2 015 ALBERNI VALLEY’SALBERNI Message from the Board Chair
I am proud to serve on the Board of the Alberni Valley Community Foundation and I am proud of the many charities throughout the region that we have helped and brought together over the years. This, our ® first VitalSigns publication, is a wonderful tool for bringing the community together and inviting dialogue on a wide range of issues that affect us all. It will provide a base to record the progress that we as a community make and it will help the Alberni Valley Community Foundation make informed decisions in our grant making. The Alberni Valley is already a “Community with a Heart” and this report will ensure we become a “Smart and Caring Community,” alongside each of the 27 other community foundations in Canada releasing a report this year. I would like to thank the many individuals and agencies who shared their data and knowledge with us. I do hope you enjoy this report and look forward to your continued input for future publications.
Hugh Grist Board Chair Alberni Valley Community Foundation
Message from the Research Facilitator
Compiling data, pictures, and stories for the inaugural Alberni Valley VitalSigns® report has been a privilege. Learning about all of the positive actions being taken by Alberni Valley residents, service organizations, non-profits, and local governments to better our community has been encouraging. I am excited about all of the different ways that this report will be used, and look forward to seeing readers roll up their sleeves and take informed action to build on the assets in this Valley. After all, in the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” Maggie Hodge Kwan Research Facilitator 2 2 About VitalSigns® Reports Data & Indicators
VitalSigns® is a community check-up conducted by community foundations across Canada that measures the vitality of our communities, identifies Data significant trends, and supports action on issues that are critical to our quality Much of the data within this report was collated by of life. For more information, please visit www.vitalsignscanada.ca. the CFCs data partner, the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). Where possible, it Why a VitalSigns® report? has been verified by local experts in each issue area. Additional information was provided by local By compiling local information and tracking it over time, we will deepen our reports and organizations. All data sources are listed community knowledge and provide a valuable tool for our foundation, on page 21. residents, local government, and other community groups, giving us a basis from which to develop innovative ideas that build a stronger Alberni Valley. Indicator Selection How is the report organized? Indicators were selected and prioritized based on the The VitalSigns® report format captures trends on issue that are important to following guidelines: the quality of life and health of a community, in its broadest definition. This report is arranged by 12 issue areas that contribute to our community’s vitality. Indicator Characteristics: • Perceived public interest (informed by community Under each of the issue areas, several indicators are evaluated using relevant data. The data show whether there is improvement or decline from previous survey and consultations) years or how the Alberni Valley compares to other communities and/or • Does the indicator inspire action? provincial and national trends. • Does the indicator report on an issue or trend that individuals or communities can do something about? What is the Alberni Valley? • Does it reveal both strengths and weaknesses of For the purposes of this report, the Alberni Valley is defined as the City of Port the Alberni Valley? Alberni, Regional Districts B, D, E, and F, and the Tsahaheh 1, Ahahswinis 1, Alberni 1, and Klehkoot 2 reservations. All efforts have been made to focus on data from this area, but occasionally different geographic areas are measured. Data Selection • Understandability and measurability This will be noted. • Ease of collection
• How current the information is and frequency of Community Foundation of Canada collection for future use The Community Foundation of Canada (CFC) oversees the development of all 191 community foundations across Canada. The CFC also coordinates the VitalSigns® report, and provides support regarding community engagement, data collection, and reporting. In 2015, 28 Canadian community foundations produced a VitalSigns® report. 3
How to Use This Report Table of Contents
READ Please take the time to thoroughly read this report. Ponder what the 2015 Report Highlights 5 data within means to our community. Our Valley 6
SHARE Arts, Culture, & Recreation 7 Share this report with your family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, and Belonging & Leadership 8 elected officials. The report is accessible in print or online at www.albernifoundation.ca. Environment 9
DISCUSS Children & Youth 10-11 When you read this report, what surprised you? What stood out? What Income Gap 12 will the Alberni Valley look like 2, 5, or 10 years from now? Getting Started in Our Community 13 EXPLORE Health 14-15 If you want to know more about an indicator statistic, visit the cited source (page 21). Housing 16 Learning 17 ACT If you or your organization is motivated by what you read, use this Safety 18 report as a starting point for positive action. Seniors 19
SUPPORT Work 20 There are many worthy organizations in the Alberni Valley that could Sources 21 benefit from your participation and/or financial support. About the Alberni Valley GET POLITICAL Community Foundation 22 Use the information in this report to engage and inform politicians and other decision makers.
