Oral History Project, initiated in 2017 to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Social Development Centre Waterloo Region, continues this May through collaboration with the Commons Studio to record the testimonies about the contribution Trudy Beaulne made over 18 years as the Executive Director of the organization.
On April 20, 2018 Trudy Bealunewas recognized as one of the recipients ofthe Leading Women Leading Girls Award by the Ontario Ministry for the Status of Women. Trudy's daughters,
Laura and Rebecca, received the award.
The Oral History Project will capture Trudy’s work and vision that shaped the Social Development Centre in its unique community building role. Everyone who has been involved or impacted by this work is welcome to share a unique piece of history. If you want to contribute to the Oral History Project get in touch with us sdcwr@waterlooregion.org.
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 
