When people engage in communities, they gather, share and work together to find collective solutions. People engage in communities through social connections but also through groups, volunteering, and financially supporting the charitable sector.
ENGAGING IN COMMUNITY GROUPS Community isn’t only based on geographic location. A community can be cultural, religious, interest- driven and more. Community groups such as cultural and newcomer groups, sports associations, hobby clubs and religious organizations are important in community connection. But people across the country aren’t joining these communities like they once were, and after the pandemic, there may be a long road ahead before they restore pre-pandemic engagement.
LOCAL VITAL SIGNS REFLECTIONS The West Vancouver
Foundation framed its 2021/22 Vital Signs Report around The Power of Connection and how themes such as reconciliation, belonging, housing and well-being are addressed. “One of the fundamental truths about humans is that we are driven to be part of something greater than we are—the simplest expression of this desire is our need to be connected to our families, friend groups, and community.” Read their full Vital Signs report.
Since 2013, there has been a 19% decrease in community group participation. This trend is shown through the responses to questions asked by Statistics Canada in 2013 and as part of the General Social Survey in 2022. Full information about both surveys is available in the Research Report. In 2022, only 42% of people participated in a community group within the last 12 months, down from 63% in 2013. The decline is undoubtedly partly because of the pandemic, as many group activities were suspended, and people did not always feel safe participating.
28
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker