3 min read
19 October 2023

Fostering a Sense of Belonging, One Grill at a Time: Cedarvale Community BBQ

Eunice Mamic, Community Engagement Manager

On September 27, Cedarvale House (located at 540 Cedarvale Ave.), in collaboration with WoodGreen’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee (AIAC), hosted a community BBQ at Stan Wadlow Clubhouse.

Nearly 50 people, including 540 Cedarvale residents and staff, AIAC members, Stan Wadlow Clubhouse members and neighbours in the community stopped by throughout the evening. They mingled as they enjoyed delicious food courtesy of Sodexo. The event included performances from Edward, a magician who did balloon animals and captivating magic tricks, and Vivianna, a musician who had all the guests dancing together by the end of the night.

“My partner and I came to the BBQ to support our community and share our appreciation for the 540 Cedarvale program,” said Clare Nobbs, a member of the AIAC. “We ended up having enormous fun, meeting, dining and dancing with several residents, and having a delightful evening. Folks from the neighbourhood popped in to ask what the event was for. They ended up staying to dine and dance, too. Even a group of young people from the park joined the fun. It was a beautiful evening and the perfect way to build and celebrate community.”

The successful community event is a testament to the work of the Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee

On September 27, Cedarvale House (located at 540 Cedarvale Ave.), in collaboration with WoodGreen’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee (AIAC), hosted a community BBQ at Stan Wadlow Clubhouse.

The AIAC is dedicated to supporting positive engagement and fostering deeper community connections between the residents at 540 Cedarvale Ave. and the broader neighbourhood. The AIAC has met three times throughout the year to share ideas on how to build a more accessible and inclusive community that extends a sense of belonging to all.

The committee was created when 540 Cedarvale opened last November. This supportive housing building houses vulnerable seniors providing them with 24/7 supports and staffing to improve their quality of life, support their daily needs, and help them remain housed permanently. Residents also have various recreational programs available each week based on their interests, such as karaoke, which help residents bond and build community.

To learn more about the community engagement activities that have been held in support of the Cedarvale program, check out our webpage.

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who was a part of the community BBQ and to all who have supported the Cedarvale House since its opening.

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