Login

How We’re Governed

Non-profit co-operatives allow assets to be collectively governed by their members, ensuring that decisions reflect shared values and long-term community benefit rather than private profit. In the land co-operative, this governance model is upheld through a Board of Directors that represents the interests of the membership.

Board Members

The founding Island Unity Board of Directors currently comprises three (3) members, each selected for their expertise and deep understanding of the co-operative housing sector. As the co-op grows, additional Board members may be obtained to bring diverse skills and perspectives, strengthening its capacity to govern effectively and support sustainable development.

Angela Simpson

President

View Bio

Elizabeth Kelly

Vice President

View Bio

Mathieu Arsenault

Secretary/Treasurer

View Bio
Angela Simpson
President

Angela Simpson is a founding board member of Compass Nova Scotia. Angela has a strong voice and is enthusiastic about ensuring that co-operatives continue to be an affordable housing option. Angela credits co-operative housing for having kept her and her family from being homeless and is committed to ensuring that all persons who need affordable housing have access. Also, with having aging family members herself, she understands some of the struggles people face as they age, from wanting to stay in your home and community, being able to make the home accessible and fixed incomes. Angela works full-time in the tourism sector in Charlottetown and has a background in construction.

Elizabeth Kelly
Vice President

Elizabeth Kelly was originally introduced to co-operative housing in 2000, in Newfoundland and Labrador while attending University, as a single parent of two children. Elizabeth was a member and on the Board of Directors. She moved into co-operative housing on Prince Edward Island in 2014 and has been on the Board of Directors for approximately 9 years, holding the position of treasurer. Elizabeth’s chosen career is in Social Work. She holds a Bachelor and Master of Social Work, as well as an accounting certificate. Since being introduced to co-operative housing 25 years ago, it has been her preferred choice of housing as it fits very much with her values and ethics.

Mathieu Arsenault
Secretary/Treasurer

Mathieu Arsenault brings a rich blend of professional expertise and community engagement to the non-profit board, driven by a lifelong passion for creating positive social impact. Professionally, Mathieu works as a Service Designer at Davis Pier, a consulting firm dedicated to solving complex societal challenges by improving government policies, program delivery, and citizen experiences. In previous consulting contracts, Mathieu has worked on various housing projects, including a Canada-wide study on homelessness and affordable housing. As a landlord, he brings lived experience and firsthand knowledge of providing quality housing while recognizing the critical importance of ensuring everyone has a home. Mathieu also brings extensive experience in non-profit management. He founded multiple non-profits, including the PEI Ultimate Frisbee Association, Fusion Charlottetown (focused on retaining young talent), and Winter Love (dedicated to enhancing winter experiences for citizens). He has served as chair of the board for other organizations, contributing to both policy and governance development, and will bring this experience to the board.