The Whatcom Housing Alliance is proud to announce the eighth annual Whatcom Housing Week, a week-long event dedicated to addressing the critical housing challenges facing our community. In partnership with local organizations, the Whatcom Housing Alliance is hosting over 17 events, each free and open to the public. Events will be held from October 15-18, 2024 and will include walking tours, art exhibits, a candidate forum and the biannual Whatcom Housing Alliance All Members Meeting.
This week of events provides an essential opportunity for all stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, nonprofits, and the community at large, to come together to find innovative and sustainable solutions to the housing crisis. Whatcom Housing Week seeks to create a platform for collaboration and education, empowering individuals and organizations to make a positive impact on the housing situation in our region.
At the All Members Meeting, held Wednesday, October 16th at Structures Brewing on Holly Street, keynote speaker Norm van Eeden Petersman from Strong Towns will discuss the root causes of America’s interrelated housing crisis and some rational responses for our community. The presentation, titled “Escaping the Housing Trap,” will also address how we arrived at the current set of problems, the aftermath of the 2008 housing market crash, why housing markets today are so prone to boom and bust cycles, and other topics. Following the keynote, Northwest Youth Services will present on the new Lincoln Street Housing Project, which will rely on middle housing to create community for youth transitioning out of homelessness.
Other key events during Housing Week include:
When Driving Is Not an Option: Join Anna Zivarts, a low-vision parent and nondriver, for a presentation focusing on how transportation systems designed with the needs of nondrivers in mind can lead to healthier, climate-friendly communities for everyone.
New Lighthouse Mission Tour: Community members will have three opportunities to tour the new Lighthouse Mission facility on F Street. The tour will focus on Lighthouse Mission’s dignified and effective approach to emergency services and offer the opportunity to see the facility in action and ask questions along the way.
Creatively Housing College Students in Whatcom County: Join representatives from Western Washington University for a hybrid event focused on meeting the housing needs of students in the region.
Healthy Housing: Learn about navigating relationships and communication with landlords, tenants, and neighbors with representatives from Lydia Place.
Habitat Passive: The Telegraph Townhome Project led by Habitat for Humanity in Whatcom County is a great example of how energy efficient housing can create lasting affordability.
Dream House: Mindport Exhibit’s popular Dream House: Dwelling in Fantasy visual arts exhibit explores the theme of housing insecurity in our region. This exhibit will be open every day during Housing Week, with a special tour led by curator Margot Stroop on October 16, from 4-6PM.
All events are open to all community members, including residents, organizations, and businesses interested in addressing the housing crisis. Whether you are directly affected by housing challenges or passionate about making a difference, these events offer something for everyone.