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Public feedback on threeSOURCE and Research Update newsletter

Thu, 16 May 2013 17:23:41 +0000

or read our Research Update newsletter? If so, we would like to hear from you. We have created two online surveys that give you the opportunity to tell us why you utilize these resources and how we can improve them. Any comments that you share with us about threeSOURCE and the Research Update are greatly appreciated. Links to each survey are listed below:

Research Update newsletter survey

threeSOURCE survey

If you have any questions or comments about these surveys, or you would like more information about threeSOURCE or our Research Update newsletter, please contact our Resource Coordinator Stephen MacDonald at 780-423-2031 (ext. 354) or by email at library@edmontonsocialplanning.ca.

Facts on Homelessness

Fri, 10 May 2013 22:36:26 +0000

Facts on Homelessness

This fact sheet contains a variety of statistics and related facts on homelessness in Canada, Alberta and Edmonton. It was distributed in conjunction with ESPC's Lunch and Learn on the interplay of homelessness, mental illness and addictions, and their interactions with the health and justice systems.

Increase in Cost of Core Needs in Edmonton (2010 - 2013)

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:42:54 +0000

May 2013
This document provides the most recently available information on changes in costs of essential core items over the past 3 years compared to the overall rate of inflation. Edmonton data is used when available. When data is unavailable for either metro Edmonton or the City of Edmonton, Alberta data is used.

Free research services for Edmonton non-profit organizations

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 19:06:41 +0000

The Edmonton Social Planning Council provides free research assistance to Edmonton-based non-profit organizations. We connect local non-profits with current research they are looking for to help them develop programs and services that improve the lives of socially disadvantaged Edmontonians, contribute to research projects that they are working on, and other related projects.

Social Justice Internship

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 22:49:14 +0000

Please note that we are not accepting applications for our Social Justice Internship at the present time. In September 2013, we will be looking for a new volunteer to take on this position.

The Edmonton Social Planning Council's Social Justice Internship program provides university students with a unique opportunity to address social problems in the Edmonton area. If you are a university student in Alberta and are interested in finding solutions to social issues in our city, please visit http://joinscip.ca/eligibility/ and submit an application for this internship.

To qualify, you must be a post-secondary student living in Alberta. As well, you must be:

a Canadian Citizen,

a Permanent Resident,or

an international student with appropriate authorization as may be required from Citizenship and Immigration Canada to participate in the SCiP Program

The student must also be enrolled and attending at least one class in a part-time or full-time certificate, diploma, undergraduate, graduate, or PhD program at one of 26 approved post-secondary institutions during the academic year that they are working on their SCiP internship.

To learn about the 26 post-secondary institutions whose students qualify for this program, please visit http://eae.alberta.ca/post-secondary/institutions/public.aspx. For more information about qualifications needed to register, visit http://joinscip.ca/eligibility/

2013 Lunch and Learn Series

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 01:01:33 +0000

With John Kolkman, Research Coordinator, Edmonton Social Planning Council

Wednesday, January 23 @ 12pm, Audio-Visual Room (Main Floor), Stanley Milner Library

Our guest speaker John Kolkman will talk about poverty trends in Alberta and ways to address this major social problem in our province.

Our Lunch and Learn Series is a collection of engaging lunch-time talks about social issues and organizations that have an impact on our community.

For more information, please contact our Resource Coordinator Stephen MacDonald at 780.423.2031 ext. 354.

Achieving the Promise: A Forum on Solutions to End Poverty in Alberta

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 21:01:25 +0000

: 20 Nov, 2012, 9:00AM - 3:00PM

Location: The forum will be hosted in both Calgary and Edmonton, and broadcasted live online.

Organized by: Public Interest Alberta, the Alberta College of Social Workers, U of C Faculty of Social Work

Achieving the Promise will bring together people from various organizations to explore real strategies that need to be included in the social policy framework to achieve the Premier�s promise to reduce and eliminate poverty in Alberta.

The forum features:

The public and media launch of the 2012 annual report on child and family poverty in Alberta.

Speakers on economic, community, municipal government and public solutions.

Next Lunch and Learn on Senior Abuse in Edmonton- November 14th

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 18:22:53 +0000

Senior Abuse in Edmonton

Speakers: Anjulie Talwar and Amanda Gravel, SAGE (Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton)

Location: Audio-Visual Room, Stanley Milner Lib rary, Wednesday, November 14th, 2012, 12PM

Our guest speakers will discuss elder abuse and the SAGE Safe House, which serves as a temporary safe haven for seniors who are leaving an abusive environment.

For more information about our Lunch and Learn Series, please visit:

http://www.edmontonsocialplanning.ca/content/view/605/285/

A poster for this event is available here. Please share information about this presentation with your colleagues and others who might be interested in attending this event.

Alberta Social Policy Framework

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 17:38:42 +0000

February 2013

During the summer of 2012, the Edmonton Social Planning Council ran a series of discussions with marginalized groups in our community to learn more about what they would like to see in the Government of Alberta's Social Policy Framework. During each discussion, we recorded the main themes that were discussed. This information was used to create summary reports for each discussion. These reports, which are listed below, contain valuable information about the various challenges that marginalized Edmontonians face in our community. They also demonstrate the need for an effective Social Policy Framework that addresses social inequality in our province.

In February 2013, Alberta Human Services had released the Social Policy Framework.

