Sarah Paul’s commitment to affordable housing emerged from her deep-rooted interest in environmental sustainability. Recognizing the interconnectedness of housing, climate, and social equity, Sarah saw that affordable housing is an essential component of a sustainable future. “Cities need to change,” she shared. “For the environment, that includes providing more low-carbon, climate resilient and affordable housing close to transit.” Before her philanthropic involvement, Sarah spent much of her career in environmental policy, which shaped her understanding of sustainable urban development. This background has provided her with insight into the connections between affordable housing, climate policy, and income equity.
Her vision for urban spaces emphasizes both environmental responsibility and the pressing need to close income disparities, which she believes is essential for creating vibrant, inclusive cities. In addition to her philanthropic support, Sarah also serves on the board of Partners for Affordable Housing, bringing her strategic insight and passion for sustainable development to the organization’s mission.
Six years ago, Sarah and her family launched the Sarah and Cary Lavine Family Foundation, motivated by a desire to tackle issues of economic inequality, with affordable housing becoming a central focus. It was through networking in the philanthropic community that she connected with Partners for Affordable Housing (Partners), a group that embodies the Power of P4 approach Sarah values deeply. “The idea of bringing public, private, philanthropic, and social profit partners together resonated with me,” she said. “This is a complex issue, and real change only happens when everyone works collectively.”
Sarah first learned of the Calgary Collaborative Capital Campaign (formerly known as Resolve) and was inspired by its unified approach to affordable housing. She envisioned a similar platform for Toronto—one that could integrate investment, raise awareness, and share knowledge across Canada to collectively address housing needs.
Sarah’s involvement with Partners isn’t just about financial support. She views it as a pathway to amplify the cause of affordable housing across Canada, sparking broader interest and investment. Her contributions aim to build a community of support for affordable housing, where others can rally and find tangible ways to contribute. Inspired by collaborative models, Sarah envisions Partners as a vital hub, directing community efforts towards developing and preserving affordable housing.
“I hope Partners becomes a centre point for those who, like us, want to make cities more welcoming, affordable and vibrant,” she shares, seeing the organization as a catalyst for collective action. For Sarah, the unique potential of Partners lies in its commitment to bring in multiple voices, invest ethically and expand knowledge. Her hope is that by sharing her story and support, others who understand the affordable housing issue from multiple perspectives will feel empowered to contribute to the movement.