Surrey604 Feature: The 50 Women of Options - Karen Conyers

On February 17th, Options Community Services launched its first capital fundraising campaign to raise $1.5 million for affordable housing units. The money is currently being raised through a partnership with 50 local women, all of who have pledged to raise $25,000 each in support of this project. Surrey 604 is encouraging public support of this project by featuring each of the 50 Women of options. Today we introduce Karen Conyers, Personal Real Estate Corporation, team Lead for Conyers and Associates, Chair for Kindred Community Farm Sanctuary. 

Tell us your name, a bit about who you are, and your background? *

My name is Karen Conyers, I am a 50+ year resident of the White Rock/South Surrey area and have been a full-time Realtor since 2008. I am the Chair of Kindred Community Farm Sanctuary in South Surrey, and a past Director on the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. I have been an active volunteer most of my adult life in a variety of ways. 

What is your job title/what company or organization are you with? *

I am a Realtor with Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Canada, and a Personal Real Estate Corporation. 

What achievements in your life are you most proud of? *

When I think of achievements that I am most proud of, I think of being a Director at the FVREB for 5 years. I am also proud of my accomplishment in Chairing the Professional Standards Committee for two years. Most recently, my work in becoming Chair at Kindred Community Farm Sanctuary has been a rewarding experience.

Why did the Women of Options affordable housing campaign resonate with you? Why are you supporting this initiative? *

Working with people and their housing needs, I know how important having household security is. Having a safe place to live, sleep, eat and wash goes a long way to the reduction of stress. A night of good sleep is paramount to being able to function in our society. A place to have food storage – the struggle for survival lessens. A place to wash and store clothing – helps with confidence. All of these can lead to 1) feeling better overall, 2) an increase in well being mentally, 3) better able to focus on finding/keeping work, 4) children are safer in a secure environment, and 5) for women who are fleeing horrible situations, this gives them the necessary means to get the available assistance. I am supportive of this initiative because my Mom and two sisters lived with abusive men and there was nowhere for them to go at that time.