James began his work in the homelessness and housing sector in British Columbia as an extension of his education and early career in public health. While working as part of the BC Ministry of Health’s Patient-Reported Experiences Measurement Steering Committee in 2014, James was tasked with designing and implementing a survey of hospital inpatients across the province. James learned the value of meaningful community engagement, quality outcome data, and involving the users of services in decisions about their care. Much of his recent career has been applying these core values and principles to homelessness services, including work with Progressive Housing Society since 2016.
About Me:
Education & Training
James Caspersen launched his career in the homelessness and housing sector in British Columbia, a mission-driven trajectory that evolved organically from his foundational education and early professional experiences in public health. This career path showcases an inherent passion for community service, combined with a solid grounding in public health principles, creating a potent synergy that has propelled his impactful work in addressing homelessness and housing issues.
Back in 2014, James found himself in a significant position at the BC Ministry of Health’s Patient-Reported Experiences Measurement Steering Committee. Here, he was entrusted with an immense responsibility: designing and implementing a comprehensive survey of hospital inpatients across the province. This project required a deep understanding of the healthcare system, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to capture nuanced patient experiences accurately. The challenge was immense, but James, equipped with his knowledge and determination, rose to the occasion.
During this demanding project, James absorbed vital lessons that would shape the course of his future career. He experienced firsthand the transformative power of meaningful community engagement. He saw how active collaboration could break barriers, build bridges, and foster a sense of belonging. He discovered that quality outcome data, when meticulously collected and carefully analyzed, could drive tangible improvements in healthcare services and patient experiences. Most importantly, he realized the profound value of involving service users in decision-making processes about their own care.
Informed by these invaluable insights, much of James’s recent career has been devoted to applying these core values and principles to homelessness services. He has skillfully translated these lessons from the healthcare realm to the homelessness sector, pioneering strategies that prioritize user input and data-driven decision making.
A key part of his mission has been his association with the Progressive Housing Society since 2016. Here, James has continued to apply and refine his principles, working relentlessly to improve homelessness services. His contributions to the Society and the broader community reflect his unwavering commitment to social welfare and his deep belief in the potential for change.