ESPC Social Justice Intern Report Now Available

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:32:39 +0000

2012

This summer, Daniel Muthui, a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts student at King's University College in Edmonton, served as the Edmonton Social Planning Council's first Social Justice Intern. In this volunteer position, Mr. Muthui wrote a paper discussing employment barriers that recent immigrants face when they immigrate to Canada, programs and initiatives that are being used to address the problem in Alberta, and additional recommendations for government and employers to help new immigrants successfully integrate into the workforce.

Edmonton Social Research Directory: 2012 Edition

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 23:37:59 +0000

September 2012

The Edmonton Social Planning Council began publishing the Social Research Directory in the 1980s. This guide was created to provide information about library collections of use to social researchers. While the ESPC hoped to update the Directory biannually, publication halted in 1989. We believe that this is a valuable resource for the social research community. The Social Research Directory was resurrected in 2010 and has been updated and expanded in 2011.

ESPC Submission to Alberta's Social Policy Framework

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 19:34:09 +0000

The link below is the Edmonton Social Planning Council's submission to the Government of Alberta's public consultation regarding the development of a Social Policy Framework.

The social policy framework will guide the future of Alberta�s social policies and programs � including childcare, employment, housing, and poverty.

Click here to read the Edmonton Social Planning Council's statement.

Non-Market Housing in High Stressed Communities

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 18:41:11 +0000

Presentation to City Council Executive Committee, Agenda Item 6.14

June 27, 2012

By John Kolkman
Research Coordinator, Edmonton Social Planning Council

Thank you for the opportunity to make this presentation on behalf of the Edmonton Social Planning Council. The Council is a non-profit social research organization that focuses on low income issues in our community.

Over the past few decades, a disproportionately large percentage of subsidized housing units � especially for the hard to house - have been located in relatively few neighbourhoods in Edmonton�s north central area. These neighbourhoods also have amongst the highest rates of poverty in the City. It is therefore appropriate for actions to be taken to prevent poverty from being entrenched more deeply in these neighbourhoods.

May 2012 Lunch and Learn

Wed, 09 May 2012 15:56:02 +0000

Time: 12:00 pm to1:00 pm
Location: Audio Visual Room (Main Floor) - Stanley A. Milner Library

Speaker: Jan Fox, Executive Director, REACH Edmonton
Topic: Public Safety in Edmonton
Description: Jan Fox will talk about the purpose of REACH Edmonton and the work it is doing to improve public safety in Edmonton.

Edmonton�s 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness Delivers Results

Thu, 03 May 2012 18:11:02 +0000

Target exceeded with nearly 1800 Edmontonians housed

Mayor Stephen Mandel joined Anne Smith, Chair of the Edmonton Homeless Commission to release the Year 3 update on A Place to Call Home: Edmonton�s 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness. The results are encouraging. Nearly 1800 Edmontonians are now housed in 1,237 units, 150% of the Plan's target for the first 3 years. Other results include:

85% of individuals have held onto their housing

319 new units are completed or under construction

Three quarters of housing units secured were distributed across the city in the private rental market, thanks to partnerships with landlords

11 Housing First teams - including the first dedicated Aboriginal team - helped people transition into a new life off the streets

Outreach services were expanded for homeless people with intensive needs

The Welcome Home program was launched, matching volunteer companions from faith communities with newly-housed people to offer social interaction

The Plan is inspired by the Housing First principle: providing people with housing and supports prepares them to successfully build a new life for themselves.

Working together has been the key to the Plan�s success so far. �Collaborating in the goal of ending homelessness sounds easy,� says Anne Smith, Chair of the Edmonton Homeless Commission. �But the reality is more complicated. Homeward Trust, the frontline agencies, the City of Edmonton, and the Government of Alberta have all worked in collaboration to house and support 1789 Edmontonians - creating a new model for success.

The Update also identifies challenges on the horizon for Year 4. Funding is now a significant issue. Continuing to house those who are homeless and keep them housed will require further investment in the Housing First program, capital projects, and rent subsidies. An additional challenge is how to house those with intensive needs effectively in long-term supported housing with health services attached.

Housing advocates agree that ending homelessness must become a community-wide effort. Jack Schultz knows the effect of a supportive community. �I was homeless for 6 years before my housing. Thanks to Housing First, I now have a home with good supports. I belong to a community, and I have the opportunity to work a little bit when I am able to.�
For more information:
Jay Freeman - Executive Director, Edmonton Homeless Commission
Telephone: 780-443-8361
Email: jay.freeman@edmonton.ca

Responses to the Alberta Social Policy Framework

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:51:07 +0000

The Government of Alberta is in the process of developing a social policy framework. Broadly speaking, this framework is about inclusion and supporting a high quality of life for all Albertans. The Ministry of Human Services sought to engage stakeholders in the process of developing the social framework. Below is the Edmonton Social Planning Council's response.

January Lunch and Learn

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:26:04 +0000

Topic: Literacy - Implications For Us All

Location: Stanley Milner Library, Audio Visual Room (7 Sir Winston Churchill Square)

Speaker: Jonna Grad and Wendy Peverett, Centre for Family Literacy

Description: Our speakers will discuss the impact that lower literacy rates have on all aspects of a person's life. They will also talk about programs offered by the Centre to help Albertans improve their literacy skill.

January 27th is Family Literacy Day!

November Lunch and Learn

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:52:33 +0000

Speaker: Heidi Veluw, Project Manager, Live Local

Description: Heidi Veluw will talk about the importance of supporting locally-owned businesses and the impact this has on our community.

