SECA believes in the power of community-driven change. Thank you to all those who joined in our innovative Walk and Talk programs as well as the Pop-Up installations over the summer to learn about how we could turn spaces into places through the power of placemaking. These programs were the nascence of a movement that has begun to empower residents of Shawnee Evergreen to take charge of their future and actively participate in shaping the spaces around us. See the videos by scanning the QR code.
On our walks together, ideas emerged organically with experts from J5 Design on hand to stretch our thinking and fertilize the discussions by sprinkling in research tidbits and sharing experiences from other communities. We saw our community through fresh eyes together. The talks provided space for a deeper dive. These were designed to be dynamic and inclusive, balancing structured activities with open-ended discussions. A collaborative environment was created where agreement and disagreement were both valued. By openly discussing differing views, we uncovered our community’s deeper needs and aspirations and found common ground.
Whether in a park, on a pathway, or near a transit stop, the Pop-Up installations were simple yet powerful. Helping us bring more voices into the conversation, they showcased the ideas already collected from previous Walks and Talks and offered a chance for spontaneous feedback.
As the summer progressed, we observed a shift—from residents being passive recipients of change to becoming active creators of our community’s future. We built a platform of understanding where every voice was valued, and every idea was considered in shaping our future. We were happy to see connections deepen, and a sense of ownership of the ideas and spaces grow. We broke down barriers, brought neighbours together to learn and to share their dreams for the community, and together we became more aware of the potential outside our doorsteps.
We’re incredibly excited about the ideas that have surfaced and the possibilities that lie ahead. This is just the beginning of a longer journey of learning and sharing, making Shawnee Evergreen a place where everyone feels they belong, and their ideas can flourish. Whether it’s a new community garden, a community hub with a mural that celebrates our diversity, or a safer pedestrian crosswalk, it is your ideas, your dreams, and your voice that will make our community thrive.
Together, we learned about our community in new ways; we unlocked valuable ideas and inspired the collection of actionable steps into an Idea Library in addition to other tools. Equipped with a new understanding and community support, this collection of curated ideas will guide us forward.
We are ready to share the Idea Library and other outcomes of this work with residents, and we hope you’ll attend the AGM to hear two speakers from J5 Design, Kristopher Kelly-Frere and Katie Saxon, who created and led the Walks and Talks programs. They are excited to present the learnings and the possibilities for a vibrant Shawnee Evergreen future. Don’t miss it!
SECA Annual General Meeting
October 28 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm
It’s been our busiest year ever. Attend to be part of the momentum; to hear what’s been accomplished and what we have planned. Join us as we acknowledge 30 years of SECA service to the community. Hear about the Walks and Talks and how we are taking action to make Shawnee Evergreen a place where we can all thrive.
Openings exist on our board and committees. You can make a difference in your neighbourhood by joining with us in this rewarding community work. Please email [email protected] to learn more. Consider scheduling an introductory “get to know you” cup of coffee with our President to explore the possibilities.
55+ Healthy and Happy Programs
The 55+ programs and presentations relaunched in September after a summer break. Whether you are interested in developing more confidence through a technology class, attending a senior focused presentation, joining a social game of cards, or participating in a physical activity session, there is something for everyone. Check out what’s available by scanning the QR code.
Programs for Children and Youth
The Skate with Alien In-Line sessions were terrifically successful, and we were happy to see a growth in SECA participation. We have funding for new programs. What we are lacking is one or two more parents or grandparents on the Children and Youth team of the Programs Committee. Please contact [email protected] for more information and to volunteer.
Lastly, if you aren’t already receiving our e-newsletter, be sure to subscribe at the QR code below.
Thanks!
SECA Board of Directors
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