The “Dr. Tessa Hebb Graduate Award in Social Innovation” is awarded to students involved with a project in the not-for-profit sector through the 杏吧原创 Centre for Community Innovation. This year, Marlys Jordan (team lead), Damilola Abimboye, Erin Larmondin and Jeanette Wilson receive an Award for their MPNL capstone project, “Is Affordable Housing Really Affordable? The Dual Challenge of Providing Affordable Seniors Housing.”

The capstone report, in collaboration with , a nonprofit organization that provides affordable homes and services for seniors, families and individuals, looks at the D鈥橝rcy Affordable Housing Development in Okotoks, Alberta, just south of Calgary. The proposed Okotoks development is in the planning stages and targeted to provide affordable housing to seniors using a multi-tiered funding model.

The capstone looks at how multi-tiered funding strategies, including social finance mechanisms, can address affordability for both the housing provider and seniors . More broadly, it identifies systemic issues, like rising construction costs, inconsistent policy support, a lack of transparency in government practices, and limited collaboration among stakeholders, all of which impact the sector鈥檚 capacity to meet the demand for seniors housing. Their findings show that collaboration between governments, nonprofits, private-sector partners, and communities is essential to address a growing crisis.

The “Dr. Tessa Hebb Graduate Award in Social Innovation” (also known as the “2024 MPNL Social Innovation Fellowship Award”) was endowed in 2009 by an anonymous philanthropic gift to further 杏吧原创鈥檚 development of thought leaders, educators and professionals in the nonprofit sector. Preference is given to students who are pursuing research in civil society and whose work may enhance program or process innovation and capacity building in the nonprofit sector.

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Damilola Abimboye is a dynamic leader and changemaker, dedicated to driving social efforts and innovation within her community. As the founder of Boye鈥檚 Lifeline, she has spearheaded numerous initiatives to uplift vulnerable populations, focusing on the homeless, marginalized, and those facing systemic barriers.

Her work is defined by a commitment to social innovation, leveraging creative and sustainable approaches to address pressing issues, such as homelessness, food insecurity, and community disenfranchisement. From organizing resource drives and creating safe spaces for marginalized individuals to introducing programs that foster long-term empowerment, Damilola blends compassion with strategic action to inspire change.

Beyond direct interventions, Damilola is passionate about fostering resilience through advocacy and collaboration. She works closely with local organizations, stakeholders, and community members to ensure that her efforts align with the needs of the population she serves. Her innovative mindset and ability to mobilize resources have positioned her as a leading voice in community development.

With Boye鈥檚 Lifeline, Damilola Abimboye continues to lead the charge in creating inclusive opportunities and sustainable solutions, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. Her dedication to social efforts and innovation exemplifies the transformative power of grassroots initiatives.

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