About Connaught Housing Co-operative
Our story of community, cooperation, and affordable housing in Vancouver since 1982.
Our Story
Established in the early 1980s, Connaught Housing Co-operative was created through the Canada Rental Supply Program (CRSP), a federal initiative that ran from 1981 to 1984 and established thousands of affordable housing units across Canada. Our co-op is part of the broader wave of co-operative housing development that occurred in Canada from the 1970s through the early 1990s, supported by federal and provincial programs.
On April 1, 1984, our founding members moved into what would become not just a building, but a true community, where they could begin paying down the mortgage and building something lasting together. From that first welcome party in the courtyard featuring big tents, the band “Soul Survivors,” food, dancing, and general frivolity, Connaught has been a place where neighbours become friends and community matters.
Located in the vibrant False Creek South neighbourhood of Vancouver, our co-op has been providing quality, community-focused housing for over 40 years.
Our Community Today
Address: 527 Commodore Rd, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4G5
Units: 79 residential units offering a mix of family and senior housing with various bedroom sizes
Located in historic False Creek South on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Connaught offers affordable housing in one of Vancouver’s most connected neighbourhoods.
What Makes Us Different
At Connaught, we’re not tenants or landlords, we’re members. Every person living here has a voice in how our community is run. Through our democratic structure, members participate in decisions about everything from housing charges to building improvements, creating a true sense of ownership and belonging.
Our co-op values:
Democratic governance – one member, one vote
Community participation – active involvement in co-op life
Affordability – non-profit housing charge structure
Diversity & inclusion – open to all who can fulfill membership responsibilities
Sustainability – caring for our building and environment together
Get Involved: Our Committees
Life at Connaught is shaped by the dedicated volunteers who serve on our committees. These member-led groups keep our community thriving, our building well-maintained, and our connections strong. Committee participation is a cornerstone of co-op living and a great way to meet your neighbours while contributing to our collective home.
Active Committees Include:
Board of Directors
Our elected leadership team manages overall operations and makes key decisions for the co-op.
Landscape Committee
Transforms our outdoor spaces through volunteer gardening events, mulching projects, and ongoing care of our beautiful gardens. Join in for weeding events, treats, and a good workout!
Maintenance Committee
Coordinates building upkeep and works with our maintenance staff to ensure our home stays in great condition.
Newsletter Committee
Produces our regular Connaught Connect newsletter, sharing stories, updates, and member profiles that keep our community connected.
Social Committee
Organizes community events throughout the year, from Halloween parties and pumpkin carving contests to holiday celebrations and Wednesday games nights in the Common Room.
Recycling Committee
Educates members on proper waste management and ensures our recycling systems run smoothly.
Membership Committee
Reviews applications and welcomes new members to our community.
Orientation Committee
Helps new members settle in and understand co-op living.
Welcoming Committee
Ensures new members feel at home from day one.
Aging in Place Committee
Supports members who want to remain in their homes as they age.
Block Watch Committee
Promotes safety and community awareness.
Parking Committee
Manages parking spaces and bike storage.
Bike Room Committee
Maintains and organizes our bicycle storage facilities.
Want to Get Involved?
Committee participation is what makes Connaught special. Whether you have a few hours a month or you’d like to take on a leadership role, there’s a place for you. By joining a committee, you’ll:
Shape the future of Connaught
Meet your neighbours and build lasting friendships
Learn new skills in everything from landscaping to event planning
Make a real difference in your community
Experience true co-op living through active participation
New members and long-time residents alike are always welcome on committees. It’s one of the best ways to understand what makes co-op housing unique and to ensure Connaught continues to be a thriving, welcoming community for years to come.
Our Neighbourhood
False Creek South is one of Vancouver’s most livable neighbourhoods, offering:
Seawall access for walking, running, and cycling
Close proximity to downtown Vancouver
Granville Island’s markets and cultural activities
Community centres and recreational facilities
Public transit connections
Parks and green spaces
Board of Directors
Our co-op is governed by an elected Board of Directors
Ryan Semiao
Chair, RS
Lina Thompson
Vice-chair, LT
Krista Breen
Secretary, KB
Ken Petry
Treasurer, KP
Suzanne Jenkins
Member at Large SJ
Barb Snelgrove
Member at Large BS
Ignacio Rozada
Member at Large IR
Winston Mackenzie
Member at Large WM
Interested in joining our community?
Learn more about our application process or explore what co-op housing is all about.