Community events hosted by United Way focus on homelessness, belonging and United Housing

United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) has released information about three upcoming community events on the horizon that touch upon the topic of belonging to a community, myth busting homelessness and a housing symposium.

Huron County Housing Symposium will be held on Wednesday, September 24 at the Wingham Columbus Centre.

This full-day event will bring together community leaders, practitioners and residents for meaningful conversations about housing solutions in Huron County.

“Together, we’ll explore ideas, imagine the neighbourhoods we want to see in the future and discuss how to turn those ideas into action,” said Millar.

The symposium is a free event that will include lunch for those who attend. The event will run from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The OPP have generously sponsored this event.

Registration is still required for the symposium.

“The United Housing Symposium is a chance for our community to come together around one of the most urgent issues we face – housing,” Millar added.

“United Housing believes no single organization can solve this challenge alone. That’s why it’s so important for everyone to take part in building solutions, from agencies and municipalities to local businesses and residents. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to create a community where every person has a safe place to call home?”

The 2025 United Way Campaign Kick Off for the region of mid-Huron will be held in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Huron Perth on Wednesday, September 17 at the Goderich Legion.

This year’s event will highlight the theme of Myth Busting: Confronting Myths and What’s Being Done About Homelessness.

Millar says the event will explore the realities of the local housing crisis, challenge common misconceptions and discuss the impact of community-driven solutions.

“Our annual campaign kickoff is more than an event, it’s about rallying our community to tackle local issues like homelessness,” explained Millar.

“Through fundraising, we support frontline agencies doing critical work and advance solutions through United Housing. These efforts are about more than emergency responses; they’re about building a path toward lasting stability and dignity for our neighbours.”

Running from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Goderich Legion, participants will be able to enjoy coffee and muffins by donation.

Millar will present at this event, along with Ryan Urb (UWPH) and Jaden Mitchell (CMHAHP).

Belonging Matters will take place on Tuesday, October 7 in Clinton at the Libro Community Hall.

This event isn’t just a workshop, but a call to everyone across Huron and Perth counties to come together and ask – What does community look like now?

How do we rebuild our volunteer networks?

How do we create spaces where everyone feels like they truly belong?

According to Michelle Millar, Manager of Community Development with UWPH, if you care about connection, inclusion, and the future of communities, this is where the conversation begins.

“UWPH is proud to host the Belonging Matters workshop with local partners,” said Millar.

“Belonging is the foundation of strong community development; when people feel they belong, they’re more engaged, resilient and supported, and that’s when our whole community thrives.”

For more information visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca