The formation of a new group that came about because of community discussions on the lack of settlement and welcoming services and support for newcomers.
Two community meetings (January and February 2013) with community and agency stakeholders to look at the need for a community response to improve supports and welcoming for newcomers, immigrants and refugees coming to the area.
The Welcoming Communities Initiative held two Forums in 2013:
2013 Grey Bruce Welcoming Communities Forum
A one-day forum (May 9, 2013) with 70 community stakeholders (agencies, business, community members) presented by the Grey Bruce Welcoming Communities Initiative. A Summary Report provided recommendations from round table discussions on needs and next steps.
2013 Welcoming Communities Forum 2
Learning from Others: A half day Forum (Nov.8, 2013) with presentations from Renfrew, Simcoe, and North Bay on their experience with Welcoming Communities and Local Immigration Partnership projects and their learning in rural communities. Funding: In kind funding (City of Owen Sound), volunteer contributions.
