Plenary 1 – What can we do with $38 billion? Leveraging strengths for systems change

October 30, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Instead of focusing on what we lack, what if we started with what we already have? This plenary reframes the conversation around the sector’s existing strengths: built assets, land for development, and a skilled workforce trusted by communities. 

Joined by an economist and sector leaders, we’ll explore how these strengths — including $38 billion in collective assets across the Ontario community housing sector — can drive transformational change across housing, health, and local governance. How can we harness what we already have to build better systems and create lasting progress? 

Presented By

Jamie McGarvey

Mayor of the Town of Parry Sound, Chair of the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities

Heather McDonald

President & CEO, United Way Greater TorontoUnited Way Greater Toronto

Marlene Coffey

CEO, Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association

Sponsored By