The First Nations Housing (FNH) Community, a national association, aims to empower First Nations by collaborating with its members—representing people, communities, government, and industry—to co-create innovative housing solutions through a First Nations-led vision. By bringing these stakeholders together in a holistic effort, it strives to strengthen and uplift communities across Canada.
Evolving from the 22-year legacy of the First Nations Housing Conference, the FNH Community serves as a dynamic hub for meaningful collaboration among stakeholders. It emphasizes the shared responsibility of housing managers, community leaders, and members in tackling housing challenges. By providing a platform for knowledge exchange, mutual support, and collective action, the FNH Community fosters the development of skills and resources to drive safe, affordable, and equitable housing initiatives.
Rooted in the contributions of Tribal Council representatives and community members, the FNH Community emphasizes the principle of being “For First Nations, by First Nations”, focusing on practical, community-driven solutions. Through direct engagement and continuous dialogue with members nationwide, it identifies challenges and develops tailored resources to meet the diverse needs of First Nations communities, ensuring sustainable progress in housing.
At the core of its mission is a commitment to capacity building at every level—leadership, administrative, and technical. By equipping communities to take ownership of their housing futures, it promotes resilience and long-term growth. With over two decades of proven success, the FNH Community is positioned to advocate on a national scale, and to lead transformative change, setting a new standard for First Nations housing teams across the country.
The First Nations Housing (FNH) Community was officially launched at the 2019 First Nations Housing Conference, marking a transformative step in its development. For the first time, the conference operated under the FNH Community banner—a new association inspired by the collaborative efforts of the First Nations Housing Conference Working Group. This launch formalized years of successful partnership and innovation, setting the stage for nationwide support in addressing housing challenges for First Nations communities.
Originating in 2003 as a small gathering in Sioux Lookout, Ontario, the First Nations Housing Conference has grown into a major national event over the past 21 years. It brings together First Nations, government, and industry to develop practical, community-driven housing solutions.
The Working Group, composed of representatives from Tribal Councils, has played a crucial role in the conference’s success by fostering partnerships and empowering First Nations communities. Building on this foundation, the FNH Community continues to evolve with a clear mission: to establish chapters across Canada’s provinces and territories, expanding its reach and ensuring its initiatives align with the unique needs of communities nationwide.
This evolution from a regional conference to a national Housing Community represents a significant milestone, ensuring that two decades of collaboration and growth fuel sustainable and innovative housing support solutions for the future.
The FNH Community unites First Nations people, national communities, industries, and governments to identify challenges and co-create solutions. Through capacity building in leadership, technical expertise, and administration, it empowers First Nations communities with a collaborative, ‘First Nations-led approach.’
The FNH Community envisions a vibrant network of empowered First Nations communities where housing solutions are designed and implemented in alignment with the voices and perspectives of their members, ensuring their needs and aspirations are at the forefront of development.
“A Community to Build Our Communities” embodies a Community-Centric Approach that prioritizes the collective well-being of First Nations. It reflects a Holistic Approach, addressing interconnected needs such as housing, health, and education, while fostering Collective Effort to achieve Shared Goals.
This vision promotes Empowerment and Growth by equipping individuals and communities with the tools to thrive. Through strong Partnerships and a Supportive Network, it ensures a sense of belonging and collaboration. Grounded in Capacity Building and respect for the cultural diversity of First Nations communities, it values every voice, driving sustainable solutions that uplift and strengthen communities across Canada.
The Board of the FNH Community is responsible for providing strategic leadership to ensure the association’s vision and mission align with the evolving needs of First Nations housing. Representing an ever-growing and diverse membership of communities, government, industry, and individuals, the Board will define the organization’s structure, establish clear priorities, and oversee initiatives that address cultural, regional, and practical housing challenges. The Board is committed to fostering partnerships, guiding capacity-building efforts, and ensuring sustainable growth, positioning the FNH Community as a trusted leader in innovative and inclusive housing support solutions for First Nations across Canada.
The Board of the FNH Community is composed of representatives from First Nations Tribal Councils and leadership, bringing administrative and technical expertise. This structure ensures a focused and effective approach to addressing the distinct needs and aspirations of communities.
Through their governance role, board members provide valuable insights and expertise to shape impactful initiatives and deliver meaningful support for First Nations across the country.
It is important to mention that every member can potentially be part of the Board of Directors and has the opportunity to join the Community Committee and the Conference Working Group.
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