Health News For South West


Monday, April 27, 2015
Grey Bruce Health Unit
Community Conversations in Grey Bruce

Highlights from 47 local Community Conversations identify what community means, the challenges facing communities and the opportunities and hopes for the future. The findings come out of community conversations held last year throughout Grey Bruce as over 400 people came together to talk about community and share their experiences. The highlights represent both general observations as well as issues specific to local communities.

Some common themes emerge from the conversations. Participants identified the strengths and benefits of communities; the friendship and support they receive from the community. Participants said Grey Bruce “is a safe place to live... beautiful environment... support the rural lifestyle... cooperate and accept people.”

Challenges include local economic development, affordable housing, need for enhanced resources, supporting youth and young families and increased leisure opportunities. People want “vibrant communities... that encourage young families to move here... growth and prosperity... things to do for all ages... jobs... transportation systems... affordable homes.”. The challenges helped focussed actions and next steps; looking at what should be foremost and how that can come about through supporting positive community change.

Community Conversations are part of a national research project, A 1000 Conversations to Shape our Future, in collaboration with Tamarack an Institute for Community Engagement. The aim of the project is to strengthen community connections; increase community engagement; build consensus on opportunities for shared action; and, support diverse community leadership.

The highlights are being presented today in Meaford as part of five Community Conversation Celebrations underway this week throughout Grey Bruce. Upcoming celebrations include:

  • Hanover – P&H Centre, April 28, 1:30-3:30 pm
  • Walkerton – St. Paul’s United Church, April 28, 6:30 – 8:30 pm  
  • Kincardine – Davidson Centre, April 29, 5:00 – 7:00 pm  
  • Wiarton – Salvation Army Church, April 30, 9:30-11:30 am

As well as interested individuals, representatives from various sectors representing not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, faith communities, senior groups, citizen groups, youth and arts and culture took part.

For further information call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

Attachment: Grey Bruce Community Conversations Highlights  

Media Contact:

Lynda Bumstead
Public Health Manager
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext 1463
l.bumstead@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca

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