Community-built housing begins with community action.
The Grande Prairie Residential Society has been entirely volunteer-run since it was incorporated in 1986. There has never been paid staff. Every one of our 87 housing units — from the 1987 Crystal Ridge duplexes to Margaret Edgson Manor — was planned, funded, built, and maintained through the work of people who showed up because they believed in the mission.
That started with Rose Pike, who lobbied politicians for 18 years to get accessible housing built in Grande Prairie. It started with Ernie and Ethel Oman, whose daughter Penny became quadriplegic in the mid-1970s and had to move to Edmonton because nothing existed here. It started with Pat Adams, who donated his architectural expertise as an unpaid consultant to design the first barrier-free homes north of Edmonton.
The fight Rose Pike began in the 1970s is still going. After the June 2025 fire at Margaret Edgson Manor, our all-volunteer board chose to rebuild — and they're doing it now. Whether you have professional skills or simply want to help, GPRS needs people who are willing to step up.
"Come try it out — see if it fits."
No experience required for most roles — we'll teach you what you need to know. What matters is showing up.
Help guide the Society's direction, vote on policy, and shape the future of accessible housing in Grande Prairie. Board members include community members and tenants.
Join one of seven committees to focus on an area that matches your skills — from budgeting and policy to marketing and maintenance.
Research and write grant proposals to help fund housing projects, maintenance, and community programs. Strong writing skills are an asset.
Help plan fundraising campaigns, community events, and donor outreach. Whether it's a raffle or a community gathering, your energy makes it happen.
Hands-on work keeping our housing in good shape — painting, minor repairs, groundskeeping, and seasonal upkeep across our three phases.
Become a member of the Grande Prairie Residential Society. Members attend the Annual General Meeting, vote on resolutions, and help set the organization's direction.
The GPRS board operates through seven standing committees. Each one focuses on a critical area of the Society's work. You don't need to be a board member to contribute to a committee.
Long-term vision, growth planning, and ensuring GPRS stays aligned with its mission as the community evolves.
Annual budgets, financial oversight, and ensuring responsible stewardship of the Society's resources.
Developing and reviewing housing policies, tenant agreements, and organizational governance.
Public communications, website content, social media, and raising awareness of GPRS in the community.
Programming and managing the shared community space at Margaret Edgson Manor — a hub for resident connection.
Managing donations, grant applications, financial reporting, and partnership with Grande Spirit Foundation.
Overseeing property upkeep, coordinating repairs, managing contractors, and planning capital improvements across all three phases.
These are especially useful — but we welcome anyone willing to learn and contribute:
Founding Advocate
Rose had cerebral palsy and spent 20 years at Central Park Lodge because accessible housing didn't exist. She lobbied politicians for 18 years until GPRS was formed. She was among the first residents of the Crystal Ridge duplexes in 1988.
Founding President & Treasurer
The Omans of Sexsmith knew the need personally — their daughter Penny became quadriplegic in the mid-1970s and had to move to Edmonton. Ernie served as the Society's first president from 1984 to 1986.
Board President since 1986
A former professional jockey left quadriplegic by a riding accident, Travis has served as president across multiple terms since 1986. He was among the first duplex residents and continues to lead the Society through the Margaret Edgson Manor rebuild.
Board Member since ~1990
Dale joined the board through his Canadian Paraplegic Association role around 1990 and served as president from 2000 to 2003. His grand-opening speech for Margaret Edgson Manor called the project "More than a Dream Come True."
Volunteer Architect
Pat donated his design expertise as an unpaid consultant, drawing on his experience with the QEII Hospital project. What he helped create was quietly historic: the first wheelchair-accessible housing built north of Edmonton.
Advocate & Benefactor
Margaret advocated tirelessly for accessible transportation from her wheelchair in Mission Heights. She died in 2002, and her brother Jim honoured her wish by donating $150,000 from her estate to fund what became Margaret Edgson Manor.
"Once it's built, people will say it's a good thing."
Whether you have professional skills to offer or simply want to be part of something that matters, GPRS welcomes you. The best way to start is to reach out — we'll find the right fit together.
Phone or email to express your interest. We'll connect you with the right committee or role.
Our Annual General Meeting is the best way to meet the board and see what GPRS is about. Check our news page for upcoming dates.
Latest News & UpdatesSociety members vote at the AGM, elect board members, and help shape organizational direction. Membership is open to the public.
Contact Us to Join