Creativity and community engagement bloom in Strathcona Heights common rooms

Fatima Zahra Mounfaloti

End of year feasts

Strathcona Heights held two events to close off 2024. The first was a festive holiday meal. The gathering, supported by OCH (Ottawa Community Housing) and SHCHC (Sandy Hill Community Health Centre), provided a space for neighbours to share laughter and enjoy a delicious meal catered by Krackers Catering.

The second event was hosted as part of the PEERspective Program, a grassroots initiative supported by the Community Development Framework and Britannia Woods Community House, designed to empower residents through peer-led engagement. Held at Conservation Co-Operative Homes Inc., this community potluck was spearheaded by two dedicated residents who sought to create a space where neighbours could contribute homemade dishes representing their diverse cultural backgrounds. The potluck featured an impressive array of international cuisine, including Moroccan fish tagine, Italian lasagna, Middle Eastern baked treats, perogies, and more. The dishes also encouraged storytelling, as attendees exchanged the history behind their dishes and traditions. With continued support from OCH, SHCHC, and dedicated residents, Strathcona Heights is set to see even more opportunities for engagement and collaboration this year.

New resident-led initiatives

The SHCHC continues to foster community engagement, and one local resident is taking that mission to new heights. Lori Cere, a dedicated community member from Strathcona Heights, recently completed the Creating Change We Want training offered by the Community Development Framework. Equipped with the skills to navigate and organize community events, Lori has received $500 in funding to support the implementation of four engaging activities for the neighbourhood.

The first of these activities, a Meet and Greet Breakfast, was held on January 25. Residents gathered to prepare and enjoy a meal together, strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of unity. During the event, Lori introduced the Dotmocracy exercise—a participatory decision-making method that allowed residents to vote on potential activities while also contributing their own ideas. This inclusive approach ensured that upcoming events would reflect the interests and preferences of the community.

Following the success of the breakfast, Lori, with the support of residents Mary-Lou and Sylvie, organized a second event on February 22: an exciting Paint Night on Wooden Bird Boxes. This creative gathering encouraged residents to express themselves artistically while enjoying snacks and socializing with their neighbours.

With two more activities on the horizon, the initiative is already demonstrating the impact of grassroots community leadership and exemplifies how training and funding can empower residents to create meaningful change and strengthen bonds.