Chestermere’s not-for-profit sector and city council are collaborating to ensure all gaps in the community are filled.
The sector previously presented the work being done in the community to council, and council asked how they can better help the sector in meeting the needs of the residents they serve.
“Council was introduced to the work the not-for-profit sector is doing as an efficient, effective, and collaborative group comprised of organizations that are skilled in identifying community needs, filling gaps in services that facilitate a proficient referral network and are continuously bringing a significant return on investment to the community,” Chestermere Public Library executive director Miranda Johnson said.
“The sector hopes to work in true partnership with the city, and we’re incredibly excited to know that council holds that same feeling,” Camp Chestermere assistant director Collin Daws said.
Currently, a lack of knowledge and awareness of the scope of work being done, lack of communication in strategic plans, events, programs and services, changes in staffing, and Red Tape on bylaws, applications, policies, and procedures impede the sector.
The sector indicated that an executive committee and community consultation could help with some of the challenges they face.
The sector can improve the Human Services Advisory Board (HSAB) funding process by having pre-application funding discussions as all organizations have different funding needs and utilize different funding sources and strategies, Johnson said.
In addition, outcome measurement where organizations share Family and Community and Support Services (FCSS) and United Way outcome measurement tools, grant submission feedback, and exploring multi-year funding, can be explored.
Community Support Services are currently supporting the sector by providing funding, facilitating inner agency meetings, and sitting on various coalitions.
“While there is an existing relationship between the city and the sector, we believe there could be room for improvement,” Daws said. “The sector desires to work with the city to determine what gaps in services there are in the city’s social framework, in doing so, we aim to improve the flow of communication between the city and the sector.”
The sector believes there could be more support in sharing information, resources, and infrastructure, such as providing organizations with a reliable internet connection, signage, translation services, marketing support, and human resources support.
“We do want to help support council as well, and we hope that there will be an existing synergistic relationship between council and the sector,” Daws said.
Going forward, the sector is interested in providing feedback and suggestions when council and city staff are reviewing bylaws, applications, permits, event procedures, and presenting to the Committee of the Whole on a regular basis to update council on the sector’s progress in the community.
“Our staff and volunteers have a wide range of expertise in these matters, and we believe that any feedback will be beneficial to both council and the sector. We hope these conversations can bring an efficient way of running events for Chestermere and its residents,” Daws said.
Adding, “In the end, this presentation is the feedback of one meeting, we see it as just the beginning of a healthy relationship with council, and we hope to develop a strong relationship, and work together to meet the needs of Chestermere.”
