1 Delta C ommunities in Action Delta Communities in Action is a community development initiative facilitated by local residents and practitioners, living and working in the community.

2 The DCIA is a grassroots initiative intended to; Bring together a wide range of partners Identify local issues Set goals and targets to improve the quality of community life Engage the community to bring about positive community change

3 Delta Communities in Action Phase One Identify Indicators of Sustainability The DCIA project got underway in 2003 by initiating a 10-month study designed to produce a community “snapshot,” highlighting Delta’s livability and quality of life.

4 Phase One A Sample of Indicators Studied  Population growth  Family income  Business starts  Health indicators  Working & commuting  Crime rates & crime prevention  Seniors well-being  Children and youth care  Post-secondary education & transition  Housing indicators: Housing starts, vacancy rates, secondary suites  Participation and volunteerism  Poverty

5 Phase One Identify Indicators of Sustainability The “snapshot,” proved to be an invaluable tool to; help raise public awareness promote dialogue about future directions assist in the establishment of community goals for the future.

6 Phase Two Setting Goals The DCIA undertook a rigorous process through 2004 to engage the community in local “round table,” discussions in an attempt to foster opportunities to promote community dialogue.

7 Phase Two Setting Goals The round table talks proved to be an important forum for local residents from all walks of life to; voice their needs and concerns exchange ideas and insights identify recommendations to help promote positive social change in Delta

8 Phase Two Setting Goals The predominate theme that immerged from of the community dialogue sessions was the community’s need for “Access.”  access to Health Care treatments not offered in Delta  access to transportation resources to better navigate the community  access to local Post Secondary education  access to affordable housing for young singles and families, parenting teens, and seniors  access to influencing community services / programming

9 Phase Three Achieving Solutions 1.The final Phase of the DCIA initiative is to leave a network in place that will provide the community with a viable process for community action. 2.An upcoming initiative to these ends is the scheduling of a comprehensive community forum

10 The solutions are within the community. Neither governments, nor business, nor the voluntary sector, or individual community members can do it on their own. We all need to work together and pool our resources to make an impact.” Delta community resident