success stories
Rural Transporation Group
Lack of transportation services and supports is the most commonly identified barrier to access in rural Wellington for families and individuals. This group came together to reduce the effect of this barrier and enhance accessibility through communication, collaboration and coordination among community stakeholders and agency partners.
The United Way worked very closely with the members of this group to put together a grant application for Ontario Trillium funding. This application was successful and has provided funding to hire a Rural Transportation Coordinator operating out of the Community Resource Centre in Fergus. This position has vastly improved the provision and coordination of transportation services in rural Wellington.
Alternative Education For Street-Involved Youth
United Way research (2004) found that due to new provincial standards and curriculum, more and more kids are “not making it” in school. The causes are varied – they may be due to homelessness, bullying, pregnancy and child rearing, addictions, mental health problems, behavioural issues, severe learning disabilities, complex family systems, development disorders, etc. Regardless of the causes, without an education, there is a greater likelihood that youth will encounter many challenges, such as competing in the job market, qualifying for social assistance, finding and maintaining quality housing and staying healthy.
In September 2004, the United Way held a Community Forum to discuss this research trend and emerging need. A recommendation was put forward to establish a community education program for street-involved youth.
Following the forum, Social Planning staff began working with a group of youth service providers which had been set up by a nurse practitioner at the Guelph Community Health Centre. The work of this group resulted in the opening of Give Yourself Credit, a community-based education program for street-involved youth aged 16 to 18 in February 2006.
Historical Accomplishments
Past social planning initiatives have also resulted in the establishment of the following programs in Guelph & Wellington:
- Community Information Guelph
- Rural Women’s Shelter
- Willowdale Day Care
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