Live Local supports independent, Edmonton-owned businesses by encouraging all Edmontonians to buy locally and experience what our region has to offer.

November is Shop Local First Month!

Date and Time: Wednesday, November 9, 2011 12 to 1PM

Location: Stanley Milner Library (7 Sir Winston Churchill Square)

Bring your lunch. Feed your mind.

For more information, contact Stephen MacDonald, ESPC Resource Coordinator at 780.423.2031 x 354 or by email.

October Lunch and Learn

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 18:33:15 +0000

Speaker: Kate Quinn, Executive Director, Centre To End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE)

Description: Kathleen Quinn will discuss the poverty gap in Edmonton, with an emphasis on how it is affecting sexually exploited women in our community.

The Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation is an organization in Edmonton that is dedicated to helping individuals, families and communities that are being affected by sexual exploitation.

Date and Time: October 26, 2011 12 to 1PM

Location: Stanley Milner Library (7 Sir Winston Churchill Square)

Alberta Quality of Life Commission Event

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:26:21 +0000

Our current home care system

Changes for the future

The experience of a caregiver who has used the home care system

Tuesday, October 4, 2011
7:00 to 9:00 PM
8421 -101 Avenue, Edmonton
Pastoral and Administrative Offices
Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton

September Lunch and Learn

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:07:19 +0000

Speaker: Fay Orr, Alberta Mental Health Patient Advocate

Fay Orr, Alberta's Mental Health Patient Advocate, will discuss mental health patient advocacy in the provincial healthcare system. She will talk about the Alberta Mental Health Patient Advocate Office and the work they do to support mental health patients in Alberta.

Place: Stanley A Milner Library (7 Sir Winston Churchill Square)

Date: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Time: 12 to 1 PM

Admission: Free

Using Social Media to Put a Face on Homelessness

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 22:34:31 +0000

On July 19, 2011, Mark Horvath - creator of http://invisiblepeople.tv - spoke at Homeward Trust Edmonton about the role social media can play in amplifying and empowering the voices of those without homes. Below is a video of Jim from the Calgary Drop-In Centre.

Recession Causes Huge Poverty Spike in Alberta and Edmonton

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 17:36:11 +0000

Almost one in five Edmonton children were living in poverty in 2009

Media Release
June 15, 2011

Back to Main News Releases Page

Nominate a Local Social Justice Advocate TODAY!

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 07:00:00 +0000

Once again, the ESPC is looking to honour forward-looking and courageous individuals and groups who have not turned away from controversy in an effort to seek social justice for their community.

We need your help to identify those people who you feel deserve recognition for their tireless dedication to their communities.

To nominate someone for an Award of Merit for Advocacy of Social Justice:

Download & review the nomination guidelines

To nominate an individual, fill out the application form for individuals.
To nominate a group, fill out the application form for groups.

Return your completed application form to the ESPC office (mail, fax or email ).

Nominations will be accepted until Thursday, March 31, 2011.

Panel Discussion

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 16:35:14 +0000

The Alberta Quality of Life Commission presents

Co-Sponsored by the Edmonton Social Planning Council and Public Interest Alberta

threeSOURCE: find the information you need

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:59:58 +0000

The Edmonton Social Planning Council is excited to announce the launch of threeSOURCE.

Next ESPC book club: September 13

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:56:49 +0000

Looking for some leisure reading to add to your weekend plans? Head to your local library or bookstore and pick up a copy of the next ESPC book club read! We�ll be talking about Rabindranath Maharaj�s The Amazing Absorbing Boy on September 13.

Here�s a quick plot introduction from the publisher's website:

Both familiar and strange, this story of a large Canadian city seen through the wide eyes of a naive and inexperienced young immigrant � wise in the culture of comic books � is both hilarious and heartbreaking.

Samuel is just 17 when his mother dies and he is called to live with the father he has only heard of. He leaves his village in Trinidad and flies to Toronto, where he finds his father living in a place called Regent Park. Samuel is lonely in this �big mall of a country,� but he has his memories of superheroes � his mentors � to guide him, including the memory of an unusual friend who was two superheroes in one, as he sets out to explore what Toronto has to offer.

Look for us at 7pm on Monday, September 13 at the Strathcona Library branch of the Edmonton Public Library, just north of Whyte Avenue by the Farmer�s Market. After entering the main doors but before entering the library itself, head up the stairs and into the room on the left.

Now Available! Social Research Directory 2010 Edition

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:19:00 +0000

The Directory is a listing of libraries and resource centres in Edmonton that collect information about the individuals and groups that make up society, their welfare, and their interactions, and that provide public access to their collection, even if material does not circulate or hours and service are limited.

This is a great tool for anyone doing research in the community. Check out the Directory to see what resource collections might be available to help your work!

Visit our Publications page to download your free copy!

Next ESPC Book Club: Douglas Coupland on August 9!

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:23:43 +0000

You can now find the ESPC book club at the Old Strathcona branch of the Edmonton Public Library (map here) on the second Monday evening of each month. Join us at 7pm on Monday, August 9 to talk about Girlfriend in a Coma by Douglas Coupland.

Take a look at the EPL website for more details!

This is a great summer read. Girlfriend in a Coma always leaves me wondering, if I had the ability, how far would I go to make the world a better place to live in?

From the summary on NoveList: "When Karen Ann MacNeil awakens after being in a coma for eighteen years, the world suddenly encounters disturbing, terrifying, and radical changes altering reality, and Karen and her friends must try to stop the madness and restore order to the world."

