Last summer, Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) conducted its most recent participant survey. These surveys aim to capture insight from the CNH community every two years and share what’s working, as well as areas of improvement.
After reviewing responses from 176 people, we are pleased to share our key findings from our 2024 survey.
65% of participants live in the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood. With nearly 80% of participants indicating they participated in CNH activities multiple times a week, this suggests that CNH has been successfully engaging local residents through various programs, including recreation, child care, Collingwood Days, RISE Community Health Centre, and more.
- 65% agree that CNH is a place where they feel belonging
- 63% have opportunities to become involved or give input into CNH’s future direction
- 46% met people of different cultures, ages and abilities
- 35% made new friends participating in programs at CNH
Results also indicate that CNH continues to help build a strong sense of connection and participation in the community.
So, how are we doing?
In 2023, CNH worked with an external consultant to define our current strategic plan. Our plan focused on three priority areas: Anti-oppression, advocacy and organizational foundation. Below is a summary of responses, based on the participant survey results, that indicate what we’re doing well and areas for improvement in each area.
1. Anti-oppression
What we’re doing well
- The survey indicates that CNH is seen as inclusive and welcoming by many participants. Participants frequently praised the kindness, professionalism, and helpfulness of the CNH staff, emphasizing the supportive atmosphere they foster.
- Participants reported meeting people from diverse backgrounds and feeling a sense of belonging. Many participants appreciated CNH’s role in fostering community engagement and inclusivity.
- Many programs cater to equity-seeking groups, including seniors, youth, and newcomers. Affordable and accessible programs are a significant strength with 41% of participants saying that the low cost of programs and services is essential to their participation.
Opportunities for improvement
- Some participants mentioned challenges in creating a culturally representative environment, including a lack of Indigenous representation and programming tailored for neurodivergent individuals, those with disabilities and middle-aged adults.
- Expanding outreach efforts to underrepresented groups and improving multilingual communication could enhance representation and accessibility.
2. Advocacy
What we’re doing well
- 65% of respondents feel they have opportunities to engage in CNH’s future direction
- Participants noted that programs such as food justice, housing outreach, and seniors’ programs demonstrate CNH’s community-based approach to advocacy. Programs providing practical support, such as food security initiatives, were particularly valued
- Community members have participated in feedback mechanisms such as surveys, AGMs and committees
Opportunities for improvement
- Participants cited long waitlists for childcare, limited space for programs, and ongoing funding concerns
- Participants requested enhancements in digital accessibility and user-friendly registration systems
- Youth employment and volunteer opportunities were mentioned as areas for development
3. Organizational foundation
What we’re doing well
- CNH is recognized for having dedicated staff and volunteers, with many participants citing positive interactions with staff and feeling supported.
- Programs attract a broad range of participants, and CNH is seen as a vital community hub.
- The recreation and childcare programs are among the most highly engaged services as reflected by survey responders
Opportunities for improvement
- Securing consistent funding and ensuring adequate staffing were highlighted as ongoing challenges
- Some respondents noted difficulties with program awareness, communication, and registration processes, while others requested more evening and weekend programming
- Limited program space and infrastructure were cited as barriers to expansion
Next steps
Our roadmap to addressing community needs and aspirations includes:
- Enhancing communications: Strengthen outreach strategies to improve program visibility and ensure participants are aware of available services
- Expanding accessibility: Develop targeted initiatives to address the needs of underrepresented groups, including neurodivergent individuals and Indigenous communities
- Securing resources: Explore additional funding opportunities to support program expansion and staff capacity
- Celebrating impact: Share participant stories and feedback to demonstrate CNH’s value to the community and encourage greater engagement
For more information on the 2024 participant survey responses, review a summary of findings in PDF format: short version or long version.