News & Updates

Are you passionate about public participation (P2) and engagement? Do you want to make a positive impact on your community, organization, or even on a broader scale? Welcome to the world of IAP2 Canada – the International Association for Public Participation Canada.

IAP2 Canada is more than just an organization; it's a vibrant community of professionals and enthusiasts dedicated to advancing the field of public participation and engagement. Membership with IAP2 Canada is not just a mere subscription; it's an investment in your personal and professional growth and an opportunity to drive positive change in the world around you. By being a member of IAP2 Canada, you gain access to resources and opportunities that can propel your public participation career to new heights. From connecting with professionals who share your passion to accessing valuable professional development resources, the benefits of membership with IAP2 Canada are truly invaluable.

In this article, we'll explore the value of becoming a member of IAP2 Canada, including access to a global network, exciting benefits of member discounts on training, exclusive access to webinars, certification, and the opportunity to engage with chapters and communities of practice.

Access to a Global Network:

By becoming a member of IAP2 Canada, you gain access to a vast network of like-minded individuals and organizations across the country and around the world. This network is a goldmine of knowledge, experiences, and opportunities waiting for you to tap into. Whether you're seeking advice, looking for collaborators, or simply want to connect with fellow P2 and engagement enthusiasts, IAP2 Canada provides the platform to do so. IAP2 Canada offers numerous networking events, conferences, and training opportunities where you can meet and connect with other P2 professionals, both in person and virtually. These events provide a valuable opportunity to build relationships, exchange ideas, and learn from industry leaders. Additionally, as a member, you will have access to member directories, further facilitating connections and collaboration.

Training and Professional Development:

Continuous learning and growth are essential in any profession and when it comes to advancing your public participation and engagement career, training and professional development are key. And that's where IAP2 Canada comes in. IAP2 Canada offers its members a wealth of training opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of public participation and engagement. What's more, members enjoy exclusive discounts on training programs and our internationally recognized Certificate in Public Participation, making it even more accessible to invest in your career development.

Certification:

For those looking to distinguish themselves in the field, IAP2 Canada offers the Certified Public Participation Professional (CP3) Program, our professional designation program available only to members. Earning a CP3 certification from IAP2 Canada not only validates your expertise but also demonstrates your commitment to ethical and effective public participation. Our CP3 certification is highly regarded in the industry and can be a valuable asset as you advance in your career.

Webinars:

Members get exclusive access to our live and on-demand webinars hosted by experts in the field of public participation. These webinars provide valuable insights and keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices.

Mentorship Program:

The IAP2 Canada Mentorship Program is an exclusive benefit for our members. This unique initiative is your personal pathway to growth and excellence in the field of public participation. Connect with experienced mentors who will guide and inspire you, helping you navigate the complexities of public participation and engagement. Elevate your skills, broaden your horizons, and become a true leader in the world of P2.

Community:

As a member, you have access to the IAP2 Canada communities, including local chapters and communities of practice. This allows you to connect with professionals in your region and nationally who share your passion for public participation. Through chapters and networking events, our annual conference, and communities of practice, you have the opportunity to build relationships with like-minded individuals and tap into a supportive community.

Membership with IAP2 Canada is not just a membership; it's a commitment to the values of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in decision-making processes. It's an investment in your personal and professional growth and an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world. Your community, your organization, and your career will thank you for it.

Joining IAP2 Canada allows you to become part of a supportive and knowledgeable community of professionals who are dedicated to advancing the field of P2 and engagement. Through networking events, training, chapters, communities of practice, and member resources, you can connect with other P2 professionals, expand your knowledge, and make a lasting impact in your career and the field of public participation and engagement. Join IAP2 Canada today and be part of this incredible journey toward positive change.

Access member benefits now!

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023 IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in public participation and engagement. These awards celebrate projects and initiatives that exemplify the core values of the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) in Canada, including Indigenous Engagement, Respect for Diversity, Inclusion and Culture, Visual Engagement, and Extending the Practice through Creativity, Contribution, and Innovation in the Field.

Indigenous Engagement Award AND Project of the Year Award: Sea2City Design Challenge, City of Vancouver

Sea2City Design Challenge was awarded the prestigious Indigenous Engagement Award for its groundbreaking approach to collaborative planning and design on Vancouver's False Creek shoreline. Led by the City of Vancouver, this 12-month competition sought to address the challenges posed by rising sea levels, urban development, ecological revitalization, and decolonization and reconciliation with Host Nations.