ESPC Book Club: July 12

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 15:43:54 +0000

For those of you who can't make it to our regular lunchtime meetings, you can now find us at the Strathcona Library branch of the Edmonton Public Library in Old Strathcona, on the second Monday evening of each month. Join us at 7pm on July 12 to talk about The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway.

Take a look at the EPL website for more details!

From the Publishers Weekly review posted at Amazon:

Canadian Galloway delivers a tense and haunting novel following four people trying to survive war-torn Sarajevo. After a mortar attack kills 22 people waiting in line to buy bread, an unnamed cellist vows to play at the point of impact for 22 days. Meanwhile, Arrow, a young woman sniper, picks off soldiers; Kenan makes a dangerous trek to get water for his family; and Dragan, who sent his wife and son out of the city at the start of the war, works at a bakery and trades bread in exchange for shelter. Arrow's assigned to protect the cellist, but when she's eventually ordered to commit a different kind of killing, she must decide who she is and why she kills. Dragan believes he can protect himself through isolation, but that changes when he runs into a friend of his wife's attempting to cross a street targeted by snipers. Kenan is repeatedly challenged by his fear and a cantankerous neighbor. All the while, the cellist continues to play. With wonderfully drawn characters and a stripped-down narrative, Galloway brings to life a distant conflict.

ESPC Book Club: June 14

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:47:01 +0000

Did you know that you can find the ESPC Book Club at the public library now?

For those of you who haven't been able to make it to our regular lunchtime meetings, you can now find us at the Strathcona Library branch of the Edmonton Public Library in Old Strathcona on the second Monday evening of each month. Join us at 7pm on June 14 for a great book discussion about Unless by Carol Shields.

The ESPC Book Club is a place for people who love books and are interested in social justice. We read Canadian fiction and discuss how it relates to the issues we see in our own community.

Visit our Book Club page for more details!

Take a look at the EPL Strathcona Branch website for more event information.

June 9 Lunch and Learn

Wed, 26 May 2010 21:11:13 +0000

Have you been to any of our Lunch and Learn events yet? We've had a great time learning about social issues and organizations that impact our community.

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Join us on June 9, 2010 at 12pm as we explore this issue with Pat Power, Social Worker and member of the Edmonton Elder Abuse Intervention Team.

Location: Stanley Milner Library, main floor (7 Churchill Square)

Bring your lunch!

For information on past events, as well as some great photos and videos of our speakers, check out our Lunch and Learn page.

May 25 Book Club

Tue, 18 May 2010 16:32:22 +0000

2009 Annual Report

Thu, 13 May 2010 20:47:52 +0000

The report provides a great summary of the work done by the ESPC in 2009, and gives some insight into our direction for the coming year.

Our reports from 2005 - present are available on our Annual Reports page.

Anniversary Gala & Silent Auction: Tickets Now Available!

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 22:40:14 +0000

The evening will include an address by Michael Phair (U of A Director of Community Relations & former ESPC Board President) and greetings from Rob Rainer on behalf of Canada without Poverty.

Maria Dunn (Edmonton singer-song writer) will also be joining us to round off the evening with a stellar musical performance.

Tickets are NOW AVAILABLE!

$70 per person
$500 per table of 8

Buy your online tickets today!

Visit our gala page for more information.

We are also accepting donations for our Silent Auction

Contact Stephanie by email or at 780-423-2031 x349 for details.

New Strategic Plan

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 22:34:55 +0000

The plan is based on the feedback received through and extensive consultation process with the ESPC Board and staff and a variety of community stakeholders. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the process!

Click to view the 2010-2013 Strategic Plan

Spring Newsletter: Work & Wages

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 22:08:11 +0000

Spring has Sprung! And so has the Spring 2010 Newsletter!

Training & Education Supports;

Living Wage;

Alberta Minimum Wage Freeze;

Aboriginal Workforce Inclusion;

Women Building Futures;

Immigrant Employment Issues;

ESPC History - Past Work on Work Issues;

ESPC History - Community Development: 1960s & 70s;

and more!!

Download the PDF today!

Click on the following links to listen:

ESPC MEMBERS: We want your feedback!!

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 20:37:35 +0000

We are conducting our annual Member Survey!

Please take a few moments to fill out the survey.

This annual survey is a way for us to get your feedback on how well we are meeting our goals and your needs. What are we doing well? More importantly, what can we do differently?

Every member who completes a survey will be entered to win 1 of 3 Chapter's gift certificates!

Not an ESPC Member?
Become one today & support our continuing legacy of commitment to community!

ESPC Annual General Meeting

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 20:20:18 +0000

Please join us for our 70th Annual General Meeting to celebrate our accomplishments, and to hear about the upcoming activities of the Council.

Your membership must be current in order to vote. Memberships may be purchased or renewed at the door

Wednesday, May 12th @ 5:00pm

10804�119 Street
Edmonton, AB

Keynote Address

Peter Faid, former ESPC Executive Director, 1980-1990

.
Light refreshments will be served.

Kindly RSVP by April 30th, 2009

Walk-in attendance is also welcome.

RSVP to Stephanie: 780-423-2031
or stephanieh@edmontonsocialplanning.ca

April 28: Lunch & Learn, Housing & Homelessness

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 21:44:45 +0000

April 28, 2010: Housing and Homelessness in Edmonton

with Susan McGee, Executive Director and Murray Soroka, Director, Housing First, Homeward Trust Edmonton.

