills. Meet with CMHC’s Jamie Shipley to review the importance of accessibility and visitability in building design. Learn why homes that reflect the principles of universal design are safer and more accommodating to the diverse range of ages and abilities of people who live in and visit these homes.

Presenter:

Jamie Shipley, Senior Research Consultant, CMHC

Co-presented with: CMHC

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Bus tour 2 – Aboriginal community tour

Urban Aboriginal communities have grown rapidly over the past 10 years and the number of programs and services have expanded as well. Visit an 11-unit seniors building called Madawan Lodge where all tenants live independently, share access to amenities and enjoy a common room for socializing, craft circles and other cultural gatherings. From there, the tour will stop at a newly expanded health facility called the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health. Experience the building’s array of programs and services for the Aboriginal community and its outstanding architecture.

The tour concludes at a new project called Madawan Place, a 28-unit apartment building with features such as radiant floor heating, individual tankless hot water heaters in each unit, a “Molok” in-ground waste collection system and a common room for meetings and gatherings.

Facilitator:

Delores Peltier-Corkey, Tenant Relations Officer, Gignul Non Profit Housing Corporation

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Supportive Housing

203 – A supportive housing case study: Managed Alcohol Program

The Managed Alcohol Program operated by the Shepherds of Good Hope helps chronically homeless people use alcohol more safely. The session will explore the program’s various perspectives, providing valuable insight into how one provider is working with tenants who have addictions.

Presenters:

Lindy Rosko, Senior Manager, Shepherds of Good Hope
Dale Pelletier, Program Manager, Shepherds of Good Hope
(Moderator)Debbie Barton, Manager, Rental Department, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation

306 – Empowering people with lived experiences to work in social services

Can we end homelessness through collaboration with people who have first-hand experience? Learn about the Fred Victor Centre's work as part of Change Toronto in developing a program to support people with lived experience of homelessness to work in social services. Hear about the outcomes of this project and receive your own toolkit to implement a similar program.

Presenter:

Mandy Ashton, Change Toronto Coordinator, Fred Victor Centre
Alejandra Ruiz Vargas, Streets to Homes Follow-up Worker, Fred Victor Centre

308 – Creating an integrated service delivery model: A case study

Serving clients with mental health and addiction issues requires an innovative approach. Learn how Frontenac Community Mental Health and Addiction Services designed a truly integrated service delivery model of support. Executive Director Victoria Huehn will guide you through the process and outcome of the model, how the organization collaborated with their LHIN for funding, the strategy for transitioning hospital residents to permanent housing and the model’s cost-benefit analysis.

Presenter:

Victoria Huehn MPA, CHE, Executive Director, Frontenac Community Mental Health and Addiction Services

310 – Aging with HIV/AIDS: The complex care project

While people with HIV/AIDS are living longer than ever, the inevitable effects of aging means these survivors will develop complex needs for on-going care. Fife House has recently evaluated a unique multi-service pilot project with 10 partner agencies on supporting aging tenants with HIV/AIDS. Learn from their experiences with this timely and critical issue.

Presenter:

Michael Blair, Director of Residential Programs, Fife House

408 – More than tenancy: Fostering tenants’ sense of belonging

Housing is about more than a successful tenancy – it’s also about helping tenants feel like they are a part of their community. Mainstay Housing, a 955-unit supportive housing organization, has been working with their tenants to help build strong connections to the community inside, and outside, their buildings. Find out how Mainstay staff and tenants are fostering tenants’ sense of community and belonging in this inspiring session.

Presenters:

Volletta Peters, Director, Tenant and Member Services, Mainstay Housing
Andrea Gutowski, Supportive Housing Worker, Mainstay Housing
Gord Singer, tenant representative, Mainstay Housing (Moderator) Kevin Bradley, General Manager, Ajax Municipal Housing Corporation

505 – The Bill of Rights for tenants in supportive housing

The Dream Team, a consumer survivors group, have completed a remarkable advocacy initiative with their Bill of Rights project. Join them to learn about the research and community collaboration that went into creating the bill, which aims to improve the lives of supportive housing tenants. The workshop will include a discussion on how the Bill of Rights can be adopted by other agencies, followed by a screening of the Dream Team-produced video: What is Supportive Housing?

