Rewilding South Vancouver: the First Step in the Environmental Education and Stewardship Action Plan

PLAN 425 Submitted: April 17, 2018

Rewilding South Vancouver: The First Step in the Environmental Education and Stewardship Action Plan

CityStudio Group 4: Hulme, Veronica Lau, Anson Ong, Katrina Menezes, Wolvi Tan, Danielle

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3 SUMMARY 4 1.0 INTRODUCTION 5 2.0 MARPOLE-OAKRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTRE 5 2.1 Existing Programming 5 2.2 Resources and Community Interest 5 2.3 Challenges 6 2.4 Opportunities 6 3.0 SUNSET COMMUNITY CENTRE 6 2.1 Existing Programming 6 2.2 Resources and Community Interest 6 2.3 Challenges 7 2.4 Opportunities 7 4.0 KENSINGTON COMMUNITY CENTRE 7 2.1 Existing Programming 7 2.2 Resources and Community Interest 8 2.3 Challenges 8 2.4 Opportunities 8 5.0 KILLARNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE 9 2.1 Existing Programming 9 2.2 Resources and Community Interest 9 2.3 Challenges 9 2.4 Opportunities 9 6.0 CHAMPLAIN HEIGHTS COMMUNITY CENTRE 10 2.1 Existing Programming 10 2.2 Resources and Community Interest 10 2.3 Challenges 10 2.4 Opportunities 10 7.0 ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 11 7.1 Problems Identified 11 7.2 Recommendations 12 8.0 CONCLUSION 13 APPENDIX 15 Interview Questions 15 Raw Data 16 Marpole-Oakridge 16 Sunset 17 Kensington 19 Killarney 20 Champlain Heights 23

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background With growing concern for regional and global environmental issues, many cities and communities are analyzing how they can respond to the effects of climate change and prevent future detrimental effects. As one neighbourhood-level solution, the City of Vancouver and Vancouver Park Board have identified the need for increased public access to environmental education (EE) in the 2014 Environmental Education Stewardship Action Plan.

Purpose In spring 2018, UBC students in the Urban Planning Issues and Concepts (PLAN 425) course partnered with the Vancouver Park Board and City Studio to investigate the current state of environmental education in community centres, and the challenges associated with their implementation. A total of 23 community centres across Vancouver were surveyed through online research and in-person interviews with program coordinators.

Challenges Through the discussions with respective community programmers, there were some overlapping challenges found between each centre that were preventing or hindering the implementation of EE. Below is a list of the most prominent challenges we found across all groups: • A lack of manpower and/or staff hours to implement additional programming for EE. • A lack of general knowledge and public exposure about EE, why it is important, and how it could be implemented. • Uncertainty about funding: an overall need for resources and support to be made available to programmers, through the Vancouver Park Board. • Lack of access to suitable outdoor space and/or transportation to alternate EE locations. • A threat of risk or liability associated with outdoor activities. • A need for more partnerships, whether this be with other organizations in each respective community, or amongst community centre administrators.

Recommendations The following three recommendations represent the areas that PLAN 425 students collectively feel warrant the most attention: 1. Establish a training program or collection of resources that community centres can access to support the integration of EE programming. The training program could take the form of instructive lessons or a guidebook, and should focus on equipping the community centre staff to promote and develop EE related programming specific to their community. 2. Mentioned as a part of the Environmental Education and Stewardship Action Plan, the development of an up to date and comprehensive database of contacts, resources, and organizations should be prioritized. Connections should be facilitated between potential EE experts and programmers in each area. 3. Community centres should focus on forming partnerships with local organizations to deliver EE programming. The information collected in this study (and from any future investigations) should be used to address the identified constraints related to expertise, manpower, financing and available space for each location.

SUMMARY

The focus of the current paper is on the South Region, including Marpole-Oakridge, Sunset, Kensington, Killarney, and Champlain Community Centres, depicted in the map below. The findings are presented and analyzed with the intention of providing useful information for future EE implementation by the Vancouver Park Board.

The findings are compelling in that large-scale generalizations could be made across centres, but there are also unique barriers and opportunities at each facility, making it important to acknowledge traits specific to individual community centres. Marpole-Oakridge reported issues with each of the six items listed above, but additionally stressed a shortage of available staff hours. Sunset has a focus in recreational and academic programming, assigning little value to EE and having to charge the public for third-party programs. Kensington has less of an issue with funding new programs, but more of a problem with transportation and accessibility to low-traffic outdoor areas. Killarney displays more community interest in EE, currently delivering several options for children and adults, but can be hindered by the barriers previously listed. Champlain Heights has a unique issue of reported community interest with a lack of enrollment in EE, suggesting a disconnection between what community members would like to see and what is being offered.

