Diversity and Community Engagement Advisory Committee

This committee is responsible for connecting and engaging all residents of the Town of Ajax with their community. This goal is accomplished through understanding, discussion, community building and celebration. The committee works actively to formulate and recommend opportunities to enhance community relations and inclusiveness, while embracing our diversity. As ambassadors, committee members nurture and promote a sense of belonging for every Ajax resident.

Diversity and Community Engagement Advisory Committee Minutes

Mandate

The mandate of the Diversity and Community Engagement Advisory Committee includes:

1. To provide advice on policy and practices as presented by Town staff relating to inclusiveness and community building to ensure that the contributions, interests and needs of all sectors of Ajax's diverse population are reflected in the Town's operations and service delivery.
2. To discuss and advise on solutions on how to connect neighbourhoods, diverse populations, other demographic groups etc. to participate fully and equally in the Town programs and events.
3. To provide a forum to engage community residents in discussion on current issues in their neighbourhoods and how the Town may be able to respond or to assist in addressing these concerns

The Advisory Committee will review information pertinent to this mandate and discuss alternative courses of action as required, which will include recommendations to Council on policies, programs and regulations as appropriate. The Advisory Committee may provide, from time to time, input and support to broader corporate initiatives that advance the interests of the Town as identified in the corporate strategic plan.

Committee Composition

• Up to two Council member(s)
• Up to nine citizens. The membership should reflect the diversity and scope of Ajax's population.
• Support staff : Committee Coordinator (LIS), Community Development Coordinator (REC)

Frequency of Meetings

• monthly, except July and August (up to 10 per year) inclusive of public meetings

Specific Roles

• review and advise on strategies that promote and encourage strong sense of community. Programs such as the Mayflower Foundation and Character Community will be explored as possible models.
• provide input and guidance on the establishment of marketing and communication initiatives that strengthen engagement in our community, including specific targeted neighbourhood programs, discussions and public forums etc.
• provide support and input on neighbourhood discussions and public forums that help residents connect.
• provide input on various events and projects that encourage participation from our diverse communities including events through the Integrated Community Arts and Cultural Plan and various tourism initiatives as supported in the Economic Development Strategy.
• encourage dialogue from our diverse communities in order to celebrate our differences and promote events and community happenings
• establish effective partnerships with various service providers such as educational institutions, BIA’s/business partners, service organizations, etc., in the town.