Oliver Community - Edmonton, Alberta

Oliver Is Rich In Resources
To Support health!!!

[Actual summary letter sent to all participants - March, 1995]

Thanks to all involved for taking the time to complete the Oliver community capacity survey, we have been able to collect some valuable information about the skills and abilities of the individuals, businesses and associations who reside or operate in Oliver. This very exciting information means opportunity for all those who live and work in Oliver!

Why Was The Survey Completed?
In an effort to eliminate the deficit, our government has made cuts to health care. This leaves many of us feeling as though we've lost control of our own health. The purpose of this study was to show the Oliver community that it is possible to regain some control of health. The survey results show that the community has many assets that lie within its own boundaries, and we are pleased to make this information available to all the residents and businesses of Oliver.

Who Was Responsible For Doing This Survey?
This survey was completed by the Oliver Community League, in partnership with the Community Development office of the Caritas Health Group. The Caritas Community Development office acts as a community animator, encouraging networking among individuals, businesses, and associations, supporting the creation of new partnerships and opportunities, and building on community strengths.

How Does This Information Mean Opportunity?
The information collected during this survey is an inventory of the community's assets. We wanted to show the community what it has to support health. This information could turn ideas into business ventures, as people come together to share their resources. Everyone has special skills and abilities which can be shared. By identifying these resources, we can see many opportunities arise for new business and job opportunities. Our goal has been to provide the community with this information, but its up to you to take advantage of it.

What Were The Results?
We surveyed 170 households, 97 businesses, and 62 associations in Oliver. The Oliver community businesses, associations and citizens have the capacity to support the health of the community!

Businesses and associations have a great deal to offer. In fact, they had so much to offer and share in support of health and wellbeing that we decided to map it out! The business and associations of Oliver said they could provide support in many areas. They include --- supports for distinct groups; the disabled, persons with AIDs or HIV positive, seniors, aboriginal people; supports in the medical area, quality of life supports and supports for the basic necessities. The asset map shows the connections. Check it out!!

We also found some very exciting results when we surveyed 170 households. Here is a sample of what you said:

• caring for the elderly (76 people)
• caring for the sick (80 people)
• preparing food for numbers over 10 (67 people)
• bulk food purchasing with other people (57 people)
• vehicle maintenance (45 people)
• electrical (36 people)
• plumbing (23 people)
• mechanical (30 people)
• teaching (68 people)
• plus much, much more...

The Next Step Is Up To You! - How Can You Access This Information?
The Oliver Community League offers easy access to this valuable information. All you have to do is contact the president of the League, Hilda Sucre, at (780) 420-0714, or contact Susan Roberts at the CBR office.

IT'S ALL IN OLIVER!

http://www.cbr-aimhigh.com