April 28, 2010 @ 12pm Stanley Milner Library

Join us for our series of engaging lunch-time talks about social issues and organizations that have an impact on our community. Bring your lunch!

Find out more about our Lunch and Learn series. Check out the event on the Edmonton Public Library website!

Join the ESPC Board

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 15:41:28 +0000

The ESPC is seeking new board members!

We are currently seeking to fill a number of vacancies and would welcome applications for becoming a member of the board.

Learn more about the ESPC board.

2010 Federal Budget Response

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:53:41 +0000

Read our 2010 Federal Budget Fact Sheet to learn about how the budget will impact Canadians living on low or modest incomes.

The analysis includes budget items such as:

Child Tax Benefits;

the Working Income Tax Benefit (WITB);

Employment Insurance (EI);

Skills Training;

and more...

Response to Alberta Budget 2010

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 20:00:51 +0000

The ESPC has responded to the 2010 Alberta budget, which was brought down on Tuesday, February 9th.

Read about how the budget will impact Albertans living on low or modest incomes in our:

February 10th News Release
Focused on the impact of the budget on low income renters and the 10-year plan to end homelessness.

2010 Alberta Budget Fact Sheet
Overview of budget items that have an impact on low and modest income earners, such as: Alberta Works, AISH, affordable housing, child care, etc.

You can also read about our position in the following news articles:

Edmonton SUN; Feb 10, 2010

Edmonton Journal; Feb 11, 2010

Canadian Social Housing Observer; Feb 11, 2010

Now Available! ESPC's 'The Way We Live' report

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:51:30 +0000

The Quality of Life Needs & Priorities of Edmontonians Facing Social & Economic Barriers

The report is now available to the public on the City of Edmonton website.

View the full report today!

Winter Newsletter: Immigrants

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:28:45 +0000

The Winter 2010 Newsletter is Now Available!!

Introducing New Youth Intern

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:03:31 +0000

The Edmonton Social Planning Council would like to welcome its new youth intern, Tiffany Seymour. Tiffany is a student in anthropology and sociology at the University of Alberta, and she will be studying anti-bullying programs in Edmonton. Specifically, she plans to conduct a cross-national analysis of anti-bullying programs compared to Alberta.

If you are involved in anti-bullying programs in Edmonton or have any suggestions for this project, please get in touch with us.

Stay tuned for updates!

The ESPC youth internship program gives Edmonton youth ages 15-25 an opportunity to work on projects that contribute to a more socially just, healthy, and inclusive community.

February Lunch and Learn

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:29:34 +0000

February 12, 2010: Immigrant Experiences in Edmonton

a discussion of immigrant experiences in Edmonton
with John Bol, Sudanese Refugee and ESPC intern,
and Jim Gurnett, former Executive Director of the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers

February 10, 2010 @ 12pm Stanley Milner Library

Join us for the first in our series of engaging lunch-time talks about social issues and organizations that have an impact on our community. Bring your lunch!

Find out more about our Lunch and Learn series. Check out the event on the Edmonton Public Library website!

January Book Club

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:01:06 +0000
The ESPC Book Club is a relaxed environment for discussing how Canadian literature relates to social issues in our community. Meetings are held every second month at the ESPC Library, 9912-106 St. For more information, contact Jennifer at 780.423.2031 x354.

Everyone is welcome to join us for this event!

Report: A Poverty-Free Alberta

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:56:32 +0000

The report is a follow up the We Can Do Better report released in Fall 2008.

Authored by Jim Gurnett (former ED of the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers), We Must do Better overviews:

the results of 5 poverty forums held across the province in 2009;

recent statistics on poverty and unemployment in Alberta; and,

potential public policy and program options that would help to reduce or eliminate poverty.

Download the report today!

Fall Newsletter: Neighbourhoods

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:04:35 +0000

The Fall edition of the fACTivist is now available!

YouthGAP Report Available Now!

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:51:43 +0000

Filling the GAP: Taking a Closer Look at Edmonton Youth Gangs

NOW AVAILABLE: Tracking the TRENDS 2009

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:49:05 +0000

The ESPC's Tracking the TRENDS 2009: Neighbourhood Well-Being in Edmonton is now available!

Dinner with Stephen Lewis

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 20:41:47 +0000

You are invited to an evening with Stephen Lewis, an engaging speaker and well-known Canadian politician, broadcaster and diplomat.

This event, co-hosted by the ESPC, the Edmonton Community Foundation and E4C, is part the Edmonton Speakers Series on the Future of Community.

Buy your tickets today from TIX on the Square.

Community Spirit Grant

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:26:55 +0000

The ESPC would like to thank Alberta's ministry of Culture & Community Spirit for the recent grant of $3,749 we received through the Community Spirit Program.

LISTEN to our Newsletter

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:04:37 +0000

Don't have time to read the latest edition of the fACTivist?

Now you can listen to the Summer 2009 (Seniors Issues) newsletter while you work!

Click on the following links to listen:
Our Winter (Disability Issues) and Spring (Aboriginal Issues) newsletters are also available in audio format! Visit our Newsletter page to have a listen!

Summer Newsletter: Seniors

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:40:22 +0000

The Summer 2009 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

This edition explores Seniors issues, and Seniors resources and advocacy groups in Edmonton. The topics include:

Retirement Security;

Alberta Seniors Drug Plan;

Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton;

Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council;

Seniors Cohousing;

Westend Seniors Activity Centre;

Canadian Social Forum;

and more!

View the full PDF version now!

Introducing Youth G.A.P.

