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Sunshine Initiative hosting fifth annual Citizens' Forum

Do you have an idea of how to make Orillia a happier and healthier place to live? Then, come to the forum on Oct. 26
Gord - Forum photo
Gord Ball is shown facilitating a previous forum with a shirt on that says it all when it comes to the citizens' group. Contributed photo
NEWS RELEASE
SUNSHINE INITIATIVE
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What’s the Big Idea?

The big idea is that it takes lots of ideas, and lots of people working together, to make a better community. Orillia’s Sunshine Initiatives group wants to help turn those ideas into action.

That’s why it’s holding a fifth annual Citizens’ Forum on Saturday, Oct. 26 at St. James’ Anglican Church, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The forum brings together Orillians willing to share ideas and ways to move them forward.

Space, time and refreshments will be provided to keep people talking. Since 2015, Sunshine Initiatives forums have brought together almost 400 citizens willing to think about and work on ways to improve the city.

Ideas have included everything from mental health support, repair cafés, age-friendly initiatives and creating a “Bee City.” There have been 111 ideas that have come forward over the years, and 26 of those have been implemented over the short or long term.

So, if you have an idea of how to make Orillia a happier and healthier place to live, the first step is sharing it with others at the Citizens’ Forum.

The key ingredient – the big idea – is to have lots of ideas. So all are welcome, including those who may not have an idea yet, but would be willing to further someone else’s good idea.

As in previous years, a follow-up event, the Orillia’s Choice Awards, will be held in the spring to give added support to ideas generated at the forum.

Mayor Steve Clarke launched the Sunshine Initiatives in 2015 to help the people of Orillia contribute to making their city happier, healthier and sustainable.

The Sunshine Initiatives Working Group includes the mayor and other community leaders committed to helping citizens move forward with their ideas for local improvements.

Anyone wishing to participate is welcome on Oct. 26. Advance registration (no charge) helps with planning, so if possible please register at www.eventbrite.ca

For more information email [email protected]
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