Equity and Inclusion in Education

Sep 26 2017

SPNO LogoSocial Planning Network of Ontario is opening up a discussion about equity and inclusion in education across 14 communities. In Waterloo Region, we invite students, parents and community members as equity advocates to join teachers, administrators and researchers to create strategies and share resources to improve student well-being. We would like to hear from you as we move towards a unique response that resonates with our community. If you wish to join the exploration and action, get in touch with us sdcwr@waterlooregion.org / 519-579-3800.

Traynor Park is Back

Sep 20 2017

Traynor Park DesignThe work of Traynor-Vanier tenants and management, together with Social Development Centre staff and volunteers made a neighbourhood dream come true! Traynor Park has been removed at the end of 2013 and after advocacy and community consultations in 2017, it is being rebuilt after the ideas brought forward by the residents.

Festival of Neighbourhoods 2017 Celebration

Sep 14 2017

September E-NeighbourJoin us at the 2017 Celebration at Kitchener City Hall on November 19th from 1pm to 3pm to find out how neighbours came together this year, to learn from each other’s experience and be inspired by those who take action to improve their neighbourhoods. Remember to register your inclusive neighbourhood gatherings for a ballot at the Festival Celebration draw for one of two $20,000 neighbourhood improvement grants from the City of Kitchener. Find out more in September E-Neighbour edition

Perspectives on Peace

Sep 7 2017

Perspectives on Peace Join us for an evening of discussion and networking. We will look into diverse perspectives and actions on peace building in Kitchener-Waterloo. Program includes a panel discussion, dinner (by donation), and a chance to speak with organizers of the various Peace and Social Justice organizations in Waterloo Region. Our Executive Director, Trudy Beaulne will be speaking on a panel for this event.

Call Out: Pedestrian Feedback on ION

Aug 30 2017

LocationDescriptionWe are asking for your feedback about specific pedestrian access points along the ION Light Rail Transit (LRT) route. We will compile your feedback and share it with the community and local decision makers.  The Social Development Centre Waterloo Region, in collaboration with members of the Disabilities and Human Rights Group, has developed this map showing all locations where tracks cross pedestrian access. The intention is to better understand pedestrians’ experience (on foot or wheels) of this new infrastructure. You can either give your general input throug this short survey, or open the map we created and give feedback on specific crossings along the ION route. If you have questions about this project or difficulties accessing the map and/or feedback form contact Grace Scheele, Social Development Centre Waterloo Region at 519-579-3800 or grace@waterlooregion.org.

Downtown Kitchener Change Photovoice

Aug 29 2017

Photovoice ProjectThe Disabilities and Human Rights Group recently submitted a contribution to "Collaborative Solutions to Inequitable Urban Change – Photovoice Exercise", a research project organized by a University of Waterloo team. This study, which focuses on experiences of urban change in downtown Kitchener, aligns well with the current work being done by the Disabilities and Human Rights Group that is exploring impact of the new ION Light Rail Transit on pedestrian access along the route.

Bill 148: the Fair Workplaces

Jul 22 2017

The Government of Ontario needs to establish clearly and firmly that Ontario needs businesses that are about more than profit. If companies and institutions can’t sustain fair and decent pay levels and workplaces, they should not be doing what they are doing. Exploitive business practice is not an adequate foundation for sustaining our society. We have long passed the point of everyone pitching in and making things work to a tipping point of exploitation creating a seductive situation that few employers can ignore. Bill 148 should be legislation that will require we stop “the race to bottom”. Our submission addresses the proposed legislation through gaps to be addressed, concerns about the burden on employees and integration with other legislation and provincial government programs. 

Sparking Neighbourhood Connections

Jul 20 2017

Prospect Park Engagement 2017July E-Neighbour brings you inside our summer engagement activities we call outreach blitzes! Quick and friendly power up in a neighbourhood can overcome some barriers that make it seem difficult to reach out. This year, while exploring potential areas for engagement, we found out again and again that most neighbours actually do want to connect and live in the best neighbourhood they can create. Early Bird registration deadline was moved to July 28th. Tell us about a get-together you organized and join the Festival of Neighbourhoods family. 

50th Annual General Meeting Notice

Jun 4 2017

50th AGM noticeWe are celebrating 50 years of social innovation in Waterloo Region. Our Annual General Meeting starts at 6:00pm and by 7pm we will review the 2016 Annual Report, share a 100 Year Perspective, welcome new members of the Board of Directors and the Community Social Planning Council, as well present the 2017 Social Development Awards. RSVP by Friday June 23 to admin@waterlooregion.org or call 519-579-3800. 
To register for the AGM, become a member, purchase a ticket for
the Tunnel In Revival or make a donation through the new
Social Development Centre Online Store.

Tunnel In Revival

Jun 2 2017

Tunnel InThe Tunnel In Coffee House was a popular music hub and outlet for youth in the 1960s and 1970s. Many original Tunnel In performers are returning for the 2017 Revival. Performers include Daniel Kramer, Darrell Martin, Glen Soulis, Helen Basson, Terry Jones (Perth County), Ted Parkinson, Philomene Hoffman, Jeffrey Beckner and more. There will also be a silent auction and snacks. This event is a fundraiser to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Social Development Centre Waterloo Region. June 24th, AGM is from 6pm to 7pm and the doors open at 7:30pm for the benefit concert at Trinity United Church in Kitchener! Tickets and donations through the online store, over the phone or at the Social Development Centre!