Given the major barriers discussed in this paper, we present the following general recommendations: 1. Provide program coordinators with comprehensive lists of potential partner organizations, experts and instructors with whom they could collaborate to deliver EE. These could include general resources that all centres could use, but would necessarily need to contain regionally specific resources as well. 2. Facilitate opportunities for partnerships to form, such as through showcasing fairs or events. 3. Adapt existing programs to incorporate EE rather than solely developing entirely new programming. Tailor adaptations to the foci and offerings of the centres by working with the program coordinators. 4. Create a task force aimed to research, identify and apply for grants required for EE programs. Encourage centres to involve EE administrators and volunteers. 5. Implement a safety protocol for out trips to reduce risk and liability.

1.0 INTRODUCTION

A study of the current state of EE within the South Region Community Centres was done as part of a larger study of the Vancouver Community Centres for the Vancouver Parks and Recreation Board, in partnership with CityStudio. We collected information using the online database of the programs offered and interviewed the programmers at the centres. We asked about the demographic composition of the communities, the existing offerings, the interest shown by the public, and barriers that may exist.

After conducting the interviews, our group was able to better understand the prevailing challenges that the programmers face as well as the desired direction of these centres. Our findings for each of the centres are presented below, as well as an overarching analysis and summary at the end of this report. This information is primarily intended to aid the Vancouver Park Board in providing region wide initiatives to improve community based EE offered through the various Community Centres.

2.0 MARPOLE-OAKRIDGE COMMUNITY CENTRE 2.1 Existing Programming Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre (Marpole-Oakridge) is located south of 41st Ave. and between Granville St. and Ontario St. The programmer noted that the community is undergoing a demographic shift from older families of Caucasian descent towards younger Asian families who have moved in. Marpole-Oakridge is in a preliminary design phase for construction of a new building which would only serve the Marpole area, while a second facility planned for the Oakridge Centre redevelopment would serve the Oakridge area.

Marpole-Oakridge provides EE on a seasonal basis with a few offerings. Adult programs have an existing partnership with a local community garden. Offerings include “Indoor Seed Starting” and “Native Edibles, Walk and Talk”. City-wide programs for teens, where participants meet at the location of the activity, have been advertised through the Centre, and are carried out by a third party.

2.2 Resources and Community Interest Current programs are limited by space, expertise, and resources. The centre has a strong focus on food- related programming. Incorporating EE aspects such as gardening, canning, and composting for instance, have been a good way to introduce EE into existing cooking programs. In terms of expertise, the programmers have backgrounds in recreation, with few experiences relating to EE. The central location and lack of transportation options also reduces access to suitable green spaces and activities outside of the centre. The programmer expressed the benefit of having a City owned bus or van, but stated that a local neighbourhood house has access to a vehicle and cooperation with them would be more feasible. Cross-programming and advertising could increase participation in both venues.

A lack of public interest, particularly young adults and middle-aged adults, poses a significant barrier. The programmer suggested that social media and online tools could be better utilized to promote EE. There is an interest in EE stemming from a handful of sustainably conscious seniors who are active members at the community centre, but no reported motivation or eagerness in the other age categories. The programmer also identified that acquiring grants and other funding would help provide a wider range of programs.

2.3 Challenges Implementation of EE within Marpole-Oakridge has been difficult due to the lack of public interest, limited funding allocated to new programs, proximity to green space and limited programer experience. There is little demand for EE programs from the public accessing Marpole-Oakridge. Programs that seemed promising were cut during planning because the cost of instructors or materials was prohibitive. Outside green spaces or out trips were not accessible without a bus or van, and public transit limits what is within reach due to travel cost/time. Lastly, staff would benefit from receiving program materials and ideas from experts and outside sources. Increasing knowledge sharing between centres, partners, and the community could help generate more environmentally-focused programs and activities.

2.4 Opportunities Marpole-Oakridge would benefit from increased coordination and support among community centres, the Vancouver Parks Board, and third-party organizations. This could fill knowledge gaps that currently exist among staff. Increasing the knowledge base could allow programmers to tailor activities to the changing demographics. Currently, the list of potential partners outlined by the City includes mainly services that are too costly to be accessible. Recruiting and cooperating with neighborhood houses, volunteer organizations, or activities done with high school or university students, may lower costs for the centre. Increasing programs for school-aged children is a good starting point, and is well received by parents.

Some key opportunities include more programs which take advantage of partnerships and shared resources, better recruitment of volunteers, and a shift in the outreach of programs to become more inclusive in response to changing demographics in the community.

3.0 SUNSET COMMUNITY CENTRE 3.1 Existing Programming Sunset Community Centre (Sunset) is located on Main St., south of 49 Ave. and west of Fraser St. Existing EE programming at Sunset includes a few paid programs and free programs based on partnerships. Sunset has a partnership with Village Vancouver, a grassroots organization that offers a free gardening and composting session at Sunset, engaging residents to use their garden space. Offerings include growing microgreens, making natural soaps/lotions, making aromatherapy beauty spray, and floral arrangements. These programs are mostly offered as one-time events, and are therefore hard to predict registration. These programs all serve adults and seniors. Lastly, through its partnership with Moberly Arts and Cultural Centre, Sunset community residents are welcome to attend a gardening workshop with Lori Snyder. There was a youth garden at Sunset, but it is currently under construction as part of the park upgrade plan.

