CHRA/CIH Canada International Study Tour
Broaden your understanding of community housing
CHRA and the Chartered Institute of Housing Canada (managed by CHRA) have partnered to organize an annual study tour that takes community housing providers from across Canada to learn from their peers.
2025 will see the tour visiting Helsinki, Finland to learn how the country has effectively ended homelessness.
Previous study tour destinations include London, UK (2024) and New York City (2023).
2025 Study Tour: Helsinki, Finland
September 22-26
CHRA and the Chartered Institute of Housing Canada, in partnership with Nick Falvo Consulting, is leading an international housing and homelessness study tour to Helsinki, Finland, from September 22-26, 2025. The tour will explore innovative approaches in these areas that can inspire positive change in Canadian communities. Participants will have the opportunity to expand their community of practice by connecting with professionals from both Finland and Canada. The itinerary also includes time for reflection and discussion during meals and while traveling between sites. Participants are expected to come from various sectors across Canada, including municipal, community, and research organizations with a commitment to affordable housing.
Why Helsinki?
Helsinki is renowned for its progressive policies and innovative solutions in housing and homelessness. With a strong emphasis on social welfare and a well-established housing model, Helsinki offers a unique perspective on how to effectively address homelessness. The city's "Housing First" approach, which prioritizes providing stable housing as a foundation for addressing other social issues, has been particularly influential. Additionally, Helsinki has made significant strides in integrating technology into housing solutions, as well as in the development of sustainable and affordable housing. These aspects make Helsinki an ideal location for a study tour focused on learning and inspiration.
Learning Outcomes
Participants will:
- develop ideas for new program models,
- develop strategies to improve and innovate existing programming, and
- expand their professional network, both domestically and internationally.
Accommodation
Hilton Helsinki Strand
John Stenbergin Ranta 4
00530 Helsinki
Finland
A preferred rate will be available for our group for the duration of the study tour. If participants wish to extend their stay in Helsinki, the preferred rate will also be available for additional nights. Participants will receive the booking link once their application is accepted.
Deadlines and cancellation policy
Deadline for application and $100 non-refundable deposit: December 31st
Deadline for full payment: February 14th
Deadline for cancellation: Before March 14th to receive a refund minus the non-refundable deposit. After March 14th no refund is available, however your ticket can be transferred to another person at your organization.
There are 15 spots available for CHRA members and 15 spots for CIH members. Due to high demand, we may limit the number of applicants from a single organization to ensure equal opportunity. Additional applicants from the same organization will be placed on a waitlist and notified in late February or early March. For more information about membership, please contact info@chra-achru.ca.
Presented in partnership with
