CSSEA invites members and associates to register now for the 2026 AGM and Conference, taking place October 14–16 at the Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel.
This year’s conference theme, Leading for Change, reflects the sector’s ongoing commitment to navigating an evolving landscape with innovation, resilience and purpose. Guided by the AGM Member Planning Committee, this year’s program will feature timely and practical sessions on topics including CSSEA’s new collective agreements and the collective bargaining process, partnering with First Nations communities, building leadership capacity and understanding the legal implications of artificial intelligence. The conference will also feature a keynote address sponsored by CSBT and delivered by internationally-recognized innovation expert Lee-Anne McAlear. Drawing on her expertise in leadership, innovation and human-centred workplaces, Lee-Anne will explore why, despite rapid advances in automation and artificial intelligence, an organization’s greatest competitive advantage remains its people.
Notification of Annual General Meeting
CSSEA will be holding its Annual General Meeting on October 14 from 2:30-4:00pm following Divisional Sessions that will take place earlier that same afternoon. Members who are attending the AGM are also required to register for their respective Divisional Session.
Community Social Services Awards of Excellence Luncheon
Attendees who register for either the full conference or Thursday, October 15 package will also have the opportunity to attend the Community Social Services Awards of Excellence Luncheon, sponsored by TELUS (It is also possible to purchase single tickets to the luncheon). We look forward to sharing the stories of four new outstanding individuals who are making an impact in community social services and celebrating their achievements with all.
Take Advantage of Early Registration
Despite the continually rising operational costs of organizing a conference, CSSEA has made the decision to hold our conference fees at least year’s rates. We know rising costs affect everyone and CSSEA is committed to ensuring our event remains an accessible, high-value experience for members. We encourage you to register by August 14 to take advantage of preferential early bird pricing and to secure first pick of sessions, some which are limited to 25 participants.
CSSEA has also negotiated a number of discounted rooms at a special conference group rate of $319 per night for a standard room. Rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis until September 14 and can be reserved online using our exclusive reservation page. Please note that the conference will be taking place concurrent to a major five-night concert that will affect room prices around downtown Vancouver, so it is unlikely CSSEA will be able to negotiate additional rooms at the current rate after our room block is sold out.
Program, registration and hotel booking details can be found on our conference website. If you have any questions, please contact Doris Sun, Director of Communications, at dsun@cssea.bc.ca. We look forward to seeing you in Vancouver this fall!