What set Sea2City apart was its commitment to Indigenous engagement. Indigenous knowledge keepers and designers were actively involved, marking the first time in Canada that a competition model was used for such a planning and adaptation initiative. The project incorporated comprehensive public engagement efforts, including public learning sessions, decolonization workshops, and reflection sessions with advisory groups and design teams, ensuring broad participation and diverse voices.

Sea2City exemplifies the spirit of Indigenous engagement, fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous Peoples and communities and setting a high standard for future projects of this nature. Furthermore, it is ready to compete on the global stage as it enters the prestigious IAP2 International's 2023 Core Value Awards.

Watch their video

Respect for Diversity, Inclusion and Culture Award: Starting with Residents: Diverse Engagement on Ottawa's Waste Management Planning, City of Ottawa and Hill+Knowlton Strategies

The City of Ottawa and Hill+Knowlton Strategies have been recognized with the Respect for Diversity, Inclusion and Culture Award for their exceptional efforts in engaging the community on Ottawa's Waste Management Planning. With over a million residents to serve and a pressing need for a sustainable waste management plan, this project was vital.

The City of Ottawa employed diverse engagement tactics, including honoraria for equity-seeking community members, multilingual content, focus groups with underrepresented communities, and the use of a paid sample. Their commitment to hearing a wide variety of voices ensured an inclusive and comprehensive waste management plan. By actively listening to its residents and stakeholders, the city is forging a path towards a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future for waste management.

Watch their video

Visual Engagement Award: City Plan - Nanaimo ReImagined, City of Nanaimo

City Plan - Nanaimo ReImagined earns recognition in the Visual Engagement category for its innovative approach to community engagement. Unifying traditionally separate documents to serve as Nanaimo’s Official Community Plan, this project achieved record-breaking community response rates, engaging new voices and employing diverse outreach strategies. It showcased the power of visual engagement and creative communication in making public participation truly meaningful.

Most importantly, this initiative addressed participation gaps, ensuring that diverse perspectives were heard and reconciliation outcomes were prioritized. The result? A passionate community actively contributing to a vision that reflects their desires and values, setting the stage for a brighter and more inclusive Nanaimo.

Watch their video

Extending the Practice through Creativity, Contribution, and Innovation in the Field Award: Engagement in Mental Health and Substance Use: A Pilot Study, Mental Health Commission of Canada

The Mental Health Commission of Canada has been acknowledged for its pioneering work in engagement within the mental health and substance use health sector. Through an innovative pilot project, they have paved the way for meaningful collaboration with people with lived and living experience. Their standardized framework promises to revolutionize engagement strategies across the sector, emphasizing the collaborative nature of public participation.

View their presentation

Honourable Mentions: Extending the Practice through Creativity, Contribution, and Innovation in the Field

Growing Together: The City of Kitchener

This project addresses the increased demand for new housing around Kitchener's light rail transit system and aims to meet various growth, density, housing, and environmental targets. The key objective is to ensure that community engagement outcomes align with policy goals, giving community feedback significant importance.

Their innovative approach involved a room-sized, 3D printed physical model of the city, which provides a unique way to bring the city to life and visualize possibilities. Interactive workshops allowed participants to have a hands-on experience, fostering collaborative discussions about growth and change. This approach encouraged direct engagement with the city's fabric and uses practical building scenarios, making the results directly applicable to policy, regulation, and design considerations.

Watch their video

Food for Feedback: City of Burlington

The City of Burlington's Corporate Communications and Engagement division deserves recognition for its innovative "Food for Feedback" initiative. This project cleverly combines city projects in need of resident input with the universal appeal of food. By offering free meals from food trucks in exchange for feedback, this approach not only encourages participation but also fosters community connection. It's a brilliant example of community engagement and celebration, embodying the idea that "if you feed people, they will come."

View their presentation

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients and honourable mentions of the 2023 IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards. These projects exemplify the values of inclusion, diversity, creativity, and meaningful engagement, setting the standard for public participation across Canada. We look forward to seeing how their successes inspire future initiatives in the field of public participation and engagement.