CONTACT US The AVCF knows the issues and organizations in our community. If you are looking for ways to make a difference, we can help. 4
2015 Report Highlights
Arts, Culture, & Recreation Health Employment in the arts and culture sector has more than Life expectancy is slowly rising, but other health issues, including doubled in the last decade. More good news? Traditional heavy drinking, smoking, and stress, hinder our progress. language revitalization is being led by a passionate local group. Housing Belonging & Leadership Housing prices and related costs are relatively low for homeowners. However, for nearly half of renters, shelter is an While the number of charitable givers has decreased in expensive endeavor. recent years, the average amount of money given has increased. Additionally, the Alberni Valley enjoys a high rate of volunteerism. Learning While high school completion rates, Aboriginal high school Environment completion rates, and the number of citizens with a post-secondary education continue to rise in the Alberni Valley, they are still below Citizens take action to ensure the health of the the provincial average. environment. Recycling and alternative forms of commuting are positive choices. Our air quality, especially in winter, could be better. Safety While many crime rates are still higher than the provincial average, Children & Youth the overall crime rate, property crime rate, and sexual assault rate Our children and youth are as healthy or healthier than have all been decreasing steadily for many years. the provincial average, but too many children and youth live in poverty. Seniors There are far fewer poor seniors in the Alberni Valley than there Income Gap are in the province and country. The senior population is expected While different organizations are working to provide to nearly double by 2034. services and opportunities for people who do not make enough money to live comfortably, the need is greater Work than the current resources. High rates of unemployment and low wages result in 40%+ of the working population unable to make a living wage. (Note that Getting Started in Our Community Statistics Canada and Living Wage Canada calculate two separate The Alberni Valley has a much smaller visible minority amounts for a living wage.) population than the provincial average. Migration is negative. 5
What We Do, 20132 25 20 15 Alberni 10 5 BC 0
OUR VALLEY
-0.8% 47.3 13.3% 15.7% Popula on change Median age Aboriginal popula on Popula on of children and Between 2006 and 2011, the The median age in the Alberni Valley In 2011, 13.3% of Alberni Valley youth popula on of the Alberni Valley has been rising: in 2001, it was 41.4 residents iden fied as Aboriginal In 2011, 15.7% of Alberni Valley declined slightly from 25,297 to years. In 2006, it rose to 45 years, and compared to 6.6% for Vancouver Island residents were children and youth ages 25,085. At the same me, neighboring in 2011, to 47.3 years. and 5.4% for Bri sh Columbia. 14 years and under. This is comparable communi es grew: The Clayoquot In 2011, the median age in Bri sh Of the 3,335 Aboriginal residents in the to the Bri sh Columbia average of Sound experienced a 9% increase in Columbia was 41.9 years, and was 40.6 Alberni Valley in 2011, 2460 iden fied 15.4%, and one percentage point residents, and Nanaimo’s popula on years na onally.1 as First Na ons. 755 iden fied as below the Canadian average of 16.7%. grew by 3.6%. The popula on of Bri sh Me s, and 75 iden fied as Inuit.1 Our popula on that is 65 years and Columbia grew by 7%.1 over is 20.4%, compared to 15.7% in Bri sh Columbia and 14.8% in Canada.1
6 Did You Know? In 2012, British Columbia was the Canadian province with the highest number ARTS, CULTURE, & RECREATION of working artists.6
7,488 2.7% 94,592 215 Registered library borrowers Employment in cultural Admission to recrea on Tradi onal language speakers In the Alberni Valley, 29.5% of occupa ons facili es There are 215 tradi onal Aboriginal residents are registered library Employment in cultural industries In 2014, nearly 95,000 visits to language speakers in the Alberni borrowers. In comparison, across the (which includes arts, culture, heritage, recrea on facili es were recorded by Valley. Great efforts are being made by Vancouver Island Regional Library recrea on, and sport) increased from the City of Port Alberni. That’s 3.7 visits the Quuquuatsa Language Society, service area, 38.5% of residents have 1.1% in 2001 to 2.7% in 2011. Of the per person in the Alberni Valley. 19% whose vision is “have a fluent Nuu- library cards. 10,860 respondents who reported that of the City of Port Alberni’s budget was chah-nulth community and society.”1,5 Total visits to the Port Alberni library they were employed, 295 worked in allo ed to Parks, Recrea on, and branch in 2014 were 114, 293.3 cultural occupa ons.1 Heritage in 2014.4
FACT IMPACT
The Alberni Valley Community Foundation has provided grants to arts and Number of working artists in the culture organizations every year since 1999. The Foundation has been privileged Alberni Valley.1 to contribute to efforts in musical theatre, fine arts, spoken word, and dramatic 125 performance. Recently, the Foundation granted funds to support moving the historic millstones to the bottom of Roger St, where they will be the focal point of a 7 new park. BELONGING & LEADERSHIP
48%, or nearly 5 of 10, Alberni Valley residents engaged in unpaid volunteer activities in 2010.7
78.8% ê é 93% 46.4% Sense of community belonging Charitable dona ons Life sa sfac on City of Port Alberni voter In the 2014 Canadian Community In 2008, 20% of tax filers made 93% of Alberni Valley residents turnout Health Survey, 78.8% of Alberni Valley charitable dona ons. Charitable reported that they were either 46.4% of eligible voters par cipated in respondents reported feeling a donors have decreased every year “sa sfied” or “very sa sfied” with their the 2014 municipal elec on. This is “strong” or “somewhat strong” sense since, with 17.8% of residents making a lives in a 2014 survey. In the last significantly higher than the 35.5% of community belonging. The financial dona on in 2013. In the same decade, life sa sfac on in the Alberni turnout in 2011, and the 29.3% turnout provincial average for 2014 was 69.3% me period, the average dona on Valley has always been reported as in 2008.10 and has remained fairly stable over the amount increased by 8.3% from $240 90% or higher.8 Note: The Alberni Clayoquot Regional last decade.8 to $260.9 District does not collect this informa on, as voters are registered on the day of the elec on. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROFILE
The Young Professionals Alberni Valley, pictured above, were founded in 2012 to provide networking, professional development, and community service opportunities to professionals under 40 years of age. In 2015, the YPAV celebrated the opening of a community garden on 4th and Napier and are busy working on a public art project depicting various events in Alberni Valley history. Future projects include 8 upcycled bike racks. For more information, visit http://ypalbernivalley.ca.
ENVIRONMENT
449.7L Winter 81kg 1,781mm 2.9°C Daily water consump on Air quality, poorest Household recycling Average annual Mean minimum per capita In the Valley, air quality is Average amount of recycling precipita on temperature, 2015 In 2014, Alberni Valley measured by concentra on of produced per year by each of 2014 saw an increase in February is usually the coldest residents got their metered par culate ma er (PM). the 8155 households in the precipita on over 2013, when month in the Alberni Valley. water from the City of Port From 2010-2014 concentra ons City of Port Alberni, Beaver 1,041.0mm of precipita on Between 2001 and 2014, our Alberni, the Stamp River, and of PM were rela vely low Creek, Hupacasath, and fell. The dampest year in average mean minimum compared to BC guidelines. the Cherry Creek Waterworks Tseshaht communi es that recent record was 2010, when temperature was -1.5° in However, winters consistently District. Other sources that are have access to recycling pick- 2,626.8mm of precipita on February. Our mean maximum show PM2.5 levels higher than up services by the ACRD.11 14 not measured include wells, BC objec ves. Excessive burning were recorded. temperature of 27.9° in July is 4,11,12 springs, and lakes. contributes to high levels of PM. close to the 2001 – 2014 13 average of 26.7°.14 FACT IMPACT
Number of certified green In 2015, the Foundation was pleased to support Cycle Alberni with a grant for buildings in the Alberni Valley, Bike to Work Week, in May. While biking to work was the main focus, participants by BOMA or LEED standards: were also encouraged to bike to school, and to bike for exercise and running ADSS and the BC Hydro errands. In total, 150 riders participated. They rode a total of 3,240 kilometres, 15 16 2 Operations Facility. and saved 703 kilograms of greenhouse gases along the way! 9
Responses from Grade 7 students when asked "I believe I can make a difference in the world.”19
Agree Neutral Disagree
CHILDREN & YOUTH
30.8% 4.8% 3 in 10 1470 Child poverty rate Low birth weight Vulnerability rate Registered library borrowers The most recent child poverty In 2013-2014, 4.8% of babies born in The Early Development Instrument In 2014, 19.7% of registered library sta s cs, from 2013, indicate that the Central Vancouver Island, which measures the development of users were children and youth. In the a er-tax poverty rate for children includes the Alberni Valley, were children in five domains (including Alberni Valley, there are 1,045 0-17 in the Alberni Valley is 30.8%. classified as low birth weight, or physical, social and emo onal children and 425 teens with library This indicator has remained fairly weighing 2.5 kilograms or less. This is competence and communica on cards.3 consistent, dropping to 29.8% in 2008 a decrease in low birth weight babies: skills). It demonstrates that 30% of and rising to 32.0% in 2009. Across in 2012-2013, 5.5% of babies born Alberni Valley children are Bri sh Columbia, the 2013 child were classified as low birth weight. “vulnerable,” meaning that without poverty rate was 20.4%, a difference The provincial average for 2013-2014 addi onal support, they may of 10.4 percentage points.1 was 6.0%.17 experience future challenges in school and society.18 FACT IMPACT
Since the Foundation began granting in 1999, services for children and youth Hours of time donated by Parks, have been a funding priority. Over $30,000 has been granted to local agencies Recreation, and Heritage who work with families. In 2010, the Foundation became a sponsor of the Parks,
3020 summer youth volunteers, Recreation, and Heritage Our Town events, held four times each summer to offer 10 families an opportunity to enjoy fun activities in the outdoors. Sponsorship has 10 2015 continued every year since.
52% of SD70 grade 4 PA Action is a youth-led group students responded focused on the beautification of public “Very much true” when property in the Alberni Valley. Their asked if there were first task? Applying glow-in-the-dark adults in the community paint to the Pathway to Success who really care about walkway that connects ADSS to North them. Island College (right). The stencils that have been used were designed and By grade 7, students who responded “Very much created by the members of PA Action. true” to the same There are stylized mountains, trees, ques on had fallen ten stars and moons. If you would like to percentage points to get involved, please contact Parks, 42%.19 Recreation, and Heritage.
80% 15.9% 12.2% 78% Self-rated mental health Obesity rate Youth unemployment rate Teens on their phone or online When asked to rate their mental health When surveyed, 15.9% of Central The 2013 Labour Force Survey showed a er their expected bed me for the 2013 BC Adolescent Health Island youth, which includes the a 12.2% youth unemployment rate for The 2013 BC Adolescent Health Survey Survey, 80% of youth chose Alberni Valley, indicated that they the Vancouver Island and Coast noted that 78% of teens in Central “excellent” or “good.”20 In 2003, the were obese. Compara vely, 18.9% of Economic Region, which includes the Vancouver Island were on their phone first year that Alberni Valley youth youth in the South Island iden fied as Alberni Valley. For comparison, the or online a er they were expected to were surveyed for the Canadian obese, as did 19.1% of Bri sh provincial rate in 2013 was 12.9% and, be asleep. This matched the provincial Community Health Survey, 77.8% Columbian youth, and 19.4% of the youth unemployment rate was average. As teens reported more sleep, chose “excellent” or “very good.” Canadian youth.8 13.7% na onally.2 they were more likely to report their Youth are not asked for a ra onale.8 mental health as “excellent” or “good.”20 COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROFILE
Through the doors carved by Gordon Dick, left, Alberni District Secondary School students access the Neighbourhood of Learning. Neighbourhood of Learning creates community within the school and provides many services for students, including access to staff from the Alberni Valley Community School, Island Health’s Youth Clinic, Alberni Community and Women’s Services, Alberni Drug and Alcohol Prevention Services, and mental health assistance. In addition to access to professional services, students may access emergency clothing, hygiene supplies, and food. 11
What is the income gap? Simply put, it is the gap in income between one group and another (often, the bottom 20% of income earners, or the poor, and the top 20%, or the rich).
One innovative program working to reduce the income gap is the Healthy Harvest farm on Beaver Creek Road. Funded by the Port Alberni branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association and by grants, land is leased from the Hupacasath First Nation for farming. Six individuals with mental health diagnoses, alongside two part-time staff members and a crew of volunteers, learn farming skills in a peaceful, low-stress environment. Healthy Harvest produce is sold at a farm store INCOME GAP on the property and funds are re-invested in the program.
18.5% 17.3% 46% $30,400 Overall poverty rate, a er tax Families making less than Renters spending more than Median income of single parent In 2013, the overall poverty rate in the $30,000 per year 30% of income on rent and families, a er tax Alberni Valley was 18.5%, up slightly According to the 2011 Na onal u li es While this amount has increased every from 17.8% in 2012. The 2013 figure Household Survey, 17.3% of Alberni Of the 3,610 renter households in year since 2008, it s ll falls below the was 13% higher than the provincial Valley families earn less than $30,000 Alberni-Clayoquot, 46% spend more $33,579 that Canadian Living Wage average, and 26.6% higher than the per year. Compara vely, the provincial than 30% of their before-tax income on Framework calculated for Port Alberni. na onal average.21 rate is 13.6% while the Canadian rate is rent and u li es. The rental market in Addi onally, it falls below the
12%. On the opposite end of the the Alberni-Clayoquot region is rated provincial median of $37,180 and the 21,23 spectrum, 20.2% of Alberni Valley “Severe” by the BC Non-Profit Housing na onal median of $38,710. families earn $100,000 or more. In BC, Associa on.22 33.5% of families make $100,000+.1 FACT IMPACT
Accessing food on the weekend can be difficult for those who are food insecure. In The number of meals 2014, the Foundation provided a grant to the KUU-US Crisis Line Society for their (breakfast and lunch) weekend outreach program. Between June 1, 2014, and May 30, 2015, 1,494 26,493 served at the Bread hampers were distributed to individuals and families. Hampers contain food and of Life in 2014.24 seasonally appropriate clothing. The Foundation has also provided grants to the 12 Backpack Program at 8th Avenue School and to the Port Alberni Shelter Society. Alicia LaRue moved to the Alberni Valley in 2014 in pursuit of a GETTING STARTED more balanced life. After learning about the low home prices and the close proximity to a variety of recreation activities, Alicia decided that the Valley would be her next home. Born in California and raised in Alberta, Alicia has lived in many different communities but says that the Alberni Valley stands out because of it’s friendliness, and the numerous opportunities for locals to improve their community.
Though she is busy with both a young daughter and her own graphic design business, Alicia still finds time to develop her large painted mural, right, at Canal Beach. An avid kitesurfer, Alicia is excited about the potential of further waterfront activities in the Alberni Valley, and sees the area as a developing hub for wind enthusiasts.
-249 27 3.5% Migra on Languages spoken Largest immigrant group Visible minority From July 1, 2013 to June 30, Aside from Canada’s two official The Alberni Valley’s largest group of Aside from the Alberni Valley’s 2014, the popula on of the Alberni languages, 25 other languages are immigrants moved to Canada from the Aboriginal popula on, only 3.5% of the Valley shrunk by 249 spoken in the Alberni Valley. A er United Kingdom. Other rela vely large popula on belongs to a visible people. In the Alberni-Clayoquot English, Punjabi is spoken with the groups of immigrants are from the minority. The largest visible minority census division there was a net loss of greatest frequency, followed by Netherlands, Germany, India, and the groups in our Valley are South Asian 6 people from interna onal migra on, French, Italian, and German.1 United States.1 and Chinese. In Bri sh Columbia, 51 people to interprovincial migra on, visible minori es make up 27.3% of the and 212 people from intraprovincial popula on.1 migra on, and a natural increase of 20 people.25 COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROFILE
Literacy Alberni Society is a designated Welcoming Centre for new immigrants under the Welcoming Communities Program of the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training. One of the Society’s core programs is the English as a Second Language Settlement Assistance Program, which allows learners to better their English language skills, learn more about Canada, and explore their new community. 13 Walk With Your Doc is a public health initiative that the Alberni Valley, along with many other communities across the province, participates in annually. The first Alberni Valley event began in 2011, and it has grown every year since. In 2015, 95% of local doctors participated, and nearly 800 citizens came to Bob Dailey Stadium to take a lap with their doctor. This gives the Alberni Valley bragging rights to the best turnout in the province! A local organizing committee brings together medical health professionals, entertainers, community organizations, and vendors to ensure an evening of health and well-being.
HEALTH
78.67 5.8% 22.6% 1 in 3 Life expectancy from birth Propor on of the popula on Perceived life stress Rate of influenza immuniza on 2014 data from Vital Sta s cs shows without a regular doctor In 2014, 22.6% of Central Vancouver Fewer residents in the Alberni Valley that life expectancy is slowly rising in In 2014, 5.8% residents of Central Island residents age 15 years and older receive influenza immuniza on than Local Health Authority 70, Alberni. But Vancouver Island, which includes the reported perceiving that most days in the provincial average. In 2014, 30.5% at 78.67 years, it is s ll below the life Alberni Valley, reported that they did their life were quite a bit or extremely of Valley inhabitants got flu shots, expectancy for the island Health not have a regular doctor.8 There are stressful. Central Vancouver Island is compared to 34.1% of the Bri sh service area (82.05 years) and Bri sh 22 general prac oners in the Alberni slightly less stressed than the rest of Columbia popula on and 32.5% of all Columbia (82.92 years).17 Valley. If every resident in the Valley the province. In 2014, the Bri sh Canadians.8 had a regular doctor, each GP would Columbia average was 23.5%.8 average 1,140 pa ents.36
FACT
Number of mapped trails in the Alberni Valley, ranging from 1km 140 to 20+ kms39 14 176 103
BC Alberni Annual average alcohol sales, in litres, per person age 19+ in 2015.38 HEALTH
66.9% 91.5% 18.8% 18.5% Self-rated mental health Food security Smoking rate Heavy drinking 66.9% of people age 15 years and older When food security in Central In 2014, 18.8% of the Central 18.5% of Central Vancouver Island and living in Central Vancouver Island Vancouver Island was last studied, in Vancouver Island popula on ages 12 residents reported consuming 5 or rated their mental health as “very 2011-2012, 91.5% of residents were years and older smoked daily. This is a more drinks on one occasion at least good” or “excellent,” compared to found to be very food secure. This 3% increase from 2013, when 15.3% of once a month. This number is 2.7 69.7% of Bri sh Columbia residents means that most residents could afford Central Vancouver Islanders smoked percentage points higher than the and 71.1% of Canadians.8 to purchase some food. Factors not daily. Compara vely, 14.3% of all Bri sh Columbia average of 15.8%, but taken into considera on include Bri sh Columbia residents smoke daily. only slightly higher than the Canadian quality and quan ty of food, cost of 18.1% of Canadians smoke daily.8 average of 17.9%.8 food, and access grocery stores and locally grown foods.8
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROFILE
The Port Alberni Integrated Health Network (IHN) offers collaborative care to the community. The Network is comprised of a nurse, a social workers, and two dieticians who help patients working towards a healthier lifestyle. In partnership with many different community organizations, they offer many health promotion programs, including smoking cessation, exercise and fitness classes, mental and emotional wellness classes, and information series on many of today’s most prevalent diseases. 15 HOUSING Rental Vacancy Rate26
6.7 2013 5.6 2014 4.2 2015
0 10
11.9% 16.8% 12 $194,300 Dwelling units requiring major Homeowners spending more Number of beds in emergency Benchmark home price repair than 30% of their income on homeless shelter A home in the Alberni Valley costs less This indicator has stayed fairly stable housing costs The Port Alberni Shelter Society than average homes on Vancouver over me: in 2006, 11.2% of private While many renters spend the majority operates the emergency shelter. In Island. Across Vancouver Island, the dwellings required repair. In 2011, it of their income on housing, most extreme weather, from November 1- average sale price for a home in increased slightly to 11.9%. homeowners do not. Only 16.8% spend March 31 of each year, the Shelter may summer 2015 was $338,700. 6.5% of dwellings in neighbouring one-third or more of their before-tax offer 15 addi onal beds. In 2013, the Data from 2015 indicates that the Nanaimo require major repair, which is income on housing costs such as last year that BC Housing required average price for a detached bungalow closer to the provincial average of mortgage, property taxes, and u li es. turn-away counts, the Shelter had to in BC is $689,000, due in part to 1 7.2%. This is significantly lower than the turn away 744 individuals due to lack desired markets in Vancouver and 27 28,29 provincial average of 23.8%.1 of space. Victoria.
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROFILE
The Alberni Valley Community Stakeholders Initiative to End Homelessness (AV CSI) formed in 2007 to create a plan to eradicate homelessness in the community. Members of this open, ad-hoc group work on a variety of housing initiatives. Pooling their expertise and their resources has helped sustain this group, who meet to plan, prioritize, and act. Investing a portion of their funding in the Foundation has helped this group maintain their sustainability and impact as well: in 2014, a grant from the Foundation empowered the AV CSI to update their plan to end homelessness. Many local organizations participated in the development of the updated plan. 16 LEARNING
74.3% 41.7% $4095 43.9% 41% High school comple on Aboriginal high school Average annual cost of Popula on 15+with Illiteracy rate rate comple on rate university post-secondary 41% of Alberni Valley 2013-2014 data from School Data from 2013-2014 notes a undergraduate tui on Census data demonstrates residents are lacking adequate District 70 demonstrates that 41.7% six-year comple on Vancouver Island University is that more of us are obtaining literacy skills. Those with low the six-year high school rate for local Aboriginal the closest public university. post-secondary training. In literacy levels may struggle comple on rate has been students. Compara vely, the Tui on has risen slightly from 2001, 35.5% had completed with daily tasks including steady or climbing since the six-year comple on rate for $4015 in 2013-2014 to $4095 post-secondary. In 2011, grocery shopping, reading a 2008-2009 school year, when Aboriginal students in Bri sh in 2014-2015.31 43.9% had. The Valley is 11.8 prescrip on, applying for jobs, it was 63.1%. The provincial Columbia was 61.8% - a percentage points lower than and helping children with average in 2013-2014 was difference of 20.1 percentage the provincial average of homework.30 83.7%.30 points.30 55.7%.1 FACT IMPACT
Percentage of 2014-2015 Grade Each year, the Foundation provides bursaries to students who have demonstrated 7 students who said they scholastic achievement. Additionally, Foundation grants have supported planned to graduate high educational programs and providers, including the Alberni Valley Community school.19 School, the public library, North Island College, and ElderCollege. 97 17 SAFETY
109.9 4,844 ê é 50.0 12 Crime severity rate Property crime rate, per Vehicular crime rate Sexual assault rates, per Beds in women’s and At 109.9 per 100,000 persons 100,000 popula on While incidence of vehicular 100,000 popula on children’s transi on in 2014, the Crime Severity Property crime rates in the the have decreased from 152 The sexual assault rate has house Index was above the na onal Alberni Valley have been per 100,000 the s in 2013 to fallen 20% in the Alberni In the Alberni Community and level (66.7 per 100,000 steadily decreasing since they 90 in 2014, rates of Criminal Valley since 2013, and 64.7% Women’s Services Society’s persons) and provincial figures reached their peak in 2005. Code traffic offenses per since 1998. Provincial reports 2014-2015 fiscal year, the (91.6 per 100,000). The level Local property crime rates 100,000 have risen 44.8% are similar. However, police Transi on House provided decreased by 16.3% compared have decreased by 17.3% from 250.3 in 2013 to 362.5 in cau on that many sexual 1947 nights of bed stays for to 2013 and 51.5% compared since 2013, and are just below 2014. Criminal Code traffic assaults go unreported, and women and children at risk of to 1998. the provincial average of 4,886 offenses include speeding and that it is difficult to get an or fleeing domes c violence. per 100,000. impaired driving. accurate sta s c.
COMMUNITY STORY
Crime is not the only measure of a community’s safety. Because much of the Alberni Valley is in a tsunami inundation zone, it is crucial that residents are alerted to potentially hazardous weather situations. To this end, the ADSS Civics class chose to act on a suggestion from the City of Port Alberni Fire Chief: implement a new test sound for the Alberni Valley Tsunami Warning System. After months of deliberation and a few trips to city council meetings, the class decided on a didgeridoo track. The sound will ring out on the first Wednesday of each month as a reminder of the possibility of a tsunami 18 in the Valley. Popula on Changes 6000
4000 2011
2000 2034
0 According to a report from Island Health, the popula on ages 75 and older is expected to increase 96% by 2034.34 SENIORS
3.7% 27.4% 2 192 59.7% Poverty rate, a er tax, Percentage of senior Number of seniors- Residen al care beds Percentage who do not for seniors aged 65+ popula on living alone specific physicians There are 192 residen al care eat recommended fruits 2013 financial data for the More than one-quarter of There are 2 physicians in the beds spread across 6 sites in and vegetables Alberni Valley shows that 3.7% seniors in the Alberni Valley Alberni Valley specializing in the Alberni Valley. A 2014 Canadian Community of seniors are living in poverty. live alone, and 60% of them seniors care: a gerontologist, Addi onally, there are 36 Health Survey asked seniors 36 This is an increase from 2012, are women. Programs and a geripsychiatrist. assisted-living suites for those aged 65+ if they ate 5 or more when only 2.5% of seniors including Be er at Home and who need some help to fruits or vegetables daily. were living in poverty, but s ll the Sunshine Club’s Friendly con nue to live 34 Nearly 60% of Central below the provincial and Phone Service ensure that independently. Vancouver Island residents, 35 na onal averages of 8.2% and seniors are checked up on. which includes the Alberni 21 6.4%, respec vely. Valley, do not.8 FACT IMPACT
The Echo Sunshine Club received a grant from the Government of Canada’s the annual cost of Echo New Horizons for Seniors Program to build pickleball courts. Pickleball is a Sunshine Club membership, for relatively new sport, but is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada because it $60 people age 50 and better37 is fun and accessible. The courts are located at Gyro/ Recreation Park and will be available to Valley pickleball enthusiasts. 19 New Business License Applica ons10 WORK
2013
2014
2015*
0 50 100 150 *2015 data only incudes January – July 2015 due to publica on deadlines.
46.0% 10.4% $46,317 2.5% 40.8% Employment rate Unemployment rate Median annual earnings Involuntary part- me Percentage of income 2011 Na onal Household The unemployment rate has Alberni Valley residents with workers earners not earning a Survey data shows a 46% also seen significant changes. full- me employment One-quarter of workers in the living wage employment rate for City In 2001, the unemployment reported an annual income of Alberni Valley are part- me The Census defini on of residents, and 50% for rate for the Alberni Valley was $46,317 in 2011. Assuming a workers, and of those, 10% - working poor is anyone not residents in the ACRD. Since 14.7%. It then dropped to 40 hour work week, this or 2.5% of total workers – earning a living wage, which 2001, employment for City 7.7% in 2006, and rose to amounts to $22.27 per hour. would like to work more than Sta s cs Canada defines as residents has decreased 12.3 10.4% in 2011. Provincially Median annual earnings in the part- me hours. $25,000/year. In 2011, 40.8% percentage points, from and na onally, the unem- Alberni Valley are slightly The largest group of part- me of income earners were 1 58.3%. ACRD rates have also ployment rate was 7.8%. lower than Bri sh Columbia, workers are youth, followed earning less than $20,000/ 1 2 fallen by 2.8 percentage points at $49,143. by women ages 25 – 54. year.1 from 52.8%.1
20 Community Leadership Group SOURCES Photo Credits 1 Sta s cs Canada, 2001 and 2006 census; 2011 Na onal Household Survey 2 Sta s cs Canada, 2000-2014 Labour Force Survey Title page: Charmead Schella 3 Vancouver Island Regional Library Page 6: Freya Knapp 4 City of Port Alberni 2014 Annual Report Page 7: Kris Dobson* 5 Quuquuatsa Language Society h p://www.quuquuatsa.ca Page 8: Young Professionals Alberni Valley 6 Province of Bri sh Columbia Arts & Culture Facts & Stats Page 9: Jim Garner* 7 Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering, or Par cipa ng Page 11: Anne Ostwald 8 Sta s cs Canada, Canadian Community Health Survey Page 14: Parks, Recrea on, and Heritage 9 Canadian Revenue Agency, Financial Data & Charitable Dona ons Page 15: Kris Dobson 10 City of Port Alberni www.portalberni.ca Page 17: Stacey Manson 11 Alberni Clayoquot Regional District www.acrd.bc.ca Page 18: RCMP Speed Watch Program 12 Cherry Creek Waterworks District Page 20: Charmead Schella 13 Air Quality Council of Port Alberni Back cover: Lisa Garcia* 14 Canadian Meteorological Centre, Climate Informa on Branch 15 BOMA BESt; Canada Green Building Council *Indicates photo contest winner. Way to go! 16 Bike to Work BC h ps://www.biketowork.ca/port-alberni All other photos provided by the AVCF. 17 BC Vital Sta s cs, bcstats.gov.bc.ca/Sta s csbySubject/Demography/VitalSta s cs.aspx 18 Human Early Learning Partnership, Early Development Instrument earlylearning.ubc.ca/maps/edi/nh 19 Human Early Learning Partnership, Middle Years Development Instrument earlylearning.ubc.ca/maps/mdi/nh 20 McCreary Founda on BC Adolescent Health Survey, 2013 21 Sta s cs Canada, Survey of Labour and Income Dynamics 22 BC Non-Profit Housing Associa on h p://bcnpha.ca/rhi/# 23 Living Wage Canada h p://www.livingwagecanada.ca/index.php/living-wage-communi es/bri sh-columbia/ 24 Bread of Life Centre 25 Sta s cs Canada, Es mates of Popula on 26 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corpora on Rental Market Report 2015 27 Port Alberni Shelter Society 28 Vancouver Island Real Estate Board, www.vireb.com 29 Royal Bank of Canada Housing Affordability Report 30 School District 70 31 Universi es Canada www.univcan.ca 32 Uniform Crime Repor ng Survey 33 Alberni Community and Women’s Services Society 34 Local Health Area Profile: Alberni (70), Island Health, 2013 35 Be er at Home – Port Alberni, Community Developer Final Report 36 West Coast General Hospital 37 Echo Sunshine Club 38 Island Health 21 39 Alberni Valley Trails Planning Study, Friends of the Log Train Trail Society, 2006
About the Alberni Valley Community Foundation
Who The Alberni Valley Community Foundation (AVCF) is one of the 191 community foundations across Canada. There are six directors currently, and they are appointed by a committee comprised of representatives from local government, education, business, and labour.
What The AVCF: - Invests in the future of our community by creating and managing funds: all gifts from donors go into permanent endowments! - Provides grants to local charities to improve quality of life. - Addresses community needs and opportunities; encourages caring citizens to provide leadership. - Ensures the integrity of funds and that the wishes of donors are respected.
When The Foundation was formed in 1995 with contributions from MacMillan Bloedel, the Vancouver Foundation, and local donors. In 1997, the first community requests were funded. In 2015, the Foundation holds roughly $800,000. The interest that this money makes is distributed to community organizations annually. Please visit www.albernifoundation.ca for granting information.
Where The AVCF serves the whole Alberni Valley, including lands administered by the City of Port Alberni, the Alberni Clayoquot Regional District, and First Nations.
Why The Foundation exists to satisfy both donors and community. Donors: People want to be sure their charitable dollars are used wisely, where they can do the most good. Donors may choose to support a favorite cause or they may ask the Foundation to distribute the income from the invested funds. Community: Organizations apply for grants to help fund local projects. The Foundation has established broad and flexible criteria, enabling it to support innovative activities.
22
NOTES
23 THANK YOU Thank you for taking the time to read this report. Alberni Valley Community Foundation Thank you to all of the survey respondents, community conversation participants, photo contest entrants, and other individuals who participated in 3100 Kingsway Ave. the creation of this report by offering their opinions, stories, and pictures. You Port Alberni, BC V9Y 3B1 are deeply appreciated. Thanks also to the Community Foundation of Canada and the Clayoquot Phone: (250)-724-4503 Biosphere Trust for providing a template and information. Email: [email protected]
Website: www.albernifoundation.ca
www.vitalsignscanada.ca | www.communityfoundation.ca