Established in 1999, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual whose dedication and vision have furthered the cause of affordable housing in BC.
Purpose
To recognize an individual whose dedication and vision have furthered the cause of affordable housing in British Columbia. Originally named after Denise LeBlond, a well-known leader in the affordable housing sector, the award name was changed in 2025 to reflect BCNPHA’s desire to recognize both longtime housing leaders and staff for their contributions.
Eligibility
The nominee for this award may be any individual who has contributed to affordable housing in BC. The nominee does not have to be a BCNPHA member but does have to be from the housing sector and can be a leader, staff member or volunteer with a non-profit housing society. The person nominating needs to advise the nominee that their name is being submitted for this award. The committee will notify the successful nominee by September 2025.
Award Criteria
Recipients must meet at least two of the following criteria:
Outstanding contributions and commitment to affordable housing
- Has spent a significant portion of their career in the housing and homelessness sector.
- Has worked to improve access to housing for vulnerable community members and/or expanded housing options in BC.
- Has shared knowledge with peers and young professionals to ensure learning and succession in the sector.
- A commitment to affordable housing sector organizations in BC.
Nomination Process
The BCNPHA Awards Committee will review the nominees on a rolling basis throughout the nomination period and will contact the nominator for more information if the nominee meets the eligibility criteria for the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Deadline for nominations is May 16, 2025.
If you require assistance completing the online nominations form below, or have any questions, please contact communications@bcnpha.ca.
Lifetime Achievement Award Nominations
Established in 1999, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual whose dedication and vision have furthered the cause of affordable housing in BC. Open to leaders and staff.
2024 Award Recipient: Karen Gerein
Karen Gerein is Executive Director of Vernon Native Housing Society and has been with the organization for 25 years as the only staff member (part-time). The Vernon Native Housing Society aims to enhance the living conditions of the urban people in the city of Vernon. It has been operating for 35 years, delivering housing for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Karen is a genuine helper in the community and her demeanor and approach is trustworthy and recognized by partners and stakeholders. Karen has organizational leadership skills and excels in strategic planning to continue the success of Vernon Native Housing as the largest developer of affordable and accessible housing in Vernon.
Previous Recipients
- 2023 – Darrell Burnham
- 2022 – Pat Buchannon
- 2021 – Ken Zeitner
- 2020 – Gary Glacken
- 2019 – Kaye Melliship
- 2018 – Lorne Epp
- 2017 – Charan Gill
- 2016 – Bonnie Rice
- 2015 –Danna Locke
- 2014 – John Crean
- 2013 – Janice Abbott
- 2012 – Claudette Plante
- 2011 – Janice Ivan
- 2010 – Alice Sundberg
- 2009 – Linda Thomas
- 2008 – Barbara Bacon
- 2007 – Judith Lloyd
- 2006 – Luke Stack
- 2005 – Bob Nicklin
- 2004 – Linda Ross
- 2003 – Karen O’Shannacery
- 2002 – Liz Evans
- 2001 – Frank Rushton
- 2000 – Jane Dewing
- 1999 – Judy Graves