SECA is continuing to build on the movement that emerged during the summer’s Walks and Talks programs as well as the Pop Ups, where residents began to actively participate in shaping our community spaces and began to take charge of the future of Shawnee Evergreen.
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 and our love of nature, or a safer pedestrian crosswalk, it is your dreams, your voice, and our collective effort that will make our community thrive. See the video recaps from the Walks and Talks at the QR code below.
At our recent AGM we were entertained and educated by Kristopher and Katie from J5 Design who shared what was learned through the Walks and Talks programs and introduced the Idea Library and other tools that were created, based on the resident opinions gathered. The next step is to prioritize which projects to start with and dig into bringing the identified projects to life. And that’s where you come in.
Have you ever heard, “If it is to be, it’s up to you and me”? Isn’t that the truth! Please consider this as your invitation to get involved in creating more welcoming and more functional gathering spaces for all to enjoy. We are looking for a broad range of contributors. You don’t need to be an engineer or a project manager to support this work, although those skill sets would be welcome. Some individuals will contribute more or less than others and that’s fine. Please email [email protected] to tell us how you would like to get involved in making SECA a more neighbourly community that their friends admire.
Along with more active participation, we are thankful that residents are developing a sense of ownership of SECA property and our community amenities.
• The SECA chairs have been stored for the winter. We look forward to seeing them back in parks and along pathways in the spring.
• Thanks to the dedication of one special volunteer, the Little Free Libraries have received some TLC this fall with new paint and minor repairs completed.
• Our A-frame signs continue to be a valued source of information for residents. If you see one of these tipped over, and you are able to set it up again, please do so.
Community Campfires
Monthly chances to gather in the great outdoors every month from December through to April have become part of the fabric of our community over the past five years. This year we are looking to create a Campfire Team to assist in the delivery of these much-loved events. The SECA Events Committee will plan and lead, and they are looking for some hardy individuals to assist on event days. Please email [email protected] if you would like to join the Events Committee or the Campfire Team. Thanks!
55+ Healthy and Happy Programs
Our seniors’ programs continue to gain momentum thanks to the efforts of our Seniors’ Program Committee. Whether you are interested in developing more confidence through a technology class, attending a senior focused seminar, joining a social game of cards or participating in a physical activity session, there is something for everyone. Check out what’s available at the QR code.
Parents and Grandparents
We need your input on our Programs Committee for Children and Youth. Inline skating, SOGO Adventure Running, and Bushcraft sessions were all popular this year. We have the funding; we just need a couple more individuals on the team to enable us to offer more regular programming for your children and grandchildren.
Calling All Gardeners!
Our emerging gardening group is looking for a few more volunteers to join their team. All sorts of skills are needed to make this project a reality. The goal is to build a community garden and what that looks like is up to the team. Garden plots to rent, a fruit forest, a pollinator pathway, container gardens, educational sessions for children, youth, and others are all possibilities. Email [email protected] to be part of this exciting initiative.
Stay In the Loop!
Use the QR code below to subscribe to our e-newsletter. Follow us on Facebook (@shawneeevergreenyyc) and on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thisisyourseca). Please delete our old email address from your contacts ([email protected]) and use [email protected] to reach us. Look for posters for upcoming events and programs at our message centres; on our Little Free Libraries and A-frame signs in selected parks.
SECA Board of Directors
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