Corporate

c o m m u n i t y s o l ut i o ns d i v e r si t y Sometimes the richest information comes from informal conversations. People are relaxed, the conversation flows easily and ideas emerge. That is exactly what WSPS was counting on when it extended invitations to individuals in thirteen communities across Ontario to participate in its first series of regional roundtable discussions last fall. WSPS engaged with customers, volunteers and communi- ty members to learn more about their history, identity and the people, events and characteristics that make them unique, as well as their goals and aspirations. To help get things started, a facilitator led each group through an exploratory exercise delving into the commu- nity's identity, its history and aspirations, with a focus on the role that WSPS could play in helping them achieve their goals. This is the first time that WSPS reached out into the com- munity in this way. The discussions will inform the devel- opment of plans, which will reflect the diversity of each community, the influencers who can help with implemen- tation, and the unique solutions that are needed to help nurture change and growth. WSPS is poised to adapt and evolve to meet the chang- ing needs of the communities we serve. A great example of this is the Ring of Fire region in Northern Ontario. This development project will spur job growth and business development, and will have a significant impact on socioeconomic conditions. Participants of discussions in Timmins and Thunder Bay, including First Nations repre- sentatives discussed this topic. WSPS' community plan will reflect the massive change that is expected in these regions over the next ten years. It was clear that participants were energized by the round- table conversations. They immediately saw value in work- ing in tandem to achieve their goals and they were quick to offer up the names of other individuals who should join the dialogue. This is an exciting opportunity for WSPS to understand the needs of our customers in a much broader context and it is helping us to paint a picture of our work across the province. "I think of it as a quilt," says Linda Sukk, WSPS Manager, Stakeholder Consultation. "Each region is building its pan- el with its own fabric and threads and it is WSPS' work to sew them together. What we are building can't be built independently – the sum is greater than the parts." Collaborating in the community to create a culture of health and safety across the province 9 2013 annual report  |  Workplace Safety & Prevention Services

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