The story begins in 1992, just two years after SDHF—then known as the Nonprofit Federation for Housing and Community Development—was founded. The first Annual Conference was a modest, single-day event featuring a keynote address, workshops, an exhibit area, and a networking reception. It was a humble beginning, but it carried a powerful vision: to create a community where everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home.

Over the years, that vision blossomed, and the conference grew with it. By 1994, the third annual conference introduced an awards event. This would eventually evolve into the prestigious Ruby Awards in 1996, celebrating the best in affordable housing. Attendance steadily increased, reaching over 250 by 1997 and 280 by 2000. In 2001, to mark a decade of success, the organization took on a new name, San Diego Housing Federation and with it celebrated the 10th Annual Conference, “A Decade of Partnerships: Creating Affordable Housing,” held at Point Loma Nazarene University.

The conference continued to innovate to meet the needs of a growing industry. In 2003, it introduced five distinct educational tracks, expanding to six by 2007. The 2008 conference, themed “Challenges, Changes and Opportunities,” set a new attendance record with 348 attendees, reflecting the community’s shared commitment to the cause even during difficult times.

In 2011, for the 20th annual conference, a new half-day institute for beginners was added focusing on affordable housing 101. The following year, the Resident Services Institute was introduced. These additions underscored the conference's role as a vital hub for professional development and knowledge sharing.

The momentum continued until the unprecedented challenge of 2020 and 2021, when the conference was held virtually due to COVID. But the spirit of collaboration was not lost. In 2022, the community came together once again for a triumphant return to an in-person event at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina.

The conference is a living testament to the dedication of its members. In 2024, the institutes were spun off into their own standalone events, allowing the main conference to focus on its core mission. As we look ahead to 2025, we are celebrating a remarkable 35 years of building, advocating, and inspiring.

This is more than just a conference; it's a movement. It's the story of a community that believed in a better future and built it, one home at a time. The legacy is still being written, and you can be a part of it.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this year's conference. Tickets are still open until FRIDAY OCTOBER 3RD!

More information: HERE