International Conference on the Prevention of Youth Homelessness

Join us for the International Conference on the Prevention of Youth Homelessness, presented by A Way Home Canada and the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness. This global gathering, taking place Feb. 24 to 26, 2025, at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto, is the culmination of the Making the Shift Networks of Centres of Excellence grant. Over three inspiring days, this conference will bring together a diverse array of researchers, service providers, advocates, policymakers and lived experts to explore evidence-based solutions to youth homelessness.

Why attend?

This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to:

• Engage with cutting-edge research that drives innovative practices and policies in youth homelessness prevention.
• Hear from over 100 presenters, including renowned keynote speakers from Canada and abroad, who are at the forefront of homelessness prevention.
• Participate in plenary sessions, workshops, and interactive panels designed to inspire collaboration and actionable strategies.
• Connect with thought leaders and colleagues from across sectors, regions and disciplines who are passionate about ending youth homelessness.

Keynote speakers

We are thrilled to welcome an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers:

• Stephen Gaetz: professor, Faculty of Education at York University, and president/CEO of the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness.
• Jama Shelton: associate professor, Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College, focusing on housing equity for queer and trans youth.
• Peter Mackie: professor at Cardiff University, an international expert in homelessness prevention and housing policy.
• Jeff Olivet: executive director of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, with over 25 years of experience in homelessness services and advocacy.

Conference highlights

• Over 100 presentations from global experts.
• Focused discussions on prevention strategies, innovative policies, and practical solutions.
• Opportunities to learn from evidence-based practices and collaborate with leaders across sectors.
• A dynamic agenda designed to spark innovation and mobilize impactful change.

Agenda at a glance

Feb. 24, 2025 (Day 1): Opening plenaries, keynote presentations and networking opportunities.
Feb. 25, 2025 (Day 2): Breakout sessions, panels and research workshops.
Feb. 26, 2025 (Day 3): Morning plenaries and a closing keynote (ends at noon).

Registration details

• Early Bird Rate (on or before Dec. 11, 2024): $711
• Standard Rate (after Dec. 11, 2024): $800

Fees include:

• access to all plenaries and sessions;
• breakfasts, lunches and refreshment breaks; and
• opening reception.

Note: Registration does not include accommodation or travel expenses. All fees are subject to 13 per cent Ontario HST.

Special accommodations

A discounted room rate is available at the Westin Harbour Castle. Use the group code “YOU” when booking, by Jan. 26, 2025.

Discounted airline rates are available through Air Canada and WestJet.

Who should attend?

This conference is ideal for:

• service providers in shelters, outreach and housing programs;
• researchers and academics exploring youth homelessness and housing policy;
• policymakers and government representatives at all levels; and
• advocates, community leaders and those with lived experience of homelessness.

Contact information

For further details, contact makingtheshift@yorku.ca or visit our official conference page: preventhomelessness.ca/2025conference.

Don’t miss this chance to join the global movement to prevent youth homelessness. Register today!