As 2024 draws to a close, we’ve been reflecting on the eventful year that USJ has had.

The year began on a sad note, as long-time Member and former USJ Director, Lyn King passed away unexpectedly in January. As a neighbour, co-op advocate, and a driving force behind the 2015 USJ Merger, Lyn will be missed.

In June, four USJ board members attended CHF Canada’s Annual General Meeting in Winnipeg. We were especially delighted that USJ President Émmanuelle Proud-Thomson was elected to serve on the Board of CHF Canada representing New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Canada’s co-op sector got some very exciting news this summer, when the federal government announced the largest investment supporting the co-op housing sector in the last 30 years. The $1.5 billion Co-op Housing Development Program will support the development of thousands of affordable rental co-operative homes.

CHF Canada’s Atlantic Summit in October was another highlight of the year. Five USJ board members attended. In addition to taking part in education and networking, USJ also had a trade show table where we provided information about the co-op to our fellow co-operators.

USJ received funding this year from the Community Housing Transformation Centre to complete a Strategic Plan in consultation with the General Membership. That plan, including a new vision, mission and core values along with a new co-op logo was unveiled to the membership at our Annual General Meeting in October.

With this new strategic plan providing a strong foundation, we’re looking forward to 2025. We wish all co-op members and our neighbours a cozy, restful end to the year, and an inspiring beginning to 2025!