‘Belonging matters’: Workshop aims to create stronger communities and connections

Students, educators and community leaders gathered in Clinton to inspire next community champions. CTV London’s Scott Miller has more.

Generations of Huron County’s community leaders have gathered in Clinton to try and find out what’s keeping some people still cooped up, like during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re hearing that people are still not back to where they used to be. They’re not out socially. And so, we’re trying to figure it out why?” questioned Michelle Millar, of the United Way of Perth-Huron.

Millar is one of the organizers of the “Belonging Matters Workshop” that brought together 200 educators, leaders, and kids for a frank conversation about how to create stronger community connections in the wake of COVID and online division.

“It’s a lack of loneliness. I think there are a lot of kids who are together through social media, but you’re alone in different aspects,” said Joey Jackson, a Grade 8 teacher at Mitchell District Secondary School.

“So, I think it’s like feeling like you’re connected to different people that, when you’re gone, you’re missed.”

Ellie Newcastle, a Grade 12 student at Goderich District Collegiate Institute, said they are trying to get kids engaged.

“Because we haven’t been for a little bit,” she said.

“After COVID, stuff died down. And I think it’s really important that we get back together and really empower one another to try and make a difference.”

Creating those connections is always easier said than done, and it won’t be solved in a one-day workshop, but it’s a step, hope organizers towards the create of more school clubs, or other tangible ways to try and create the next leaders of Huron and Perth Counties.

“As a youth representative, it’s hard to get youth perspectives out there. And it’s hard for students to come out in the community and talk about their perspectives,” said April Selkirk, another Grade 12 student at Goderich District Collegiate Institute.

“So, I really try to join those in this ‘Belong Matters’ workshop. It’s so incredible to see so many students here, who want to give their perspectives, and it just gives me hope for the future.”

Ryan Erb, executive director of the United Way of Perth-Huron, said the whole point is to draw out of “the assets” in the room.

“We see kids as having answers to the problems that they’re facing, and that the community is facing. And if we can draw that out of people, if we can draw that out of leaders that are working together with the kids in our community, then we have a much better shot of doing something, because when we own it, we’re ready to solve it,” he said.