Community Engagement

Stakeholder input was collected from a diverse mix of clients, families, service partners, people who are differently-abled, Elders, the Indigenous arts and culture community, nearby Wolastoqey and Mi’Kmaq communities, Indigenous health researchers, cultural and capital programming experts, Indigenous social development organizations, tourism and events organizations, community organizations, and advocates from various government ministries. Over the course of this engagement, over 100 Indigenous people and organizations were consulted and provided advice.

Needs assessment began in 2017 with over 18 different workshops, focus groups, and engagement sessions. Community engagement sessions to explore Awitgati began in 2020 and included multiple town-halls, interviews, workshops, and focus groups. Participants in these sessions were mostly Indigenous.

A Gender Based Analysis + lens was used to solicit and interpret a diverse range of ideas, opinions, and feedback for what the centre could and should be.

The project is a testimonial to the power of collaboration and grass-roots community led approach. We received over 37 letters of support from a wide cross-section of community organizations, institutions, representatives, and elected officials.

The spirit of collaboration will continue over the coming months as we develop a community benefits plan with the aim to build capacity and bring together local expertise during the construction process.