Ethio Can Bridge The Gap, a community based initiative in Toronto hosted a community event in recent weeks . They brought community stakeholders together to map out the goals and visons of the communities . Here is an interview with the EthioCan Bridge The Gap about the event . Special thanks to Tsedey Gessese and Dr. Yohannes Tadeesse for taking the time to reply to our questions .
- Tell us about the recent community visioning and goal setting event organized by EthioCan bridge The Gap?
The recent community visioning and goal-setting event hosted by EthioCan Bridge The Gap was a pivotal gathering, bringing together community members and various organizations in a shared commitment to shaping our collective future. This event, held on December 2nd, served as a community platform for open dialogue, reflection, and proactive planning.
During the event, participants engaged in dynamic discussions, sharing their insights and perspectives on our community’s shared values, current needs, and future aspirations. Through these discussions, we collectively identified key values that unite us, uncovered pressing needs within our community, and set our sights on ambitious future goals.
The collaborative nature of the event highlighted our community’s strength in coming together to address challenges and work towards a shared vision.
Ultimately, this gathering provided a solid foundation for EthioCan Bridge The Gap to directly hear the needs from community members and agencies. The workshop ignited a spark of collaborative work ethics amongst community organizations to serve as a springboard for future efforts dedicated to improving our community’s well-being and advancement.
2. What are the key highlights raised by participants about the vision of the community?
Participants highlighted key community vision points, emphasizing the need for:
- 1. Culturally Relevant Mental Health Support: Accessible mental health services tailored to our community’s cultural needs.
- 2. Affordable Housing: Addressing housing affordability concerns within our community.
- 3. Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Establishing avenues for mentorship and networking to support community growth.
- 4. Employment Opportunities: Creating pathways for increased employment prospects and opportunities within our community.
- 5. Seniors: Providing adequate support and resources to meet the unique needs of our senior community members.
- 6. Newcomers: Supporting newcomers by addressing their specific challenges and ensuring their smooth integration into the community.
3. What is the next step or vision for 2024 that came out of the workshop?
The vision for 2024, emerging from the workshop, underscores the necessity for collaborative action among community organizations, thought leaders, stakeholders, and faith groups to address our community’s multifaceted needs. Recognizing the diverse challenges, the focus for 2024 involves a concerted effort:
- 1. Collaborative Initiatives: Working collectively across various sectors to develop comprehensive solutions to address the diverse community needs.
- 2. Active Community Engagement: Encouraging robust community participation in civic duties such as voting and active involvement in the Canadian census data. These proactive engagements will amplify our community’s voice, ensuring that governmental priorities align with our identified community needs.
4. Any message to the community from Ethio Can Bridge The Gap
Ethio Can Bridge The Gap extends its heartfelt gratitude to the community for the incredible journey shared so far. Throughout the year, the organization has built meaningful relationships and facilitated impactful experiences through a series of online mental health workshops, engaging group discussions, and noteworthy community events. The organization expresses profound appreciation to each community member for their active participation and support, which has been fundamental to the collective accomplishments achieved together.
Ethio Can Bridge The Gap would also like to extend a special note of thanks to the dedicated mental health professionals who generously contribute their time and expertise. Their commitment has been invaluable in supporting our community’s mental health initiatives. Additionally, heartfelt appreciation goes out to all the volunteers whose hard work and dedication make Ethio Can Bridge The Gap a thriving community resource. Their efforts and contributions play a vital role in shaping the organization into a supportive community hub.
As 2024 approaches, Ethio Can Bridge The Gap eagerly anticipates a continuation of enriching community engagements, diverse programs, and opportunities that will further strengthen the connections within the community. The organization looks forward to continuing collaborative efforts, nurturing a supportive and vibrant community environment.
We would like to extend warm wishes to the community for a joyous holiday season, filled with love, togetherness, and cherished moments!