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 17:09:51 +0000

ESPC Internship: The Youth GAP (Gang Alternatives Project)

We are pleased to welcome Jacalyn Ambler and Kavina Mistry to the Edmonton Social Planning Council as our interns!

From July to September, Jacalyn and Kavina are researching the issue of youth gang membership in Edmonton. They will be reviewing the literature, examining statistics, and speaking with agencies and community groups in Edmonton to learn about the particularities of youth gang involvement in our community. Stay tuned for their report in late September!

If you have insight into this issue that you would like to share, send an email or call 780.690.6416.

If you want to find out more about ESPC Youth Internships, contact us!

Update: the YouthGAP report is now available - download it here!

NEW Report: Nonprofits and Policy Advocacy

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 17:00:01 +0000

This document is a review of successful non-profit policy advocacy practices. Using case studies and examples from Alberta, Canada, and internationally, this guide outlines how and why non-profits should participate in policy advocacy, and breaks down some of the key features of successful policy advocacy efforts. These include:

developing a policy advocacy strategy,

connecting advocacy with social movements,

taking part in coalitions and partnerships,

understanding the policy-making process,

using thoughtful messaging,

and providing valuable information.

Appendices include further resouces on advocacy and examples of coalitions currently working on social issue advocacy in Alberta and Canada.

Download the PDF document, or contact us to order a hard copy.

Spring Newsletter: Aboriginal Edmonton

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:28:00 +0000

The Spring 2009 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

The Wicihitowin Circle of Shared Responsibility;

The 2009 Esquao Awards;

Statistics on Aboriginal Edmonton;

Urban Aboriginal Community Building;

Aboriginal Resources in the Edmonton Area;

First Nations in the Edmonton Region;

and more!

View the full PDF version now!

2009 Alberta Budget Analysis

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:46:53 +0000

The ESPC's 2009 Provincial Budget fact sheet is now available!

It offers a mix of information and analysis focusing on areas of greatest impact and interest to those living on low or modest incomes. Topics include:

Homeless Prevention Initiative & Affordable Rental Housing;

Income Supports (AISH & Alberta Works);

Family Employment Tax Credit

Persons with Developmental Disabilities;

Seniors;

Child Care & Child Intervention Services; and,

Gender Reassignment Surgery.
Read the new fact sheet NOW!

Annal General Meeting: May

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:53:38 +0000

The ESPC's Annual General Meeting is coming up!

NEW Podcast Episode!

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:15:24 +0000

The ESPC has produced the third episode of its podcast, Ear on Social Issues.

In this episode, we discuss the upcoming Alberta provincial budget. Cheryl writes a letter to Stelmach-Claus; we present our social policy wish list for the 2009 provincial budget; and Jaylene dishes on her recent interview with Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel.

Doing it Right!

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:09:09 +0000

The ESPC is pleased to release this refreshed version of Doing it Right! A Needs Assessment Workbook.

2009 Federal Budget Analysis

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 20:59:01 +0000

The ESPC's 2009 Federal Budget fact sheet is now available!

It offers a mix of information and analysis focusing on areas of greatest impact and interest to those living on low or modest incomes. Topics covered in the fact sheet include:

the National Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS) & the Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB);

the Working Income Tax Benefit (WITB);

Employment Insurance (EI);

Income tax reductions;

Aboriginal communities and housing; and;

Affordable housing.
Read the new fact sheet NOW!

Winter Newsletter: Disability

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 21:41:47 +0000

The Winter 2009 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

Perspectives on the Meaning of Disability;

Poverty & Economics of Disability;

The Changing Language of Disability;

Work, Wages & Disability;

Disability & Barriers to Employment;

and more!

View the full PDF version now!

This edition of the fACTivist is available in audio format, thanks to VoicePrint Canada.
Click on the following links to listen (you will be taken to an external website):

Community Consultations on Research Needs

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 19:14:28 +0000

We hosted a round of consultations with our community partners to help us in setting research priorities for the future. Thank you to everyone who participated. The final report is now available:

Community Consultations on Research Needs - Final Report

Child & Family Poverty Report

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:03:12 +0000

The ESPC has just released its new report, We Can Do Better: Toward an Alberta Poverty Reduction Strategy for Children and Families, which reveals that 77,595 Alberta children live in poverty.

Fall Newsletter: City Planning

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:20:02 +0000

The Fall 2008 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

We have a NEW Podcast!

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:46:56 +0000

Oct 28, 2008

The ESPC has just released it's new podcast, called Ear on Social Issues!

ESPC in the Media: Renters' Survey Report

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:08:59 +0000

The ESPC's Not Just a Roof Over our Heads report has drawn a fair bit of media attention.

Renters Survey Report Released!

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:56:13 +0000

September 24, 2008

The Edmonton Social Planning Council released the results of its 2008 Edmonton Renters' Survey.

ESPC @ Habitat for Humanity

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:19:18 +0000

ESPC staff volunteered at a Habitat for Humanity site in Edmonton on Friday, September 12th.

Farewell & Welcome Back

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 17:13:16 +0000

It is time for the ESPC to say farewell to two staff members who joined our team for the summer:

David Fischer, our Summer Temporary Employment Program (STEP) research assistant who assisted us on many projects over the last three months. David will be continuing his Bachelor degree program in Sociology and Psychology at MacEwan College in Spetember; and,

Linda McLean, our temporary administrative assistant, who kept the office running for the past two months in Stephanie Haar's absence.