In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving world, staying competitive and relevant in your chosen field is essential. This is especially true in the realm of public participation and engagement, where the need for effective communication and collaboration is paramount. To meet these demands, the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Canada offers a comprehensive learning pathway designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this field. While the core training offered in our new Certificate in Public Participation provides a solid foundation, accessing additional training options can be a game-changer.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of accessing additional training options available on IAP2 Canada's learning pathway.

Enhanced Skill Set

The core training offered by IAP2 Canada provides fundamental knowledge and skills required for meaningful public participation and engagement. However, additional training options allow individuals to expand and enhance their skills. These supplementary courses cover a wide range of topics, including facilitation techniques, diversity, equity and inclusion, conflict resolution, and indigenous awareness.. By investing in additional training, professionals can become well-rounded experts in their field, better equipped to handle complex challenges.

Specialization and Expertise

Public participation is a multifaceted discipline with various subfields, such as environmental engagement, urban planning, and healthcare communication. Accessing additional training options enables you to specialize in your area of interest, helping you gain the specific knowledge and expertise required for success in your chosen niche.

Career Advancement

In today's competitive job market, having a diverse skill set and specialized expertise can significantly boost your career prospects. Employers value professionals who continually invest in their development and can bring a unique skill set to their organization. By completing additional training on IAP2 Canada's learning pathway, you'll be better positioned for career advancement, whether it's a promotion within your current organization or a new opportunity in the field of public participation.

Networking Opportunities

One of the often-overlooked benefits of additional training options is the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals. IAP2 Canada's courses attract participants from diverse backgrounds and industries. Engaging with these individuals during training sessions, workshops, and conferences can lead to valuable connections and collaborations. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and provide a support system throughout your career.

Adaptation to Changing Trends

The field of public participation is constantly evolving, with new tools, technologies, and methodologies emerging regularly. Additional training options keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations. This knowledge ensures that you remain agile in your approach and can adapt to changing circumstances and stakeholder expectations effectively.

Increased Confidence

Confidence is a crucial attribute for successful public participation professionals. Additional training options not only provide you with new skills and knowledge but also boost your confidence in your abilities. The more you invest in your development, the more capable you'll feel when faced with challenging situations, making you a more effective practitioner.

Conclusion

IAP2 Canada's learning pathway offers a solid foundation through core training, but the benefits of accessing additional training options are clear. From enhancing your skill set and specializing in your area of interest to advancing your career and staying up-to-date with industry trends, the advantages are numerous. Moreover, the opportunities for networking and the confidence gained from continuous learning can significantly impact your success in the field of public participation and community engagement. Embracing these additional training options is not just an investment in your career but also in the communities you serve.

Learn more about our learning pathway!

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Award category: Visual Engagement Award, IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards 2022

Source: Marten Falls First Nation Community Access Road

Recipient: AECOM Canada Ltd.

Marten Falls First Nation (MFFN) is a remote First Nation community in northern Ontario, located at the junction of the Albany and Ogoki rivers and about 300 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay. MFFN has a winter access road but it isn’t reliable and makes transportation of goods and people difficult. The proposed all-season road will connect the community to Ontario’s provincial highway network in the south, providing year-round access to this remote First Nations community and helping foster economic development and improved quality of life for community members.

MFFN has started an Environmental Assessment and Impact Assessment for the proposed Community Access Road. These environmental processes will determine the preferred route and identify how the proposed Community Access Road may affect the social, cultural, economic, built and natural environments. To identify the route the road will follow and to understand how best to avoid and/ or minimize Project effects, data is collected, studies are conducted, and people are consulted. This includes consultation with 23 Indigenous communities, Tribal Councils, and Provincial and Territorial Organizations, in addition to the public, government agencies and interested persons.

This project summary outlines the visual tools and informational methods used to engage community members and other stakeholders in the project.

Project Branding

The overall project branding stems from the development of the “benefits tree”, as envisioned by the MFFN Chief. The illustration highlights the positive impacts on the community represented in the form of a growing tree; it depicts the long-term growth and benefit afforded by the all-season access road. The tree illustration was one of the first items designed and set the tone for the overall design of the remaining project materials.

