Community Development

We are committed to working within communities to create innovative and sustainable change that positively impacts the social, economic and cultural fabric. Several of our members are certified planners, mediators and facilitators who specialize in leading community-wide change. We have partnered on a variety of projects including inter-agency collaborations, community wide strategic plans, youth recreation and arts initiatives, alternative education programs, lands and resource planning, and various projects to address mental health and social issues.

With specialized training in Charette style planning we are able to optimize your project dollars to ensure that workable plans are created in a time efficient way- typically 3-7 days! This approach to planning mobilizes community members and local resources in the creation of the strategic plan. Outside professionals with specific skills are brought on board to contribute their expertise as needed. The result is a high quality plan that can be used immediately!

• Strategic Planning & Charettes
• Inter-Agency Collaboration
• Facilitation & Mediation
• Project Design & Coordination
• Research & Needs Assessment

We would be happy to talk to you about your community development needs and how we can help your create the change you wish to see in your community.

" I learned how valuable it is to learn about other cultures that you may be working with"

- Participant, Ministry of Natural Resources Workshop Participant -

Example of Inter-Agency Collaboration

The agencies and organizations in Sioux Lookout who service individuals living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) asked New VU to assist in developing the Sioux Lookout FASD Service Delivery Network.  Over a 2 year period starting in Spring of 2009, New VU worked with over 20 partners to establish a network within the community and the region of North western Ontario.

Related News Article – FASD Workshop Benefits Local Groups

Acting on the premise that a person living with FASD does not have the ability to change their environment, that in fact the environment must change to meet the needs of the person, the partnership created the following Mission Statement:

To sustain a comprehensive service network aimed at effectively identifying
and responding to the unique needs of children, youth, adults and their families affected
by FASD in Sioux Lookout and the region.

Phase 1 of the project included creating a foundation to establish sustaining, effective change.  Partners within the Network worked diligently to assess the current situation and identify gaps and overlap in services.

Phase 2 of the project saw the creation of 5 Action Teams formed out of the various partners.  These teams focused on prevention, diagnosis, service integration, education and training, and legal support services.

Phase 3 is when the strategic assessment and planning was put into action, opening the door for sustainable, effective change to take place in Sioux Lookout and the region.

For detailed information on the project, the many outcomes and results of the hard work both professionals and families produced, please visit the Network’s web site: www.slfasdnetwork.com

"The leadership of New VU is excellent - keep those amazing efforts going and 
Sioux Lookout will be a great place!"

- Sioux Lookout FASD Service Delivery Network Workshop Participants -

"It was awesome - your gifts, perseverance, grace towards us and this community"

- Sioux Lookout FASD Service Delivery Network Workshop Participants -