We are sad to see David & Linda go, and wish them both all the best in their future work.

Yet as we say goodbye to part of our little team, we are excited to welcome back another - Stephanie Haar will be returning from her leave on September 2nd!!

ESPC @ Inner City BBQ

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:53:22 +0000

On Friday, July 18th, ESPC staff and board members joined many other inner city organizations and residents to volunteer at the Urban Core Support Network's 24th annual Inner City BBQ.

We had a great time serving up the delicious hamburgers, hot dogs and buns to delighted community members - young and old!

Focus Group summary - Community Consultations

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 19:45:30 +0000

Our community consultations on social issues and research needs in Edmonton are in full swing. The consultations are intended to solicit input into the ESPC research agenda. We've invited a number of our community partners to discuss with us some of the current and forthcoming social issues in Edmonton, and research solutions that can help to address these issues. A focus group held on July 21 was the first of two occurring this summer, the results of which will complement feedback solicited through surveys and one-on-one conversations.

Five participants contributed towards a lively discussion and successful first focus group. The group discussed social issues and trends affecting Edmonton today and in the future, and research projects that could lead to positive changes. Some of the main themes of the discussion were:

Social determinants of health

Survival and quality of life

Housing

The need for people-centred policy

The effects of compounding barriers

The value our society places on social agencies and their clients

Resources

The complete summary of the first focus group is available for download in PDF format:

ESPC Community Consultations - July 21 Focus Group Summary

The second focus group will be held on August 12, from 1-4 pm. These consultations are ongoing, so don't worry - if you haven't heard from us yet, you just might in the near future! Questions or comments? Contact us.

Read more about the Community Consultations.

Summer Newsletter: Youth

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The Summer 2008 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

This edition explores youth issues:

Teen Parents,

Youth Crime,

Youth-focused projects, like iHuman and the City of Edmonton Youth Council

and much more.

Click here to download the full PDF version of the newsletter.

Government Contacts Updated

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:48:28 +0000

Our lists of federal, provincial and municipal government contacts for Edmonton and region have been uploaded to our site!

Visit our Advocacy Resources page to find the information you need to communicate with your elected officials.

Renters Survey Update

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:26:49 +0000

We received an overwhelming response to our Edmonton Renters Survey�over 700 surveys were submitted online and by mail/fax between April 16 to May 31, 2008 (a few continued to trickle in over the past month and a half). Not only did we get answers to our simple multiple choice questions, we got an incredible amount of comments�around 150 pages worth!

If nothing else, this huge response tells us that the rental housing situation in Edmonton is a major concern that is in serious need of attention.

We are currently in the process of analysing all of the data we�ve gathered, and hope to have our report ready for release by the end of August.

Enhanced Charitable Tax Credit

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:32:12 +0000

Did you know that 82 percent of all financial donations come from just 25 percent of the donors? Besides encouraging current donors to continue donating, the Alberta government wants to encourage new donors to step forward and assist their favorite charities as well!

Effective January 1, 2007, the Alberta government increased the provincial charitable tax credit on eligible annual donation above $200.00.

Including the federal tax credit, Albertans now receive a 50-cent tax credit for every dollar donated over the $200 threshold.

The Edmonton Social Planning Council is a registered charity which issues tax receipts for donations over $10.00.

We encourage you to donate to your favorite non-profit organizations if you are in a financial position to do so. Donations are a great way to assist organizations with their efforts, while also allowing you to take advantage of the incentives established by the Alberta government.

Visit our Donations page to learn more about the options for supporting the ESPC.

Community Consultations

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 20:52:29 +0000

What should we be researching?

2008 Members Survey Results

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 17:39:39 +0000

The results of our 2008 Members Survey are now available! (Click here to view the PDF report.)

Thank you to all members who took the time to fill out the survey. Your feedback is invaluable, and we will be looking to it to inform our actions over the coming year.

Spring Newsletter: Child Poverty

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 21:32:48 +0000

The Spring 2008 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

This edition focuses on the issue of child poverty, with articles on:

The Canada Child Tax Benefit,

The concept of "child poverty,"

Chilld care in Alberta

and more...

Click here to download the full PDF version of the newsletter.

Get notices when we add new stuff to our site!

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:02:40 +0000

The ESPC now has an RSS feed!

Subscribe to our feed to get notices whenever we add something new to our site (news, blog posts, community resources, etc.)

Never subscribed to RSS?
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To get our RSS feed to your email:

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Paste the following URL into the box under "Enter the URL you'd like to subscribe to:"
http://www.edmontonsocialplanning.ca/index2.php?option=ds-syndicate&version=1&feed_id=1

Click "Submit" and wait for the next page to load. Be patient, it may take a few moments.

Enter your email address and your preferences for receiving the feed.

Click "Subscribe"

You will be sent an email to confirm your email address. Once you click the confirmation link in the email, the process is complete & you will begin receiving email updates.

Welcome to Our New Website!

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 17:28:23 +0000

We are very proud to release our brand new website!

All of the great content from our former website is still there - links, publications, resource library catalogue, etc. - plus many new, interactive features including:

Community Resources: A section devoted to information from other community agencies, including news and other relevant postings (Community Bulletin Board), as well as an Event Calendar.
Please email us if you want your group's information posted in this section.

Issue Brief Blog: The ESPC's new on-line "journal." We will be posting commentaries on topical issues here on a regular basis. If you have ideas to add, you can leave a comment!

