In the face of declining school enrolment and an aging population, the Hornby Island community is rallying to rejuvenate its demographics.

The local Community Economic Enhancement Corporation (aka HICEEC) is providing leadership in making it more affordable and appealing for young families to establish themselves on the island. Initiatives that HICEEC is working on include:

• The Farris farmland trust which will establish publicly accessible garden allotments, market gardening space, and an area for farm animals.

• A low-cost housing alternative land development that will provide leased land for homesites, starting at $30,000.

• A hacker’s space with shared tools and workshop for its membership, including kids.

• A demonstration solar project at the iconic Recycling Depot’s Free Store.

• And of current interest, a Rural Living Conference where local residents will showcase what island life looks like after the summer visitors all leave.

The Sept. 26-27 conference, Home Grown Home Rural Living Conference, will provide a weekend of inspiration and information for self-reliant people wishing to create a rural life for themselves and their families.

A tour of some island homes is part of the Saturday agenda.

Long known as a haven for artists, musicians, creative thinkers, and community minded citizens, this laid-back event is showcasing why Hornby is known as the sweetest little island on the West Coast, for people of all ages.

More information in on Facebook: Home Grown Home Rural Living Conference.