Presenters:

The Dream Team: Dean Spence, Dawn D'Cruz, Isaac Coplan
(Moderator) Lorraine Bentley, Executive Director, Options Bytown Non-Profit Housing Corporation

506 – Playing a bigger part: The LHINs’ role in the future of housing

The strong connections between housing and health are evident to many of us, yet a large gap has persisted between Ontario’s housing and health bureaucracies. This has recently begun to change, as LHINs embrace their role in supporting successful tenancies and acknowledge the value of housing as a tool to save money and improve service delivery. Join us and learn more about the LHINs’ vision of their role in housing and some of the exciting work that they’re doing in the Toronto and Ottawa areas.

Presenters:

Chantale LeClerc, Chief Executive Officer, Champlain Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
Kevin Barclay, Senior Health System Integration Specialist, Champlain LHIN
Vania Sakelaris, Senior Director, Health System Integration Design and Development, Toronto Central LHIN
Lori Lucier, Senior Consultant, Health System Integration, Design and Development
(Moderator) John Wilson, Manager, Strategy and Advocacy (Acting), ONPHA

605 – Innovative supports for seniors

How can you help your tenants with the challenges of aging? Learn about the unique approaches that two organizations are taking to address the complex health needs of aging residents. Hear how these programs came to be and the work they are doing to help seniors stay in their homes.

Presenters:

Ray Applebaum, Chief Executive Officer, Peel Senior Link
Alan Whittle, Director of Planning and Community Relations, Good Shepherd Non-Profit Homes (Hamilton)
(Moderator) M.S. Mwarigha, General Manager/Director, Peel Living

702 – Topic potluck for supportive housing providers

Join your fellow housing professionals from across Ontario for a “discussion potluck” where all you need to bring are ideas and your appetite for a good discussion! This open, facilitated session is a great opportunity to network and learn from your colleagues in a fun and participatory setting.

Facilitator:

Lisa Ker, Executive Director, Ottawa Salus Corporation

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Tenants

101 – Can the science of sustainability be fun?

You want to reduce your building’s utility consumption, but how can you convince residents to participate in your sustainability programs? By making the science of sustainability fun and engaging! Matt Miller from Yardi Systems Inc. will share sustainability programs that are on the market and effective strategies to engage your residents in new, fun, and creative ways.

Presenter:

Matt Miller, Industry Principal, Energy Solutions, Yardi Systems, Inc.

106 – Discover your communication style

Discover your People Puzzle. Learn the keys to reducing stress and increasing productivity in both your personal and professional life. Understanding different personalities is the missing link to bridging the gap in communication. This session will bring awareness in connecting with people for greater success in your relationships and communication.

Presenter:

Wendy Godmere, Communications Specialist, President, People 2 people
(Moderator) Margaret Hollett, Program and Project Management Officer, City of Ottawa Housing Services Branch

*cancelled 201 – Encouraging seniors to garden organically

Come hear about a new program that brought the joy of gardening to seniors’ residences in Ottawa in 2014. Meet a couple of participants from the Senior Organic Gardeners program and hear their thoughts about the joy of planting, weeding and caring for those organic vegetables and herbs. Learn how you can start your organic gardening program for seniors and how to get your tenants involved.

Presenter:

Margaret Tourond-Townson, Ottawa-St. Lawrence-Outaouais Chapter, Canadian Organic Growers

202 – Up your game: Working with tenants to improve your services

Good customer service is the linchpin for creating positive relationships with tenants and applicants, so it’s important that you know how your staff are doing. This session will outline strategies that landlords can use to improve their customer service by engaging their tenants including introduction and exit service surveys, developing a “resident/tenant mystery shopping” system and the use of a resident audit committee.

Presenters:

Carol Barber, Managing Agent for Timmins Non-Profit Housing Corp. and Program Manager, CDSSAB Housing Services
Brenda Osborne, CEO, City Housing Hamilton
Aaron Lynes, Operations Manager, Victoria Park Community Homes Inc.
Kim Weiman, Managing Director, Community Housing Management Network
Jeff Menzies, Garden Facilitator, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation
(Moderator) Lisa Oliveira, Manager, Research Mobilization, Housing Services Corporation

div class="blue_border"> 206, SC