Brant Community Foundation Releases 2024 Vital Signs Report

BRANT COMMUNITY FOUNDATION PRESS RELEASE (BRANTFORD)

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The Brant Community Foundation launched its second Vital Signs report at an event held Friday, November 22nd. The Brant Vital Signs report is a snapshot of the community at this point in time based on several measurements collected by the Vital Signs steering committee.

The report includes measurements on 10 key community vitality indicators such as public safety, health and wellness, economy, environment and more.

The 2024 Vital Signs report provides data that is a snapshot in time for our local communities which include Brantford, Brant County, Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation. The Vital Signs Steering Committee, provided crucial leadership, advice and support in creating the publication. The data and research team, led by Wilfrid Laurier University’s Dr. James Popham, were relentless in accessing the data that tells the story about the state of key indicators that are seen in the report. researcher/writer Paul Bakker developed the narrative that speaks to the findings. Putting it altogether in an attractive and readable design was Josh Leyton of Loop: Design for Social Good.

A Tool for Action

“This report is foundational to our mission,” said Anne Marie Peirce,

Executive Director of the Brant Community Foundation “It provides a comprehensive understanding of our communities by combining data with the expertise and perspectives of our partners. This collaboration ensures that the voices and issues most critical to our communities are heard and addressed ”

Highlighting Diverse Voices and Collaboration

“Leading the Steering Committee for this report was a privilege,” shared Paula Thomlison. “It was essential that the report reflect the many facets of community life and addressed the unique challenges and opportunities within our region This report serves as a roadmap toward a brighter future, focusing on the quality of life for all.

The Steering Committee, chaired by the Foundation’s past chair, Paula Thomlison, included local leaders such as Rita-Marie Hadley, Chris McCurdy, James Popham, Paul Bakker, and Foundation leader Anne Marie Peirce, along with Amy Sterkenburg and Rebecca Launchbury. Their collaborative efforts ensured the report captured a diverse and inclusive view of the community.

“Working with the Brant Community Foundation on this report is a source of both professional and personal pride,” said Dr. James Popham, researcher and contributor. “Our efforts have culminated in a resource that empowers community leaders and residents with knowledge to address challenges and mobilize change Together, we can better understand and respond to the evolving needs of our communities.”

What’s in the Report?

The Vital Signs report offers vital insights into the state of our community, celebrating achievements while highlighting areas for improvement. Each indicator outlines important statistics, current impacts, opportunities for action, and ways community members can help. In the 2024 edition, the widening gap between the rich and poor and concerns about health emerged as pressing issues By contrast, community strengths like learning, health and wellness, and public safety highlighted in the last report remain points of pride.

Engaging the Community

To continue the conversation, the Brant Community Foundation is launching a speaker series, Vital Conversations, aimed at fostering deeper discussions about these findings. Community groups and companies interested in hosting a presentation are encouraged to reach out to the Foundation.

The Brant Vital Signs report is available for download at brantcf ca For inquiries or to book a speaker, contact Anne Marie Peirce, Executive Director, at (519) 756-2499.