3.2 Resources and Community Interest There is a fair amount of ability to deliver EE programs. Sunset has partnerships with the Moberly Arts and Cultural Centre, Village Vancouver, and Sunset nursery. There are a handful of resources, as programmers can reuse other programs’ leftover materials. Furthermore, the centre does not lack a list of partners, rather the money to make programs affordable. Whether the programs are offered is dependent on whether the public will cover the program cost or if the centre can acquire grants or alternative funding to subsidize programs.

Currently, there appears to be a lack of interest from the public, aside from seniors who enjoy gardening. Parents tend to place their children in academic-related activities such as reading, math, science, and do not see value in EE. There is, however, interest coming from outside of the community, when promotion of Village Vancouver programs or others catch attention of those from other neighbourhoods.

3.3 Challenges The biggest challenge identified by the programmer is a lack of interest from public for paid EE programs. Funding is required to create more free EE programs for the public. In terms of physical accessibility, Sunset is accessible by transit and car. However, in terms of cultural accessibility, culture might be a barrier, seeing that many families do not place high value in EE, but rather in academic subjects such as math and reading.

3.4 Opportunities Sunset can incorporate EE into other existing programs such as having a unit on Reading about the natural world, a recycling unit in Science, problem solving in Math about the environment. Children who are enrolled in academic-related programs because of parental pressure could access EE through those programs. In this way, EE is fairly easy to implement in children’s education.

Social clubs such as the Leadership Club, and the Youth Council could work on EE-related projects and promotion. Once the community garden is finished along with the park upgrade construction, seniors and families will have access to the garden and can work on gardening-related projects. Gardening could also be incorporated into cooking workshops. Inside the park, Sunset could implement EE-themed park games and interactive plant signs. The Moberly cultural herb garden is a great example to follow for Sunset. Residents could learn about herbs, make tea, and create garden crafts.

Although EE can be easily implemented into existing programs at Sunset, funding for free EE programs can also increase registration. The programmer also mentioned promotion and marketing of EE as a way of increasing interest from outside of community, and using social media tools such as #Meetup.

4.0 KENSIGNTON COMMUNITY CENTRE 4.1 Existing Programming Kensington Community Centre (Kensington) is located south of E 33rd Ave. and east of Knight St. Kensington currently does not offer any EE, although they have previously offered a “Recycling Weaving Materials” course and outdoor adventures for kids including survival skills, geocaching and scavenger hunts. They also offer summer camps which include out-trips to Grouse Mountain or Capilano Suspension Bridge. Excluding the weaving course, these programs are all meant for children and adolescents (ages 6-15), and are successful not solely because of interest, but because parents are likely selecting them for scheduling ease and social opportunity for their children. Moreover, the programs mentioned do not explicitly address EE, but contain aspects of it. The interest in EE has been equally low in adults; only one person enrolled in the weaving course, discouraging the instructor and eliminating the program from future consideration.

4.2 Resources and Community Interest The ability to deliver EE at Kensington is largely dependent on the accessibility to instructors. Every program coordinator will have a different skill set and network of partnerships, and currently the position is filled by a sports and recreation specialist who is less familiar with resources for arts and education. The centre is limited in its offering of EE, and requires partnerships with skilled instructors to introduce new programing. Previously Kensington has had a partnership with Cedar Cottage Food Network and their mobile produce market, but a more comprehensive list of potential contacts in environmental topics and/or sustainability would be highly useful for this centre.

Another barrier to EE has been the lack of public interest. Every program concludes with an evaluation done by the participants and instructor. Feedback from these evaluations provides no basis for the implementation of environmental programming, and common conversation amongst community members, instructors and the program coordinator further reveal a lack of interest on the topic. If there is no expressed demand for a program type to begin with, resources are not allocated to finding an appropriate instructor.

4.3 Challenges As previously mentioned, when it comes to implementing EE, challenges arise with public engagement and finding instructors. Further obstacles exist in terms of location, transportation and demographic. Kensington is located at a busy intersection in a region with lots of hills. Although busses are frequent in the area, most of them stop at least a 5-minute walk from the centre. It can be challenging for people with limited mobility or the elderly to access the centre. In addition, Kensington’s surrounding environment can be difficult to navigate. For example, a walking club for the elderly was previously introduced, but it failed because people had difficulty meeting at the centre, and those who did attend found the walk to be strenuous, loud and ultimately unenjoyable. This issue may have been resolved if the centre had their own shuttle vehicle, operable by several potential staff members. Seniors could be picked up and dropped off at more convenient locations, greatly increasing their chances of participation.

Kensington also serves many Chinese and Vietnamese demographics, particularly seniors, whom the program coordinator noted gravitate towards routine and regularity. The programmer noticed that these groups have been resistant to trying new programs. There are some language barriers, as there is only one young Chinese-speaking employee at the centre, but perhaps of greater impact are the social customs associated with these groups.

4.4 Opportunities Kensington is willing to try new things, but they need the resources in order to do so. EE could be integrated into many of the programs for kids, but finding engaging ways of integration for adults and seniors is more challenging. The program coordinator noted that programs that incorporate local products would likely be well received, suggesting that topics of sustainability could be introduced more indirectly than explicit EE. Perhaps the most useful resource to the staff and program coordinator at this time would be a list of potential contacts and partners for collaborative opportunities. Another helpful resource would be a permanent van or bus for the community centre, as this could facilitate more out trips for both children and seniors.

5.0 KILLARNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE 5.1 Existing Programming Killarney Community Centre (Killarney) is located along E 49th Avenue, adjacent to Killarney Secondary School and Killarney Park. It is near Nanaimo Park, Central Park, and is west of Metrotown Mall, can be accessed by several buses, and is within walking distance of Joyce-Collingwood Skytrain Station. Several existing programs at Killarney would be classified as EE. These include classes that teach how to make natural body care products such as lip balm with plants found in Vancouver, a three-part permaculture workshop, a vermicomposting workshop, as well as geocaching and gardening lessons. These programs are typically aimed to attract seniors and children.

Overall there is varying interest in the existing EE programs offered. While the beeswax and plant salve workshop was a very popular program, with full attendance (about 20 people) and a waitlist, the permaculture workshops had very low attendance. An important factor may have been the cost and knowledge level of the program, as the beeswax program was free and more hands-on, whereas the permaculture workshops were both at a higher level in terms of background knowledge and were not free.

5.2 Resources and Community Interest Killarney is generally well equipped for a variety of sports-related programs, with both a skating rink and swimming pool on site. The community centre is also well funded, with a set amount of money coming from the Vancouver Parks Board. Although there is interest in free EE programs, the interest in EE overall is low, possibly due to limited public exposure to and knowledge of EE. Community members have not widely experienced or benefitted from these types of programs in the past, and have therefore shown little interest in expanding this area.

5.3 Challenges The ability to deliver EE is limited by insufficient staffing and limited space. The centre has high amounts of staff hours going towards the skating and swimming programs. The facility lends itself well to recreational activities, within limited green space and gardens. The program coordinators have a background in sports and recreation programming, and lack the specific knowledge about new opportunities or partnerships that might make new EE programs possible. In addition, the programmers in Killarney are concerned about accessibility and liability when hosting outdoor programming. They are most concerned about the safety of seniors and children when travelling offsite.

5.4 Opportunities To expand EE programming, Killarney could pursue new partnerships with Village Vancouver and Fresh Roots, and continue expanding current partnerships with Lori Snyder (who hosted the popular beeswax program), and the Vancouver Arts Colloquium Society (who hosted the permaculture workshops). Lower prices for EE programs and implementing practical, hands-on workshops may improve registration and turnout. To address the lack of specialist knowledge and staffing issues, Killarney could hire a program coordinator with a specific education or interest in implementing EE programs, and continue relying on other businesses to provide the venue and resources for outdoor and EE programs.

6.0 CHAMPLAIN HEIGHTS COMMUNITY CENTRE 6.1 Existing Programming Champlain Heights Community Centre (Champlain Heights) is located along Champlain Crescent, surrounded by large amount of green space and in close proximity to Everett Crowley Park. Champlain Heights has a variety of EE related programs, such as an Earth Weekend, weaving and foraging with the Everett Crowley Weavers Group, Nature Walks through Everett Crowley Park and others. Many of these programs target the seniors and families present in the community.

6.2 Resources and Community Interest There is a general interest in the community for EE related programs. However, the attendance is lower than expected, making it more difficult for programmers to incorporate this type of programming because the level of interest is only discovered once a program is implemented. The Vancouver Parks Board has stewardship over Everett Crowley Park and as a result, can provide support and resources. The programmer for Champlain Heights has prior experience working at Stanley Park and is familiar with the formal workshops, which can prove valuable for outreach or collaboration between Champlain Heights and Stanley Park.

The two main connections in the Champlain Heights network related to EE are the EartHand Gleaners Society and Lupii Café. The EartHand Gleaners Society is an art-based non-profit that creates community engaged environmental art project opportunities for research, skill development and skill sharing in the Champlain Community. Lupii Café is a community-focused, zero-waste space, dedicated to environmental and social sustainability. It is currently running various community programs, educational programs, community dinners, and other support groups.

6.3 Challenges One recurring challenge that Champlain Heights experiences in trying to develop and deliver environment-related or outdoor programming is funding. At Champlain Heights, instructors who deliver EE programs are often passionate or highly knowledgeable and as a result they charge more. Training of staff and programmers is needed for them to explore potential and precedent cases of successful EE programs and incorporate them into the centre. Additionally, the creation of defined rules and regulations regarding outdoor EE excursions would hopefully decrease risk with larger groups. More staffing would improve safe ratios; however, allocating these resources is difficult and leads to coverage issues. Champlain Heights only sees 2 busy seasons as there is not as much demand or interest in outdoor EE in the colder half of the year.

