The Social Planning Council of Ottawa (SPCO) offers and supports programs that ensure an adequate standard of living for individuals and families facing exclusion such as ethno-cultural seniors, racialized youth, and people living with mental health challenges.
Programs
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This project reduces social isolation for immigrant and ethno-cultural minority seniors. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada, New Horizons for Seniors, it concluded it’s three and a half year funding with many successes based on collaboration and partnerships with 26 ethno-cultural groups. Read more
Enabling health, employment, learning and social opportunities through access to digital devices, connectivity, ability to use technology and capacity of the voluntary sector to use technology for better service to the community. Read more
This is a collective impact approach with the goal of bringing together seven (7) Black and racialized grassroots ethnocultural groups to work together to increase inclusion, provide services to ethnocultural minority community members and address systemic discrimination. This is a partnership for the success of Black and racialized Families, Children and Youth through culturally based/appropriate social programs. Read more
ANYO tackles mental health, wellness, employment and the issues that matter – with activities by and for immigrant youth. Summer 2023 ANYO soccer program registration is open for registration. For children and youth aged 6 to 17 years old click here to register. Youth and young adults aged 18 – 30 years old use this form to register – here. If you missed the 2022 final game on Sept. 4 at TD Place Stadium, watch it here. Congratulations to Ottawa Mulenge FC, the 2022 champions!
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We’re tackling the digital divide to create employment, health, learning and social opportunities through access to digital resources. As of March 31st, 2023, we have:
- Distributed 384 total digital devices to community members with a total of 579 individuals impacted.
- Connected 163 households with low-cost plans.
- Trained 761 seniors to use a computer or tablet.
- Trained and placed 61 young people from marginalized communities in digital jobs.
- Provided digital literacy training to 600 community members, including newcomers, seniors, and refugee women.
- 90% of participants now have the means to use digital devices and the Internet to connect to services, friends, learning and other online amenities.
These programs offer critical services to our community, enhancing quality of life, improving health, and These programs offer critical services to our community, enhancing quality of life, improving health, and reducing isolation.reducing isolation.
Results
- 90% of participants reported increased self-confidence, emotional resilience, and ability to manage stress
- 87% of those who attended peer support sessions felt more connected to their community and peers
- Increased awareness and utilization of mental health resources among racialized youth
- 70% of participants who accessed counseling services reported improved coping strategies and emotional regulation
- 85% of youth leaders took active roles in advocating for mental health support in their communities
- Youth-led initiatives helped reduce stigma around mental health in racialized and marginalized groups
- More racialized youth and marginalized community members are now seeking and receiving mental health support
- Strengthened culturally responsive approaches in mental health service delivery