Conference Highlights

Pre-Conference Session:

ED CEO Open Session
Meeting Room: Mercuri (Caesars Windsor)
1p.m. to 4p.m.

Typically, we host a NEW ED CEO session, at this time.

This year, we are taking a different approach and will host an open session, in which any and all ED CEOs can join us to discuss common items of concern:

1. Human Resources – i.e., organizational culture, succession planning, performance management
2. Program – i.e., homeowner services, volunteer services, ReStore.
3. Financial Health

Bring your pressing issues - HFHC staff will be attendance for 1:1 and small group conversations, with you and your peers.

*An afternoon snack will be served. Lunch is on your own.

The NEW ED CEO session will return at the November Leadership Summit.

There is no registration fee to attend, but you must register your attendance.

Optional Team Networking Dine-Arounds
Lobby – Caesars Windsor Hotel and Casino
Board Buses at 5:45p.m.

Kick off conference with your forum group in Windsor's Little Italy.

This is an opportunity to meet new people in similar roles, see old acquaintances and discuss issues you can relate to. Dinner locations can be found on the Team Networking Dine-Arounds page.

Bus boarding will begin at 5:45p.m. in the Lobby of Caesars Windsor Hotel and Casino. Buses will be leaving at 6p.m. sharp.

Please remember to register for the dinner of your choice.

Please note: The Team Networking Dine-Arounds are pay on your own, they are not included in any of the registration packages and are an optional activity.

Habitat Boutique
Pre-Function Area
7:30a.m. to 2:30p.m.

Stop by the Habitat Boutique to take some branded apparel and goodies home for your staff, volunteers, and yourself. The boutique will be open Wednesday and Thursday. See agenda for full details.

Build GIK Program Booth
Pre-Function Area
7:30a.m. to 2:30p.m.

Want to know more about the Build GIK program? Now’s your chance. Meet Shilo Darling, Manager, National Build GIK Program where she will provide you with program resources and answer any questions you may have about the program.

Habitat T-Shirt Exchange
Pre-Function Area

Looking to expand your Habitat t-shirt collection? Look no further! We are hosting our first ever Habitat T-shirt Exchange. We welcome you to bring t-shirts from your affiliate or national organization and exchange them, one for one, with t-shirts from other affiliates. The shirts should be new and logo appropriate Habitat shirts.

Drop them off at registration between the hours of 7am to 2pm on Wednesday, May 8 where you will receive a ticket for every t-shirt you bring.

Come back on Thursday, May 9 between the hours of 7am and 1:30pm to select a new tee! Come early for best selection!

ReCharge Lounge
Solis
7a.m. to 4p.m.

Back by popular demand. Need some time away from the hustle and bustle of conference? Not a problem! The ReCharge Lounge is your number one spot to take some quiet time to recharge and catch your breath.

Game Zone
Pre-Function Area

Need a break? Stop by for a game of giant Connect Four or Cornhole! This is a great way to network while adding a little competitive spirit. Games will be available throughout conference.

Wake Up Music with Madeline Doornaert
Pre-Function Area
7:30a.m. to 8:45a.m.

Meet and Greet Book Signing with Steve Byrne, local author of Skim: Milk, Money and Murder
Pre-Function Area
10:30a.m. to 1:30p.m.

“A truly Canadian story set during prohibition in southwestern Ontario. Exciting and suspenseful, Byrne blends fiction and history to deliver a story that's hard to put down. For those familiar with Windsor Ontario, Walkerville, Belle River and Essex County, there's the added bonus of familiarity. Highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a "Peaky Blinders" style story with a full serving of Canadiana!” Amazon Review

Make sure to stop by and pick up your copy of Skim: Milk, Money and Murder from Windsor’s own, Steve Byrne. When Steve’s not writing, he can be found volunteering in Habitat Windsor-Essex’s ReStore as part of the kitchen salvage team.

Learn more about Steve and this border city prohibition tale.

You can purchase your copy on Amazon and bring it with you to the signing, or purchase your copy on-site.
*Cash sales only

Habitat Windsor-Essex Welcome Tour and Dinner

Embark on a Journey through History and Culinary Delights in Windsor and Essex County!

We extend a warm welcome to you in the enchanting embrace of Windsor and Essex County! Join us for an unforgettable kickstart at our Conference with a historic tour and welcome dinner, graciously hosted by Habitat Windsor-Essex.

Bus Tour: Discover the Tapestry of Windsor's Past

Embark on a captivating journey through historic Sandwich Towne, a locale steeped in history as the first stop on the Underground Railroad. Immerse yourself in tales of courage and freedom as slaves sought their liberty, crossing from Detroit, MI to Canada. Witness Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex's latest home construction, contributing to the vibrant revitalization of this remarkable community.