6.4 Opportunities Currently Champlain Heights is working to develop a community garden in order to advance gardening education for preschoolers and seniors and develop more programs in this area including an eat-what- you-grow program. A program that Champlain Heights is interested in is an Environmental Day Camp. From previous experience, these day camps often cover everything from nature walks, environmental art projects, to natural food programs. Additionally, there are thoughts of developing a forest school program at Champlain Heights which includes education in a forest/outdoor setting where attendees learn about natural habitats and local wildlife.

One area that can help Champlain Heights offer more or better EE programming is to improve the workshops that the Vancouver Parks Board hosts for community centre programmers. These workshops are generally found to be effective; however, more training sessions would be helpful with regards to further environmental collaboration with the Parks Board and implementation of EE at the centre.

7.0 ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Through the interviews conducted with the program coordinators at community centres in our study area, we identify the following common problems, and some potential solutions to the problems.

7.1 Problems Identified Knowledge Gap Community centre staff and program coordinators are typically generalists, with a background in recreation. Coordinators also have little knowledge of potential EE partners, and have little to no experience with successful EE programs. As a result, without public pressure for EE programs, most programs are traditional sports and academic programs.

Partnerships Low turnout for existing EE programming is discouraging to program instructors, who stop offering programs with low turnout. Furthermore, most existing partnerships that are closest to being “environmental education” are food and cooking related.

Budget Environmental education programs were reported to be expensive as most groups offering these programs are independent (i.e. fee for service). Additionally, it is difficult for programmers to invest money in programs with low interest. Subsidized programs may assist with increased attendance but there is often no allowance in current budgets.

Facilities It was discovered that there are very limited natural parks near community centres; often the only nearby green spaces are sports fields. Furthermore, it was reported that the current onsite facilities are limited in terms of facilitating EE.

Public Exposure The program coordinators identified a lack of public exposure to, and interest in, EE programming. Parents frequently place their children in sports or academics (traditional) programming. The cultural backgrounds of residents may act as barrier. It would be strategic to tailor EE to motivate or inspire people who currently do not see value in EE.

Risk/Liability Community centres are directly liable for risk and injury for attendees of outdoor programs. Seniors and children are considered high risk as they are more prone to injury which results in difficulties endorsing these types of programs.

The problems described above are not unrelated or sequential but are rather part of a positive feedback loop which is difficult to break. An explanation of each step and how it contributes to the cycle is explained below: 1. Risk and liability issues with EE related outings means EE programs must be held at the community centre; the program coordinators are missing connections and knowledge about potential partnerships for EE programming as well as funding. 2. Missed connections of potential partnerships results in fewer EE program instructors and partners being recruited to deliver EE programming. 3. Since there is a lack of available program instructors for EE programs, funding is allocated to other initiatives and constructing new facilities for EE is more difficult. 4. The lack of EE facilities and programming means low public turnout for the few EE programs remaining. 5. Low public turnout results in a lack of public exposure to successful and effective EE programs and low public interest in expanding this area, and feeds back into the knowledge gap of program coordinators about potential partnerships and does not incentivize solving the liability issue and others.

7.2 Recommendations Investing in Environmental Leadership Community centre staff and program coordinators require further education and resources regarding EE programs. The Vancouver Parks Board currently hosts workshops to educate programmers; however, these workshops do not often have a large emphasis on EE programming. The Vancouver Parks Board could include additional EE related workshops, such as the use of foraged materials to develop an environmental art gallery and a natural food program, to educate the programmers on the various components of EE. Furthermore, investing in future leaders of EE by training youth leadership groups/clubs to develop projects and initiatives would assist with the development of successful EE programs in the long term.

EE Opportunities Fair It was found that program coordinators have little knowledge of potential EE partners, so developing an education/job/volunteer opportunities fair which showcases new ideas for programs would help expand the network of possible EE partners while closing the apparent knowledge gap. These fairs could comprise of community centres, local businesses or organizations that could provide EE, and instructors which will aid in strengthening local partnerships, with a focus on volunteer based organizations. Information gathered from these types of events could form the basis of a database of EE partners for programmers which will assist in delivering a wider variety of EE programs. The public could also learn more about ways to get involved with EE.

Increase Accessibility to Green Spaces & EE facilities Proximity to natural green spaces was found to be an issue for many of the community centres in the study. The introduction of more accessible natural park space near community centres (e.g. repurposing nearby sports fields) would fix this issue. To account for challenges of risk and liability in outdoor programs, a protocol for out trips that outline safety, risk, and liability, should be created. This would require some form of legal consultation. Since the issue of risk and liability affects trips outside the community centre, this issue could be solved either with the construction of EE facilities such as gardens or greenhouses at community centres (which would reduce our trips and hence liability issues for the centres), or by purchasing a shuttle bus to easily and safely transport people.

Funding, Implementing and Incorporating EE programs Funding of EE programs was a common issue noted among all the community centres, so additional sources of funding are needed. The team recommends creating a task force aimed to research, identify, and apply for grants, which would provide the needed funding to expand EE. A portion of the new funds should be devoted to the upgrade of existing facilities in order to facilitate EE programs. It would also be efficient to modify existing programs to include aspects of EE, instead of creating new offerings. The best point of entry would be to update the popular food related programming to include EE topics such as composting, gardening, buying and using locally sourced and organic food.

8.0 CONCLUSION

In our report, we compiled and analyzed the major trends we identified across the five centres. In general, the most common barriers preventing community centre program coordinators from implementing EE included missing knowledge about the field, lacking partnerships, having restricted funding for such activities, and having limited outdoor space or amenities, low public exposure to EE and fear of risk or liability. Though these issues seemed to be common across the South Region Community Centres, they varied in their degrees of applicability depending on the particular facility. Moreover, each centre displayed unique challenges and opportunities for the implementation of EE. Therefore, solutions should be somewhat tailored to the individual needs of each centre.

Strong partnerships are essential to creating new programming. Connections to sustainable resources and EE experts can not only assist to provide opportunities for EE development, but can also spark ideas for new and creative ways of integrating EE into current systems. All programmers should receive a comprehensive list of potential partners in their immediate area, and networking events such as showcasing fairs should be organized to connect resources, administrators and community members.

Current interest of the public in EE appears to be low, but with greater EE exposure and traction this could change. Improvements in EE advertising may prove to be useful for engaging community members. Most of the staff interviewed were receptive to the concept of EE, and were willing to make programming changes given access to the appropriate resources. It would likely be more successful and economical to adapt existing programming to accommodate EE rather than redeveloping completely new programs. Plans to increase and/or improve EE throughout Vancouver must address the regionally relevant barriers and contributors to the positive feedback loop presented in this report.

APPENDIX Interview Questions Existing Programming:

1. Do you already offer environment-related or outdoor learning programs or events at your community centre? If so, please describe. Refer to criteria if needed. a. What demographics do these programs serve? b. Has registration or attendance been good for environment-related programming or events?

Resources and Community Interest: 2. What ability do you have to deliver environment-related programming? Think in terms of staff time, materials and information, partnerships, etc. 3. Are there any groups or individuals in your network or neighbourhood who can offer EE or outdoor programs? If so, who? 4. What interest exists at your centre for environment-related programs, if any? This information might come from word-of-mouth, feedback forms, board members, community members, etc.

Challenges: 5. Have you experienced any challenges in trying to develop and deliver environment-related or outdoor programming? If so, please describe. Challenges might include funds, staff time, registration, accessibility, lack of partners, etc. 6. Are there accessibility challenges specific to your neighbourhood that might prevent a successful EE or outdoor program? For example, mobility, parking, transit, location, discrimination and personal safety, language, etc.

Opportunities: 7. What existing groups do you work with or programs do you run that you could add an environmental or outdoor element to? How would you do this? For example, taking a park walk with the seniors group more often or using “eco” materials in an art class. 8. What other EE programs or events are you aware of that you think could work at your centre? They might have been at schools, neighbourhood houses, other community centres or other cities, etc. 9. What would most help you to offer more or better EE or outdoor programming?

Raw Data

Interviewee Name(s): Debra Graham Community Centre: Marpole-Oakridge Interview Date and Time: March 23, 2018, 2:10 - 3:00 PM Interviewers: Katrina Ong and Anson Lau

• Area undergoing socio-economic and demographic transitions o Area is mostly older, white households but shifting towards younger Asian families o 70th Avenue divides high and low income households, but most CC users are lower income o Dwellings were predominantly single detached, but now infill is seeing a lot of multi- family dwellings in the centres catchment area • Location of CC is an issue o Centralized, urban/suburban environment and lack of available green space makes EE programming difficult to implement o Outings are more expensive because transportation is required, either renting a bus or using public transit • Transportation to and from Marpole is an issue for people who live farther away o Unreliable bus service due to congestion along Oak St, an arterial roadway connecting Vancouver to Richmond; Bus 17 o Would benefit from access to a vehicle, but the community centre is prioritizing a partnership with a nearby neighbourhood house • Shift in programming reflects shift in demographics o Existing programs focus on food, cooking, health related “New Age” programs (e.g. yoga) o Some outdoors programming (camping, nature walks) delivered through City o Community garden has workshops on home gardening, food preservation, box gardening for apartments • EE programming limited by facility o For example the kitchen has limited capacity (~14 people) and no dishwasher; aim is to have a commercial grade kitchen in new facility o Oldest building of all other community centres o No licensed space for after-school care of kids older than 6 o No dedicated shuttle at Marpole limits external trips due to city safety guidelines o Would like to offer soup kitchen with seasonal vegetables once the facility can accommodate feeding that number of people • New community centre in design phase, to be placed on south end of park o Will have a brand new kitchen with about 20 person capacity o To service only Marpole instead of Marpole and Oakridge communities o Budget has yet to be approved by the City, estimated 2-3 years until construction begins. Parks Board has committed to half • Local middle-aged to seniors (40-60 yrs) are the target audience for programs, and are a very active and engaged age group o Push for environmental education from this group o Difficulty reaching younger audiences

o Youth programming is currently offered through city wide initiatives where multiple community centres advertise a program at a third party location • Registration for EE programming restricted by poor dissemination of info o ‘Cannibalisation’ of Marpole-Oakridge program attendees from Hillcrest, which is better off financially o Lack of online advertising; could improve with programmers who are more experienced with technology and social media • Existing partnerships o Advertising for a local garden in exchange for EE programs o St. Augustine Church has a senior outreach program (food service) o List of partners that was compiled by the city/park board were not feasible due to the cost of private partners • Arts programs try to use eco-friendly materials and recycled materials o Bonus of being cheaper • Lack of funding is an issue o Prevents hiring specialists who have expertise in providing EE due to high wages needed o Marpole-Oakridge also subsidizes lower income patrons through LAC discount (50%), but extends to nearly every program any time of the year (as opposed to once a year) o Funding contributed by the Association is approximately $10,000/year for LAC • Needs help to find resources to implement EE, notably financial support and potential partners o Vancouver Public Library and Parks Canada collaborated to provide camping lessons, Debra said she didn’t even hear about it until it happened o Identifying grants they could apply to would be helpful o Suggested a program fair of sorts, where businesses and organizations would come together and provide a showcase of potential programs they could offer to community centres across Vancouver ! Collaborating between community centres as a sort of ‘collective bargaining’ on an organizational level would make finding suitable programs easier • Staff organization: o Antoinette - youth worker o Debra - full time programmer: regular events, adult sports, children’s programs o Ashley - part time programmer: special events, senior events, fitness o Tony - on-site recreation supervisor

Interviewee Name(s): Joe Wong Community Centre: Sunset Interview Date and Time: March 15, 2018, 4:30-5:30 Interviewers: Danielle Tan and Veronica Hulme

Existing Programming:

• Within the last 3 years there have been the following EE opportunities: o Free Youth and Seniors’ Gardening Program, jointly offered with Moberly Elementary School (5 minute drive away). o Seasonal floral arranging in collaboration with Sunset Nursery. o Microgreens and natural skin care workshops offered with Village Vancouver.

• Few EE offerings currently, partly due to construction on outside area. Lots of green space will eventually be accessible, but is currently greatly reduced. • Many of the programs Sunset offers are one-time events, attracting a very wide range of individuals from all over Vancouver, not just the local community.

Resources and Community Interest:

• There are fee for service programs to pay outside instructors, and free programs funded by grants. Most EE opportunities would require an outside instructor, but it is believed that most community members would not pay for an EE service. • EE interest mostly shown by seniors in programs such as gardening. • EE not highly valued at this facility, but more so recreational activities. Would be relatively easy to find instructors in any area, but it is very hard to convince people to pay for EE services. • Partnerships are personally dictated by the current program coordinator, and it is their responsibility to recruit instructors. Sunset has a solid preliminary network of connections, but as there is little demand to find EE instructors, efforts have not been made in this area. • Very accessible via transit, and supplied with green spaces both on-site and at partnership locations.

Challenges:

• Low communication with higher levels of administration; monthly meetings with the South District program coordinators and 2-4 annual citywide meetings. There are also surveys with the staff and public, but this doesn’t appear to be enough communication to make as many changes as perhaps are desired. • Advertising seems to make a large difference in enrollment; when advertising is done through partners it is typically very successful, and people will travel from around Vancouver for special events. But enrollment numbers can be quite low when the only promotion is done by Sunset.

Opportunities:

• The Sunset Community Board is generally receptive to new ideas, and financially supportive of new projects but only if potential enrollment is believed to be relatively high. • Any changes to the structure of the outdoor (or indoor) environment must be approved by the Parks Board, but there are some ideas about incorporating EE into the actual structure of the facility. For example, one thought is to construct brief but informative tablets outdoors about the natural flora and fauna in the area. • The most successful EE programs are those that are done in conjunction with other groups, such as gardening with Moberly Elementary. This reduces costs and attracts a wider range of people. • Would be more feasible to integrate EE into existing programming rather than to create entirely new programs. This would likely be easier to do in children’s courses rather than those for adults. For example, many of the reading, math, science and leadership afterschool care programs, as could dedicate some portion of the curriculum to EE.

Interviewee Name(s): Maggie Vasicek Community Centre: Kensington Interview Date and Time: March 15, 2018, 3:00-4:00 Interviewers: Veronica Hulme and Katrina Ong

Existing Programming:

• Not currently offering anything that could be considered EE. Program coordinator wouldn’t know what new EE programming would look like, meaning Kensington could use creative ideas for how to integrate EE. • Some seasonal activities for children related to environmental topics, but not explicitly addressing them: o Outdoor adventures (outdoor survival skills, geocashing and scavenger hunts). o Spring and summer camps (with a focus on out trips to Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge). • Limited options for adults; only two items have ever been run, namely a Recycling Weaving Materials course (only one participant) and seniors’ walking club. Both of these programs failed due to low enrollment. • Resources for children could be more successful because they dual as afterschool care. This implies children don’t necessarily select “environmental” activities out of interest (nor are the activities explicitly environmental), but rather parents select these activities for reasons like scheduling ease and physical activity for their children.

