On June 23, 2011 SMDHU teamed up with the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) to host a workshop on building healthier communities. Local Mayors and other elected officials, public health professionals, municipal staff and professional planners were among the approximately 90 people in attendance. The event was held at the West Orillia Sports Complex in Orillia, Ontario.
Two informative presentations by SMDHU Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Charles Gardner and OPPI’s, Rob Armstrong started off the morning. Following the opening presentations, an energetic panel discussion took place with broad representation from politicians and stakeholders from across Simcoe-Muskoka. A unique addition to the day was a graphic recorder who took detailed illustrative “minutes” of the topics discussed.
The workshop concluded with 11 breakout sessions allowing participants to discuss various strategies, opportunities, or barriers to achieving an “ideal” healthy community. Valuable input was collected from each breakout group and was reported back to workshop attendees.
The diverse group of attendees and thoughtful discussion contributed to the overall success of the event.
SMDHU and OPPI would like to extend a special thanks to the following:
Follow the links below for Dr. Gardner’s and Rob Armstrong’s presentation slides:
Follow the links below for the illustrative graphics (These graphics are available for public use courtesy of the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit):