A custom footer design was also developed using six icons, each representing important values to the MFFN community and key areas that will be studied during the environmental processes, including vegetation, water and forests, moose, fish, birds, and activities on the land.

Lastly, the primary branding colours are drawn from the MFFN logo, reflecting the community’s chosen tone and feel.

Informational Methods

Monthly Electronic News Blasts

Monthly electronic news blasts are distributed to highlight current and upcoming activities, including a look ahead at Field Study programs, and links to discussion guides, videos, and how to participate in the Indigenous Knowledge Program.

Fact Sheets

Fact sheets provide plain language explanations about the Community Access Road and key Project milestones, like the Terms of Reference phase of the Environmental Assessment. Fact sheets are translated to Ojibway, Oji-Cree and Cree; ensuring that community members have equal access to the information regardless of the language they speak.

Additional informational tactics included job advertisements to hire Field Study Support Staff, field notices, a conference banner and social media posts.

Engagement methods (online and in-person)

Public Information Centres and Surveys

Two Public Information Centres have been held in Thunder Bay and surrounding municipalities; each was an opportunity to discuss the Community Access Road and obtain input from interested persons. Interactive display boards, surveys and maps - requesting specific feedback - were created, including an empty-tree illustration where MFFN community members could add benefits and voice their concerns about the proposed access road.

Discussion Guides

Discussion Guides are an opportunity to share about upcoming programs and encourage feedback on key questions, enabling people to help shape programs (like field studies) before they are conducted. Sample Discussion Guide.

Website

The website was developed with consideration for users that live in remote areas with bandwidth limitations; the information displayed is organized to meet the audience’s needs and limitations with data/ engagement methods. The site provides ongoing access to information including planned consultation and engagement activities, and serves as a method to receive feedback and comments.

Videos

Videos are created to explain topics being studied for the Community Access Road, including the “how and why”. The value of Indigenous Knowledge, to inform Western science, is a key theme. The website showcases videos in a Netflix-style layout so that people can pick the topic that interests them most, once they watch the video, they can review the Discussion Guide and fill out a survey to provide feedback.

Terms of Reference

For the Environmental Assessment, a Terms of Reference was developed. As this was issued at the height of COVID-19, a special webpage was developed along with high-level explainer videos, transcripts (English and Oji-Cree), fact sheets and download links to the report, split into smaller sizes, to make it more accessible to people with low internet bandwidth.

Colouring Pages

Colouring pages were designed for youth engagement and for use at in-person consultation events. Illustrations of animals and landscapes were developed to reflect the Project, the community values and the species that were part of the field studies.

In 2015 a group of public engagement professionals asked an important question - “what should IAP2 Canada be doing to help advance reconciliation and support Indigenous inclusion in public participation (P2) and engagement activities in the organization and in our profession?".

In late 2018, the IAP2 Canada Board of Directors approved an Indigenous Inclusion Action Plan. One of the identified activities was to develop a common foundation of understanding about the history and experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Canada within IAP2 Canada leadership so that IAP2 Canada can better participate in reconciliation by advancing Indigenous inclusion within the organization and throughout the practice of P2 in Canada.

Transformative change toward quality learning environments

Co-created with the late Sioux Elder Lloyd Ewinen and modelled on his interpretation of medicine wheel teachings, the Indigenous Awareness Learning Program was developed as a continuous and never-ending circle that goes beyond traditional learning practices to include four domains found in quality learning environments - spiritual (creativity), physical (health), intellectual (citizenship), and emotional (social-emotional).

The semi-structured, cohort-based learning program was initially developed for IAP2 Canada staff and members of the board; however, the program was made available to all P2 practitioners across Canada so they could better support Indigenous inclusion in their P2 and engagement activities.

How does the program work?

Participants are matched with a learning partner with experience working with Indigenous communities and placed into a cohort of no more than four people. Over the six-month duration of the program, participants engage in interactive and applied learning as they work through five assignments, each based on the quadrants of the traditional Medicine Wheel.

Measuring the impact of our 2022 cohort

The program's impact is measured using quantitative data, such as the number of participants and learning partners, and qualitative data, such as feedback surveys and observations including increasing the comfort level, knowledge, and awareness of participants.

In 2022 we had:

Feedback received in 2022 includes the following:

“I have committed to sharing knowledge and experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Canada as part of my own desire to advance Reconciliation efforts. This program was a fantastic way to deepen my practice and expand my personal learning journey with my learning cohort.”

“This program was both eye-opening and informative in a safe and supported forum. The design of the program allowed for access to excellent resources but more importantly, connected me with people across Canada looking to learn and improve our systems to better serve our communities and Indigenous, Metis and Inuit populations. It was humbling to realize how little I understood about the historical barriers and legacy that our society carries forward today with respect to Indigenous communities. This course was a wonderful first step on my journey for growth.”

“This program is unique in how it truly deepens your awareness and understanding of Indigenous nations. It is not just theoretical, as it allows to build real relationships with Indigenous stakeholders as part of the program.”

Interested in finding out more about the Indigenous Awareness Learning Program? Get started today!

By the IAP2 Canada Research Committee

This fourth and final installment of key findings from IAP2’s last State of the Practice survey shines a spotlight on the demographic profile of P2 practitioners who participated and shares some insights into how the face of the P2 practice may be changing.

P2 Practitioner Profile

Half (50%, up from 39% in 2017) of P2 practitioners who made their voices heard for this survey have been practitioners between 10 and 24 years. A little more than 40% have practiced in their field between 1 and 9 years.

The government sector represents more than three-quarters (77%) of P2 practitioner respondents’ primary type of involvement in P2; this is consistent with past results where 80% reported employment with a government body. The private sector represents less than a third (29%, up from 24% in 2017). P2 practitioners also continue to work in non-profit organizations and academic institutions.

P2 practitioners play various roles within the P2 practice. Members who responded to the survey heavily represented P2 specialists (62%), followed by facilitator (56%) and consultant (56%). Less than a third play the role of a planner (29%). This helps explain the continuing additional memberships respondents have in Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and the International Association of Facilitators (IAF). There is a noted rise in respondents with memberships in environment-related organisations including EcoCanada, Association Québécoise pour l’évaluation d’impacts (AQÉI) and various waste-related associations. Members are also involved with the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) and International Association of Business Communicators (IABC).

P2 practice is widely spread across a number of communities and industries. Most members who responded to the survey are typically involved in policy (64%) or land-use planning initiatives (64%). More than half of respondents are involved in community development (52%) and transportation (49%) projects. Fully one-third of respondents work with Indigenous communities. Other reported areas of focus include health, environment, education, affordable housing, waste, energy, and sustainability. A small number of respondents are involved in mining (12%) or human security and peacebuilding (12%) initiatives. While similar to results from prior surveying, there is less concentration of activity in community development, energy and mining in this most recent survey.

The majority of P2 practitioners who participated in the survey come from Alberta (38%), followed by British Columbia (32%), however, participation also came from every province in Canada, the Northwest Territories, and an international respondent.

Overall participation was half of that of the previous survey. Ninety-three percent (93%) of respondents are IAP2 members (it was 89% in 2017). We anticipate this reflects a COVID-19 impact as the survey was released early during the global pandemic. This survey has highlighted the much has changed as a result of COVID-19. In response to these changes, the surveys IAP2 Canada conducts will also be changing to ensure the information gathered from practitioners provides insights of value in return.

Perspectives on Effectiveness of P2 Process

Practitioner perspectives on the effectiveness of the P2 process has evolved in the last few years, perhaps demonstrating a deepening in the practice as more practitioners are taking advantage of IAP2 training, and a widening of scope more evening across various community and industry domains.

The majority (98%) of respondents agree P2 brings value to a process (the remaining 2% holding a neutral stance). Eighty-nine percent (89%, down from 94%) believe P2 benefits outweigh its cost and 11% feel neutral. Unlike the 2017 survey, no one identified that costs outweigh benefits. Sixty-three percent (63%, up from 58% in 2017) are feeling that P2 is a costly process. Eleven percent (11%) disagree, however.

This may be attributable to the wide variety of benefits identified through survey responses:

• All respondents (100%) find P2 is being used to assist organizations with decision making;
• 96% (up from 89% in 2017) see benefits in using P2 to extract local knowledge to understand issues and concerns;
• 80% (consistent with 2017) believe P2 is being used to enhance support for a project;
• 78% (consistent with 2017) see social media and online tools increasing the effectiveness of the P2 process;
• 76% (up from 71%) agree the public perceives P2 to be a valuable process;
• 65% are seeing P2 contribute effectively to processes it is embedded within (such as Environmental Assessments); and
• Some (42%, up from 34%) are observing P2 used to directly assist organizations with decision-making.

