The North Shore Service Providers’ Forum 2024 hosted by the North Shore Immigrant Inclusion Partnership (NSIIP) in February was a dynamic event focused on advancing immigrant inclusion and equity. The theme, “Leveraging Collective Impact: Community Service Providers as Champions of Immigrant Inclusion,” underscored the vital role that nonprofit organizations and community service providers play in supporting im/migrant communities.
Keynote speakers Norm Leech, Zahra Esmail, and Utsav Thakur shared inspiring insights. Norm Leech, Executive Director of Frog Hollow Neighborhood House, emphasized the importance of community service providers in reconciliation efforts, highlighting the need for collaboration and understanding. Zahra Esmail, CEO of Vantage Point, shared strategies on how nonprofits can achieve more with limited resources, emphasizing the power of innovation and creativity. Utsav Thakur, Director of Services at Impact North Shore, spoke about the emerging needs of local immigrant communities and the importance of leveraging collective efforts to address these needs effectively.
The event provided valuable information about the current state of BC’s nonprofit sector, highlighting the challenges and opportunities facing service providers. Participants gained insight into their role to respond to emerging trends and needs of im/migrant communities. The event also offered a platform for reflection and collaboration, encouraging service providers to imagine new ways of working together to accelerate immigrant inclusion and equity.
Overall, the annual Service Providers’ Forum was a testament to the power of collaboration and community in advancing im/migrant inclusion. It served as a reminder of the important role that service providers play in creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
