FNHPA- June greetings from our CEO

Press Release

Kwey Kwey,

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to celebrate and honour the rich histories, cultures, languages, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada. As an organization dedicated to supporting First Nations, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the strength and resilience of our communities and the important role housing plays in supporting healthy, vibrant, and self-determined Nations. As we move into the summer season, I encourage all of us to take time to recognize and celebrate the stories, knowledge, and traditions that continue to shape our communities and our work.

I am pleased to share that exhibitor registration is now open for the 2026 FNHPA National Conference, taking place this October 14- 16, 2026, in Montreal, Quebec. Our annual conference is one of the most important opportunities for the First Nations Housing Industry from across the country to come together, learn from one another, and strengthen our collective capacity. A gentle reminder, we are also inviting FNHPA Certified Members to share their expertise by presenting a workshop or session during the conference. If you have innovative practices, success stories, lessons learned, or tools that would benefit your peers, I encourage you to submit a proposal and contribute to this year’s program.

We have also marked the release of our new Comprehensive Housing Guide and Housing Wellness Guide. These resources were developed to support First Nations with practical tools, information, and best practices that help strengthen housing systems and promote community well-being. We look forward to hearing how these guides support your work and contribute to advancing housing excellence in your communities.

Finally, I would like to invite members in Northern Ontario to join us for our first Northern Ontario Regional Gathering, taking place June 22–24 in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The link to register can be found in this month’s newsletter. This gathering provides an important opportunity to connect, share experiences, discuss regional priorities, and strengthen relationships.

As we prepare for the months ahead, I also encourage members to watch for continued information regarding upcoming Board of Directors elections. Your participation in FNHPA governance helps ensure our organization continues to reflect the needs and priorities of First Nations housing across the country.

Upcoming May and June Events:

⦁ SAENCAT Conference Annuelle June 16-17 in Val-d’Or, QC

⦁ MIHCEMI Housing Conference June 16-17 in Winnipeg, MB

⦁ FNHPA Northern Ontario Regional Gathering June 23-24 in Thunder Bay, ON

⦁ FNHPA Alberta Regional Gathering July 28-29 in Calgary, AB

⦁ MRP Toolbox Training August 12-13 in Rama, ON

⦁ OFNTSC-Tech Nations 2026 August 18-19 in Sault Ste Marie, ON

Thank you for your continued dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing First Nations housing. I wish you all a safe, enjoyable, and meaningful summer season.

Kitchi migwetch,

Candace Bennett, FNHP, CIL, CAPA, CIHRP, OCAP® Chief Executive Officer

First Nations Housing Professionals Association (FNHPA)

candace@fnhpa.ca

613-299-3810

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