Community Development Corporation

A New Community Development Corporation for Local Housing

At Community Foundation Grey Bruce (CFGB), we believe that real change begins with trust. For three decades, we’ve been guided by the principles of trust-based philanthropy—investing in local people and ideas, listening deeply, and collaborating with community for the long haul. It’s what we mean when we say: we’re here for good.

This fall, we’re putting that commitment to work through the start-up of the Grey Bruce Community Development Corporation (CDC). CDCs operate throughout the world in various forms. They are not-for-profit organizations with primary emphasis on growing economic and community well-being projects. The Grey Bruce CDC will be initially focused on affordable housing throughout the two counties.

“This isn’t about replacing the great work happening in our community,” says Stuart Reid, Executive Director of CFGB. “It’s about helping housing projects move from idea to reality by providing tools, expertise, and connections.”

The CDC will:

• Offer mentorship and technical support for community housing projects.
• Explore social finance tools (like community bonds) to unlock new local investment.
• Initiate the development and/or protection of affordable housing in Grey Bruce.
• Create space for collaboration between governments, developers, and not-for-profit partners.

This initiative builds on the sturdy foundation of partnership already laid through the Institute of Southern Georgian Bay’s Housing and Social Finance Learning Circle and CFGB’s Vital Focus on Housing report (2023), both of which emphasize that housing solutions must grow from the community itself. A whole community approach to housing blends community-driven components in collaboration with our region's established players. 

“We believe housing solutions should be created in partnership with the community,” said Rick Hill, Chair of the Board at CFGB. “This CDC is about building community resiliency on many fronts, with housing being an immediate priority for new collaboration.”

To guide the development of the CDC, Ryan Deska joins CFGB as Strategic Initiatives Consultant on Housing, beginning November 1. Ryan brings deep experience in rural housing and community development, including his work with Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington in the design and implementation of its community bonds program—an initiative CFGB proudly supported.

As we take this next step, CFGB remains dedicated to fostering a region where everyone can thrive. By investing in collaboration and community-driven innovation, we’re not only addressing today’s housing challenges, but we’re also building a foundation for tomorrow. Because at Community Foundation Grey Bruce, we’re here for good.

For Definitions of CDC Key Concepts, click here.

Introducing Ryan Deska, Strategic Initiatives Consultant on Housing

Ryan Deska has built a wealth of experience working for Provincial and municipal government and not for profit organizations, exploring asset-based community development in smaller rural communities.  His experience working in community economic development and rural policy has informed his understanding of affordable housing needs throughout Grey Bruce, and the outcomes communities are looking to accomplish. Most recently, Ryan has been directly involved in the development of affordable housing, coordinating all aspects of new housing developments, including: development of pro-forma’s and project feasibility reviews, overseeing planning applications, leading funding applications, coordinating government relations efforts, and structuring the management and development team. Ryan lives in Bruce County with his partner and their 1 year old daughter.

To speak with Ryan, please call 519-371-7203 ext. 5 or email ryan.deska@cfgb.ca.