The Social Development Centre Waterloo Region has been the host of many all-candidates sessions and has learned that a good way to share knowledge is to bring people together in a meaningful conversation. Small group conversations place us in a more equal position and open a wider space for exchange. The candidates are encouraged to ask questions and residents are encouraged to answer them! As one of the candidates in 2014 put it:
“What a relief not to be pushed against each other but have a true chance to know the people and the issues better!”
To prepare for a more traditional all-candidates session, see the guide from the Income Security Advocacy Centre. If you wish to organize a participatory meet-the-candidates session, see our quick guide and enjoy the process!
Oral History Project, initiated in 2017 to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Social Development Centre Waterloo Region, continues this May through collaboration with 
ALIVe Group had a joint meeting with Poverty Free KW group on March 23rd. The meeting was dedicated to the topic of affordable housing and the increasing costs of living that make it impossible for low-income earners and social assistance recipients not to go into debt without much hope of repaying it. The need for more affordable housing has set some federal and provincial wheels in motion, but as the policies are being developed, many of the current needs will remain unmet.
A much needed minimum wage boost has come to Ontario. The Government recognized the impact of higher labour costs on the small business. The nonprofit sector requires similar consideration! The Social Planning Network of Ontario urges you to tell your MPP and to share the campaign in your networks: 
Only being rooted in lived experience of people in the region can we aspire to be successful in fulfilling our mandate. Trudy Beaulne's approach to social policy development was anchored firmly in support and collaboration with small groups where people came to find resources, to share what they know and to take action together. Groups such as 
The City of Kitchener and Region of Waterloo joint project team has presented an at-grade gated pedestrian crossing as a preferred solution during the open house on December 2. Due to the safety concerns and the most direct access to the essential commercial area, the preferred crossing would require a new formal fenced walkway north of the LRT and a new walkway access the commercial area to the south of the tracks leading to the crossing with the traffic lights. Residents can review other alternative crossings presented and 