Relax and enjoy the ride as we venture beyond the city limits, delving into Al Capone's Windsor connection and the intriguing chapters of rum runners’ history from Windsor's storied past. Marvel at the transition from the bustling cityscape and waterfront with breathtaking cross-border views of Detroit to the serene landscapes of our rich agriculture and wine trails.

Welcome Dinner: A Toast to Partnership at Sprucewood Winery

Raise your glass to the reunion of our esteemed partners from across Canada at the picturesque Sprucewood Winery. Securing the winery, dining hall, patio, and beach access exclusively for our guests, we promise an evening of unparalleled delight. Immerse yourself in musical entertainment, relish delectable food and exquisite wine, and unwind on the patio against the backdrop of our enchanting wine district.

We are excited to extend an invitation to our welcome dinner, which promises an enchanting evening filled with delightful ambience and unique features at the venue. To ensure a seamless experience for all attendees and to manage capacity effectively, there is a modest $20.00 registration cost. Your contribution will go towards creating a memorable event for everyone. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you to this special gathering.

Our mild temperatures almost ensure a warm Spring evening, creating the perfect atmosphere for reconnecting and basking in the musical offerings. A cash bar will be available on-site for your convenience.

Following the meal, buses will return to Caesars Windsor at staggered times, allowing you the flexibility to savor the welcome dinner ambience or retire early to the comfort of your hotel room.

Dress Code: For the planned festivities, a business casual attire will be perfect, and we recommend bringing a light jacket for the evening, especially if you wish to extend your stay on the patio.

Join us for an evening that transcends time, blending history, culture, and camaraderie. We eagerly anticipate your presence as we weave the threads of our incredible city's past and present into a tapestry of unforgettable memories.

Registration is required to attend. Guest Tickets are available through registration for $100 PP.

Wake Up Music with Lisette & Tyler
Pre-Function Area
7:30a.m. to 8:45a.m.

Meaning of Home Winner Presentation and Book Signing
Pre-Function Area
12:30p.m.

Make sure to put this on your conference “to do” list! We will be announcing this year’s winners at the conference, followed by a book signing with the illustrated book for the new winning entry.

Awards Celebration Gala and Dinner: The Roaring Twenties
Augustus I &II Ballroom
Reception – Pre-Function Area - 6p.m.
Dinner and Awards – Augustus I & II – 6:45p.m.

Welcome to the National Awards Celebration Gala and Dinner! Take a step back in time to the Roaring Twenties, a decade of firsts, jazz, the foxtrot, flappers, and speakeasies. Together we will celebrate another outstanding year of incredible achievements with dinner, awards, and live entertainment, performed by Windsor’s own Eclipse, throughout the evening and after the formal presentation.

Following the award presentation, stay for the always anticipated announcement of the 2025 National Conference & AGM location and Host affiliate.

The Awards Celebration Gala and Dinner is your chance to dress up. You will see suits, sports coats, and dresses. Feel free to get into the spirit of the theme! If you want to be the bee’s knees make sure to grab your beads, fringe, bandeaus, and pinstripes!

*Speakeasies (cash bars) will open at 6p.m. in the pre-function area with doors opening to the Ballroom at 6:45 p.m.

Annual General Meeting
Augustus I &II
1p.m. to 3:30p.m.

Gather from 1p.m. to 3:30p.m. on Friday, May 10 to vote on important items of business and elect the next National Board of Directors. Official documents will be sent in advance.
Please note: AGM registration will open at the registration desk starting at 12p.m.

Windsor Graffiti Scooter Tour
400 Erie Street E. Windsor
1:30p.m. to 4p.m.
$59 per person

Not attending the AGM, but looking for something to do on Friday afternoon? Register for the Windsor Graffiti Scooter Tour.

Zip around Windsor on an official Bird Canada electric scooter, rolling through streets and alleys to see the many visually stunning ways artists, both local and internationally renowned, have used the urban landscape as their canvas.

What was once a form of protest, vandalism and even communication, is now an art movement. Throughout this tour, WindsorEats’ guide will have you:

• See how graffiti and street art is transforming neighbourhoods in Windsor.
• Learn about over 20 different pieces of art with an opportunity to take some great pictures for the ‘Gram.
• Visit Windsor’s famous Art Alley
• Learn some history of both graffiti and Canada’s southernmost city.
• Use of a Bird Canada electric scooter

This tour is officially supported by Bird Canada. Approximately 12km.