The question of value, in comparison to costs, is one that rises often for practitioners of P2. The IAP2 Research Committee are interested in studying the ‘returns’ possible through P2 and hosted a workshop at the North American Conference in Banff to begin exploring the topic. It is our hope that a clear, succinct and evidence-based analysis of benefits will demonstrate what many practitioners already know -- P2 is a value-creating activity.

We are proud to recognize organizations and individuals who have gone above and beyond in their public participation and engagement activities through the annual IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards - celebrating those who exemplify excellence, quality and innovation.

Help us spread the word!

Why apply for the Core Values Awards?

   Showcase your impact
   Spotlight your creativity
   Stand out against competitors
   Build more influence in the industry
   Attract potential clients and partnerships
   Celebrate your team

The award categories

• Visual Engagement Award
• Organization of the Year Award
• Research Award
• Extending the Practice through Creativity, Contribution and Innovation in the Field Award
• Indigenous Engagement Award
• Respect for Diversity, Inclusion and Culture

View the details

How to apply!

A registration fee of $100 is required for each application. The fee is in place to cover the costs of program administration. However, please let us know if this is a problem because we do not want it to be a deterrent to applying. You can pay online through the IAP2 Canada website - details are in the submission package below.

Access the 2023 Submission Package

Help us spread the word!

We’d love your help getting the word out about the 2023 IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards. We encourage you share this post with your colleagues and peers!

Below you’ll find resources to help let your colleagues and peers know about the 2023 Awards including how to apply, videos, and social updates.

Videos

You can share the following videos we posted on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

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Catherine Rockandel, IAP2 Canada

March 2023

In case someone didn’t say it this month, you – the members, volunteers, trainers are the heart of IAP2 Canada. Without you, IAP2 Canada could not advance excellence in the practice, impact and the value of public engagement across Canada. As President, I am grateful for the friendships, the commitment and the dedication that you continue to contribute.

Undertaking and implementing organizational change

As we all know, organizational change and transformation can be very challenging – especially when we have limited resources as a small, not-for-profit association. Since onboarding our new Executive Director, Valoree McKay, in November 2021 we’ve had some consistent wins while we work to address some organizational challenges including staff capacity, outdated or ineffective operational systems, as well as the launching of the Certificate in Public Participation and learning pathway for the new globally harmonized training. 

The Operational team has shared that they have received positive feedback on some of the changes implemented in the past few months. I want to thank our members, trainers, volunteers, and chapters for reaching out and sharing frustrations, concerns, and ideas on how we can continue to improve. The Board has taken this input seriously and strategized new approaches with our Executive Director, Valoree McKay. We’ve had to make some difficult decisions to manage competing priorities and focus our resources, and we appreciate your patience and support.

While the transitions can sometimes seem overwhelming, we’re optimistic about the positive impact of implementing some new initiatives, including:

• updating our Strategic Plan to clarify several of the strategic objectives and extending the plan to 2024 ensure several activities underway can be successfully completed

• investing in new automated systems to improve everything from financial management, information management including databases and learning management systems to support training programs

• hiring an Association Management firm with a team of three to support administration with the intention of improving member, trainer, and volunteer experiences

• hiring new staff including Claudia Sighomnou, Manager of Professional Development and Training and Sarah Alvarado (contract) who has been updating the website, marketing, and communications materials

• ensuring continuation of the CP3 professional designation as the gold standard, with new updates and integration with our new learning system

Leading Change Through Collaboration 

As a result of a collaborative effort with our Executive Director Valoree McKay, International representative Jane Newlands, and myself we were able to secure $40,000 in funding from IAP2 International to support French translation of the new globally harmonized training. We are very grateful to the International Board for their support!

Most recently, I virtually attended two full days of meetings with the International Board to strategize new approaches for improving processes and communications between the regions and the IAP2 International body. We look forward to sharing the recommendations that emerge from these meetings over the coming months.

