In the heart of Vancouver, Soroptimist House is breaking new ground with a project for women, by women. Driven by a dedicated team, 135 new affordable rental homes are being built for women and single mothers.
The beginning of Soroptimist House
The project is led by Soroptimist International Vancouver and Purpose Driven Development.
Watching this project come out of the ground and the exceptional all-women team we’ve brought together has been nothing short of inspiring.
- Carla Guerrera, CEO of Purpose Driven Development.
Soroptimist International Vancouver owned a 21-unit building on Cambie Street. But the building was old and needed to be rebuilt.
President Carla Busnardo believed the property could better support women in the community. After talking it through, the Soroptimist members agreed to redevelop the property.
Purpose Driven Development joined to help make the plan real.
Carla Guerrera then led a session to explore ideas and funding. Together, they created a plan specifically for women’s housing.
“We did a site visit the other day, and celebrated the cement being poured on the main floor!” says Carla Busnardo.
Rendering of the front entrance of an apartment building, with residents mingling, walking, and bicycling along the sidewalks.
She adds, “We are excited about this because it is a milestone in the foundation of the building. This also means that the structure will go up much faster.”
Soroptimist House for the Future
When construction is finished, the building will be a safe place where women of all ages can connect. It will have shared spaces, like a rooftop patio, where neighbours can meet and make friends.
"We are creating a financial award that will help a woman who wants to get into the trades, get her education so we can see more on-site working women,” says Carla Busnardo.
She adds that when women have safe housing, they’re more likely to find space for new opportunities—like starting a career in the trades.
This project stands as a testament to what’s possible when purpose, partnership, and creative leadership come together.
- Carla Guerrera, CEO of Purpose Driven Development.
The project should be completed in the Fall of 2026. Learn more about Soroptimist House.
Photo credit: Purpose Drive Development