Orillia seeks members for Poverty Reduction Working Group

Applications open until Oct. 31

For immediate release (Oct. 22, 2024) – The City of Orillia is calling on community members to join its new Poverty Reduction Working Group, aimed at creating actionable solutions to tackle poverty in the community. This hands-on, action-oriented group will play a key role in turning a high-level action plan into a comprehensive, implementable strategy to reduce poverty in Orillia.

“Reducing poverty requires more than just ideas—it takes real, on-the-ground action. We’re looking for individuals who are not only passionate about poverty reduction but are also ready to dedicate their time and energy to making a tangible difference in our community,” said Coun. Janet-Lynne Durnford, the Council representative appointed to the Working Group.

The following positions on the Poverty Reduction Working Group are open for applications until Oct. 31, 2024:

• One community member representing housing
• One community member representing food
• One community member representing transportation
• One community member representing youth
• One community member representing arts and recreation

Appointees will work with Coun. Durnford and a representative from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.

Orillia Council recently received the Poverty Reduction Action Plan, created in partnership with Lakehead University, and approved the formation of the Poverty Reduction Working Group to help develop and implement the actions. The mandate of the Working Group is to review and evaluate the recommendations contained in the plan, including exploring effective evidence-based implementation strategies, analyzing current efforts, addressing access barriers, and ensuring long-term sustainability. A report back to Council in 2025 is required.

Members of the working group will be actively involved in driving forward initiatives, collaborating on key tasks, and making real progress. This is not just a meeting-based commitment – participants will be expected to roll up their sleeves and contribute to meaningful change, with work to be done between meetings. While the exact time commitment may vary depending on the tasks at hand, members should be prepared to dedicate time outside of meetings.

“This working group is critical to implementing the Orillia Poverty Reduction Action Plan, which has the potential to transform lives in our community,” said Gayle Jackson, Chief Administrative Officer. “We’re asking for committed individuals who are prepared to collaborate and work hard to achieve that goal. Your involvement will be critical in shaping meaningful solutions that make a difference.”

Applications are due by Oct. 31, 2024, and are available online at orillia.ca/BoardsCommittees. Applicants are strongly encouraged to include a recent resumé or curriculum vitae. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed.

The Orillia Poverty Reduction Action Plan was developed through extensive research, community consultations, and input from local interest-holders and those with lived experience in poverty. The plan addresses key areas such as housing, food security, transportation, youth support, and access to recreation and arts, and supports Orillia Council’s goal of helping our most vulnerable. To read the plan, or learn more about Council’s priorities, visit orillia.ca/CouncilPriorities.

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Contact Information

Gayle Jackson
Chief Administrative Officer
705-329-7232
gjackson@orillia.ca

Rebecca Zanussi
Communications Coordinator
705-325-2108
705-238-9209 (cell)
rzanussi@orillia.ca