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!

What is it like to be ALIV(e)?

May 29 2017

ALIV(e) GroupWhen they met on Friday May 19, 2017, the ALIV(e) group members discussed what they appreciated about the group, their peak experiences and ideas for change.

Members like being kept informed about what is happening in the community and in public policy related to poverty. They like meeting guest speakers and feel valued when they can contribute their knowledge from lived experience to improve services for everyone in the community.

50th Anniversary & Future Focus

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May 15 2017

Welcome Celebration 2016Looking to our past to set direction for our future! The Social Development Centre Waterloo Region (formerly Planning Council of Kitchener-Waterloo\Community Information Centre of Waterloo Region), incorporated in 1967. With a mission to cultivate community knowledge to advance social justice in Waterloo Region, the Centre keeps the community members informed, involved and prepared to act to make positive social change. 

With core values grounded in social justice, participatory democracy, community knowledge, diversity and relationship building, we participate in research on social issues, foster community involvement and information sharing. Our current activities kept a consistent focus over the 50 years.

Inclusion Challenge - One Idea for Inclusive Gatherings

May 10 2017

Inclusion ChallengeTake the Inclusion Challenge with us! Chose one idea that can make your neighbourhood get togethers more welcoming and accessible. In Festival of Neighbourhoods May E-Neighbour, we showcase more inclusive gatherings and hope to hear about your ideas. 

2017 Summer Student Positions

May 8 2017

Summer StudentsThe positions are open to students between 15 and 30 years who have just completed a year of full time study and are intending to pursue full time education in Fall 2017. We are looking to fill three 12 week positions, each 35h per week: Community Resource Associate, Social Planning Associate and Festival of Neighbourhoods Community Animator. Read more about the positions and submit an application including your resume and a cover letter stating the position you are applying to, why you are interested in that position and how your experience and skills make you a good candidate - by 12 noon on Wednesday May 24, 2017 to: Executive Director, Social Development Centre Waterloo Region 74 Frederick St., Kitchener ON N2H 3L7 Email: admin@waterlooregion.org 

Join Our Team!

May 5 2017

Join the Social Development Centre team by joining our Board of Directors or the Community Social Planning Council! Help sustain the Centre as a champion for social justice and citizen participation. We are seeking Board of Director candidates who reflect the diversity of the community and who have previous board experience and/or expertise in the areas of law, advocacy, accounting, social enterprise, and public relations. All Board members are members of the Community Social Planning Council.