Inclusive Communities Project

Previously titled: Community Conversations on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

In 2021/2022, in partnership with Northumberland United Way, we engaged 40+ different collaborators from agencies, businesses and the broader community to explore the concept of inclusive communities. We wanted to start a fulsome conversation around the topics of equity, diversity and inclusion. Our goal was to gain a better understanding of how our region is doing in this regard and get direction from the people who live here about how to improve moving forward. We want to build stronger partnerships with organizations, businesses, elected officials and individuals to  build our collective capacity as a vibrant, caring and contributing community.

To do this, we held a series of seven conversations with over 150 people across the Hastings County, Prince Edward County & Northumberland County region. We listened to the stories of people from diverse backgrounds and experiences who shared their personal perspectives on topics like Indigenous representation, inclusive employment, inclusion for international students and newcomers, LGBTQ2S+ awareness and so much more. We asked participants for their ideas, their challenges and their triumphs. We learned from people, right here in our own backyard, about what is important in a community, what is valued and what inclusion really looks like.

In 2023 we developed/are developing a series of reports which includes an overall summary of the process and what we heard, leading into more comprehensive reports on specific topics such as: Representation Matters, Community Awareness, Education & Learning Opportunities, Belonging & Inclusion and Collaboration.  Each report will have actionable ideas for making our community more inclusive.

United Way HPE is committed to embracing the ideas and leading change where appropriate.

How to connect with us:

If this is something that you are interested in please contact Kaitlyn Lalonde, Outreach & Impact Coordinator and she would be happy to chat with you further about the project klalonde@unitedwayhpe.ca or 613-962-9531