Join Our Board of Directors

The Nominations and Elections Committee is preparing for the upcoming AGM and Board elections in June. If you are interested in learning more about serving on the Board, please reach out. The Board of Directors is a great team that works well together and the future is bright! We hope that you will consider joining us.

Image caption: Virtual What Matters to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) Patient Partners in Culturally Safe Engagements Circle, June 17, 2021

Award category: Indigenous Engagement, IAP2 Canada Core Values Awards 2022

Source: Culturally Safe Engagement: What Matters to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) Patient Partners

Recipient: BC Patient Safety & Quality Council

How do we know when we’ve achieved cultural safety? When both sides leave feeling content.

This is one answer shared as the BC Patient Safety & Quality Council met with Indigenous patient partners to develop resources about culturally safe patient engagement. It was co-created with Indigenous patient partners based on conversations at an event in June 2021.

The event was co-designed and co-facilitated by First Nations patient partner, the late Gitxsan Hereditary Chief Sim’oogit Ma’os, Bill Blackwater Jr., Tammy Hoefer, Director of Patient & Public Engagement and Cathy Almost, Engagement Leader. Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) patient partners were asked what mattered to them when participating in culturally safe patient engagement opportunities. Health care partners were invited to attend as witnesses to the patient partners’ stories by being compassionate and silent observers, giving attention to others without judgement and providing a space for partners to speak their truth.

It was held in celebration of International “What Matters to You?” Day in British Columbia.

When providers have a conversation about what really matters to the people they care for, it helps ensure that care is aligned with patient preferences, builds trusting relationships between patients, families and their health care providers, and advances person- and family-centred care.

Following the event, discussion notes were themed, and eight key principles emerged:

• Awareness & Understanding
• Learning & Education
• Build Relationships
• Prepare
• Kindness & Empathy
• Respect
• Value
• Listen

Themes were developed into key messages, recommendations, and actions. The actions listed come from some suggestions made by the patient partners, but mostly from the lived experience and learnings of Cathy Almost on her journey of self discovery. Cathy would like to give credit to Verna Howard, Gitxsan, Cherie Mercer, Nisga’a, Victoria English, Blackfoot, Edna Leask, Selkirk, Donna Simon, Métis, Sheila Dick, Secwepemc and Mark Matthew, Secwepemc for their generosity in sharing their knowledge about living an Indigenous life and how to engage Indigenous voices in a good way. 

Bert Azak, a Nisga’a graphic designer, contributed his artwork and designed two resources: an at-a-glance document which summarizes the principles, and a companion guide which provides further details about the conversation that took place during this event. These resources represent a moment in time when 13 patient partners gave their opinions about culturally safe patient engagement.

Read the Companion Guide

View the Pamphlet

Over the past few months, the IAP2 Canada team has continued to work on enhancing marketing and communications, launching new training and professional development, and improving our administrative processes. Our goals include strengthening and increasing awareness of the IAP2 Canada brand as the leading public participation and engagement organization, promoting best practices and the value of effective P2 to decision makers, and enhancing the digital transformation strategy to improve communications and learning systems so we can attract new business and partnerships to IAP2 Canada. View the updated Strategic Plan 2021-2024.

A few things we are currently working on to support these strategic goals include:

• implementing a new LMS system to improve efficiency, communication, and the overall user experience for our training and professional development services

• onboarding a new Association Management firm with a team of three people to support administration with the intention of improving member, trainer, and volunteer experiences

• enhancing our brand presence by updating web page design and content on the current website to make it more user and SEO friendly, changing the sitemap so information is easier to find, and enhancing our social media presence

• working toward a bilingual website in 2023 to better support our Francophone audience

• researching new website and membership platforms, for potential implementation in 2024-2025, that have more capabilities and updated features including better design, mobile responsiveness, accessibility, SEO tools, plugins, and integrations

• streamlining and updating our regular emails, including:

• • monthly “P2 Insights & Updates” email that provides timely, relevant updates about IAP2 Canada happenings

  • twice monthly “Upcoming P2 Training Opportunities” email keeping our audience informed of training and professional development scheduled for the upcoming 2-month period

  • new “Quarterly Connections” email that highlights relevant articles, successes, tips, tools, and resources to help support your public participation and engagement activities

If you have questions about any of these, or other IAP2 Canada initiatives, please get in touch at info@iap2canada.ca.