Social Exchange Forum: The ESPC new on-line discussion area. This is a space for all of us to discuss and debate the social issues that are impacting us. Respond to other people's posts, or add your own topic!
We hope you enjoy our new site!

We've Moved!

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:23:53 +0000

ESPC has moved to its new location!

the fACTivist Federal & Provincial Edition

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The Winter 2008 issue of the fACTivsit newsletter is now available!

Affordable housing policy needs leadership

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

An ESPC article on affordable housing policy was recently published in the Edmonton Journal.

Web Redesign Survey

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Thank you to everyone who has responded to our survey - as of January 9, we've received 68 responses! Visit our Projects page to view the survey results.

Congratulations to Craig Stumpf-Allen of the Edmonton Community Foundation, the winner of our prize draw!

ESPC on Wikipedia

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 01:34:21 +0000
Click here to check out the new Wikipedia article on the Council!

Solutions for Low Income Workers

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:00:00 +0000

"Standing Still in a Booming Economy" is now available on our Publications page.

The report analyzes economic, social and employment data to answer the question - Why are so many workers having difficulties making ends meet in this booming economy?

Members Speak

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 23:00:00 +0000
The results of our Members Survey are now available on our Membership page.

Thank you to all of our members who took the time to give us feedback on our work!

Exciting Project Updates!

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 23:00:00 +0000
Check out our Projects page to learn more about some exciting new and recent projects at the Council, including:

co-hosting a conference

updating our website, and

a report on the crisis in child and family services

ESPC Launches Online Resource Room

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 23:00:00 +0000
Click here to search our library of books, articles and journals on a variety of social issues.

What's New Feed ()

Public feedback on threeSOURCE and Research Update newsletter

Facts on Homelessness

Increase in Cost of Core Needs in Edmonton (2010 - 2013)

Free research services for Edmonton non-profit organizations

Social Justice Internship

2013 Lunch and Learn Series

Achieving the Promise: A Forum on Solutions to End Poverty in Alberta

Next Lunch and Learn on Senior Abuse in Edmonton- November 14th

Alberta Social Policy Framework

ESPC Social Justice Intern Report Now Available

Edmonton Social Research Directory: 2012 Edition

ESPC Submission to Alberta's Social Policy Framework

Non-Market Housing in High Stressed Communities

Presentation to City Council Executive Committee, Agenda Item 6.14

May 2012 Lunch and Learn

Edmonton�s 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness Delivers Results

Target exceeded with nearly 1800 Edmontonians housed

Responses to the Alberta Social Policy Framework

January Lunch and Learn

November Lunch and Learn

October Lunch and Learn

Alberta Quality of Life Commission Event

September Lunch and Learn

Using Social Media to Put a Face on Homelessness

Recession Causes Huge Poverty Spike in Alberta and Edmonton

Almost one in five Edmonton children were living in poverty in 2009

Nominate a Local Social Justice Advocate TODAY!

Panel Discussion

threeSOURCE: find the information you need

Next ESPC book club: September 13

Now Available! Social Research Directory 2010 Edition

Next ESPC Book Club: Douglas Coupland on August 9!

ESPC Book Club: July 12

ESPC Book Club: June 14

June 9 Lunch and Learn

May 25 Book Club

2009 Annual Report

The report provides a great summary of the work done by the ESPC in 2009, and gives some insight into our direction for the coming year. Our reports from 2005 - present are available on our Annual Reports page.

Anniversary Gala & Silent Auction: Tickets Now Available!

Tickets are NOW AVAILABLE!

$70 per person $500 per table of 8

New Strategic Plan

Spring Newsletter: Work & Wages

Spring has Sprung! And so has the Spring 2010 Newsletter!

ESPC MEMBERS: We want your feedback!!

We are conducting our annual Member Survey!

Every member who completes a survey will be entered to win 1 of 3 Chapter's gift certificates!

Not an ESPC Member? Become one today & support our continuing legacy of commitment to community!

ESPC Annual General Meeting

Wednesday, May 12th @ 5:00pm

Keynote Address

April 28: Lunch & Learn, Housing & Homelessness

Join the ESPC Board

The ESPC is seeking new board members!

2010 Federal Budget Response

Response to Alberta Budget 2010

Now Available! ESPC's 'The Way We Live' report

The Quality of Life Needs & Priorities of Edmontonians Facing Social & Economic Barriers

Winter Newsletter: Immigrants

The Winter 2010 Newsletter is Now Available!!

Introducing New Youth Intern

February Lunch and Learn

January Book Club

Report: A Poverty-Free Alberta

Fall Newsletter: Neighbourhoods

The Fall edition of the fACTivist is now available!

YouthGAP Report Available Now!

Filling the GAP: Taking a Closer Look at Edmonton Youth Gangs

NOW AVAILABLE: Tracking the TRENDS 2009

Dinner with Stephen Lewis

Community Spirit Grant

LISTEN to our Newsletter

Don't have time to read the latest edition of the fACTivist?

Summer Newsletter: Seniors

The Summer 2009 edition of the fACTivist is now available!

Introducing Youth G.A.P.

ESPC Internship: The Youth GAP (Gang Alternatives Project)

NEW Report: Nonprofits and Policy Advocacy

Spring Newsletter: Aboriginal Edmonton

The report provides a great summary of the work done by the ESPC in 2009, and gives some insight into our direction for the coming year.

Our reports from 2005 - present are available on our Annual Reports page.

$70 per person
$500 per table of 8

Not an ESPC Member?
Become one today & support our continuing legacy of commitment to community!