We understand that it takes a community to raise a child, and that’s why we’re excited to be working closely with other community organizations as part of the ICYS initiative to help build awareness and support for youth in Burnaby. Through community capacity development, St. Leonard’s aims to help create a culture that understands youth issues and values the participation of youth in Burnaby. We work collaboratively with other organizations to provide youth with an opportunity to take an active role and develop a sense of community responsibility.
Building a Supportive Community
A supportive and understanding community can help young people feel that they have a place, and that there are organizations and people they can turn to for help. Community capacity development efforts can help achieve this environment by raising awareness and support for youth. Through closer collaboration and increased communication among social service providers to create a comprehensive and integrated range of youth services, and through community information programs to improve awareness about youth issues and youth advocacy services, we are building a supportive community for youth in Burnaby.
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Agency Collaboration
Our approach to community development supports existing community assets and builds on Burnaby’s strengths, including its strong network of social service agencies, community-oriented and responsive local government agencies, and cultural and multicultural community agencies. St. Leonard’s works collaboratively with these agencies to enhance service integration, reduce fragmentation and address service gaps. Together we are able to achieve results that could not be achieved by one organization alone.Specifically, we work closely with and are an active participant in Burnaby community committees and councils that address social issues in Burnaby. Another important focus is the development of relationships with the multicultural community in Burnaby, through collaboration and partnerships with multicultural organizations. We also work to coordinate youth programming with the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
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Community Outreach
As part of ICYS, we have initiated an outreach program to create awareness and support for youth by connecting with the community through existing organizations, networks and groups, such as business organizations, service clubs, faith-based groups, seniors groups, and parent groups. St. Leonard’s plans, organizes and implements activities like community forums, workshops, guest lectures, panel discussions, presentations and open houses. Through events such as these, we address youth issues and discuss topics of interest, like bi-cultural parenting and bullying.
Interested in contributing to community capacity development?
We believe that together we can build a better future for our youth and for our community and would like to hear from anyone who is interested in helping us build a caring community. Please contact us to find out how to get involved in community capacity development.