The Editor,
Since 1990, before "belonging" was identified as a key ingredient in building a sense of community, the Society for Community Development (SCD) has been connecting, facilitating and advocating on behalf of the citizens of the Tri-Cities. From the humble block party to campaigning for homeless shelters, SCD has facilitated, connected, collaborated and celebrated our community.
Over the years, it has hosted the Spirit of Community Awards and the Taste of the Tri-Cities, and produced three guides that support new and/or vulnerable members of our community: a Street Survival Guide for the Homeless; a Seniors Guide; and a Guide to Free and Low Cost Goods and Services.
SCD chair Cathy Burpee notes that the group has brought forward issues that needed to be addressed and stayed the course until they were addressed - sometimes guided by an executive director, more recently by its working board.
And today, as 2014 draws to a close, SCD's final act of community has been to gift its remaining funds to Douglas College to support Tri-City students enrolled in courses that focus on community development. The college is matching this gift with the result that up to 10 students will receive $500 each over the next few years, continuing the legacy begun 24 years ago around a kitchen table.
Hazel Postma, Associate Vice-president, Advancement and External Relations, Douglas College
