09/21/2026
On August 26, 2026, the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness (ACEH) gathered at the Gorge Park Pavilion on Lək̓ʷəŋən territory for our Annual General Meeting and 10-Year Acknowledgement.
It was a special day of reflection, celebration, and connection as we came together with registered members, Elders and Knowledge Keepers, past and present Board Directors, community partners, and staff. Looking around the gathering, we were reminded that ACEH's story has always been built on relationships, and that every milestone we've reached has been possible because of the people who have walked alongside us.
We were honoured to begin the day with a welcome from Mary Ann Thomas of Esquimalt First Nation, wife of the late Hereditary Chief Andy Thomas, alongside their son, Hereditary Chief Edward Thomas, and daughter, Mary Ann Thomas Jr. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kaleb Child for organizing the drummers and cultural celebration, helping to bring such a meaningful spirit to the day.
We also raise our hands to Board Chair Ruth Young, and former Board Chair John Powell - Chief of Mamalilikulla First Nation, for helping guide us through the gathering and marking this important milestone with us.
A sincere thank you to Wallace Thomas for preparing the meal and to the speakers who shared their stories, reflections, and encouragement, including Don Elliott of the CRD, Jason Laidman, retired Victoria Police and longtime friend of ACEH, Chuck Henry, Elder at our Youth House, and Aunty Glo, who has been with the Coalition since the very beginning.
We are also grateful to Christian Wiebe for photographing our 10-Year Acknowledgement and capturing the people, laughter, conversations, and connections that made the day so memorable. These photographs will help preserve this milestone for our community and for future generations.
Thank you to Gail Sam for providing the blessing for our meal, and to the members of our Elders and Knowledge Keepers Advisory Committee who joined us. Your guidance, teachings, and support continue to strengthen our work and help keep us grounded in our purpose.
As part of our 10-year celebration, we were honoured to recognize Correen Child for her many years of dedication to ACEH. Correen was a member of the original staff team, later served as Associate Executive Director, and continued her connection to the Coalition as Board Chair. Her leadership, commitment, and contributions have left a lasting impact on the organization, and we are deeply grateful for all she has given to ACEH.
We were also pleased to acknowledge former Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps for her longstanding support of the Coalition and the role she has played in helping ACEH grow and reach this important milestone.
In addition to celebrating our 10-year journey, attendees participated in our AGM, receiving updates on the past year and approving the resolutions brought forward, including the election of the Board of Directors for the coming year.
Ten years of ACEH represents ten years of relationships, teachings, advocacy, resilience, and community. As we reflect on how far we've come, we do so with deep gratitude for everyone who has shared their knowledge, offered their support, and helped shape the Coalition into what it is today.
To all who have been part of this journey, thank you. We raise our hands to you and look forward to continuing this work together.