Resources and Community Interest:

• The most limited resource for Kensington is access to instructors capable of teaching environmental content. • Partnerships formed are dependent on the particular connections and interests of the program coordinator and community centre members. The program coordinator specializes in recreation and sports, having very few connections to the educational sector. • The only current partnership is with the Cedar College Food Network, who showcase a mobile produce market. • Moreover, there is very little community interest, as indicated by program evaluation forms, instructor feedback and common conversations within the centre. With low community interest in EE, new programs fail, and efforts put into finding EE resources become futile (eg. instructors, EE topics, supplies, transportation, etc.).

Challenges:

• Transportation o Bus stops are typically a 5-minute walk from the centre (difficult for low-mobility individuals and seniors). • Location o Busy intersection in an area with many hills. • Demographic o High population of Chinese and Vietnamese seniors (language and culture barriers). • Resources

o Available instructors. o No on-site van or bus for the community centre. o Funding is typically not an issue for new programs so long as there is an expressed interest from community members. Funding is approved by the Kensington Community Association, composed of volunteers and community members. o Most advertisement for new programs is done through word-of-mouth; improved outreach methods may increase enrollment.

Opportunities:

• Kensington could use more information on potential environmental partnerships and instructors. • The implementation of an on-site shuttle van or bus would likely be beneficial for walking clubs and children’s camps, and potentially other activities. Finding a qualified driver would not be difficult if a vehicle were provided. Drivers could also be shared amongst community centres. • There is a willingness to try new courses with the appropriate resources. • Administrative interest to implement something in support of local products; this could be stand-alone or integrated into existing activities. The program coordinator thinks that a focus on local products would be well-received by community members.

Interviewee Name(s): Sophie Noel and Michelle Stebnicki Community Centre: Killarney Interview Date and Time: March 20, 2018, 2:00-3:00 Interviewers: Anson Lau and Wolvi Menezes

Existing Programming:

“Art of Making Lotions Potions and Scrubs with Iona” (159568): o Teaches people how to create natural body care & household products “Making Beeswax Salves and Lip Balms” (145303): o Teaches people how to make beeswax lip balm or healing salve with infused plant medicines, and which plants in Vancouver can be harvested o Taught by Lori Snyder o High attendance (~20 people with a waitlist) but may be because it was free “Permaculture Workshops: Food as Medicine” (144274):

20 o Teaches the use of permaculture (defined as “a system of agricultural and social design principles centered around simulating or directly utilizing the patterns and features observed in natural ecosystems”) o Organized by the Vancouver Arts Colloquium Society (myVACS.org) o Generally low attendance, might be too high level for target audience “Permaculture Workshops: Permaculture As Philosophy” (144273) o Teaches how permaculture can be used in everyday life o Organized by the Vancouver Arts Colloquium Society (myVACS.org) o Generally low attendance, might be too high level for target audience

“Vermicomposting - Worm Bins 101” (144263) o Teaches how to use worms to create a compost bin, as well as worm anatomy and common problems “Ways to Reduce Your Family's Exposure to Toxins” (159572) o Teaches people about how to improve their health by reducing exposure to toxins

Geocaching and gardening programs also exist

The primary target demographic for programs is towards children and seniors

Resources and Community Interest:

1. What ability do you have to deliver environment-related programming? Think in terms of staff time, materials and information, partnerships, etc.

Programmers are mostly generalists in their field, focussing mostly on providing programs that people are familiar with and have shown interest in (e.g. swimming lessons)

Resources and materials sufficient: Set sum of money provided by Parks Board

2. Are there any groups or individuals in your network or neighbourhood who can offer EE or outdoor programs? If so, who?

Lori Snyder teaches some EE programs, as mentioned above

Village Vancouver and Fresh Roots were some other organizations mentioned

Neighborhood Matching Fund provided funding, along with technical support from BCIT for the “Bog Project” but ultimately did not complete due to bureaucratic red tape o Stage 1 was to create wood panels about bog species and biodiversity that people could create charcoal rubbings of o Stage 2 was to renaturalize the dog park but was never completed

Special events such as Art Canivale, Sustenance Festival showcase environmental art and Indigenous art

Fresh Roots offers a gardening workshop

3. What interest exists at your centre for environment-related programs, if any? This information might come from word-of-mouth, feedback forms, board members, community members, etc.

Information distribution varies from centre to centre

Pool and rink get better advertising as they are managed by the City o No external ads for programs unless sponsored o Program guides typically sponsored by Killarney Community Society Interest mostly in food-based programming o People like the existing programs, not much knowledge base of EE programs

Challenges:

1. Have you experienced any challenges in trying to develop and deliver environment-related or outdoor programming? If so, please describe. Challenges might include funds, staff time, registration, accessibility, lack of partners, etc.

Accessibility (see question 2 below)

Lack of Specialist Knowledge o As generalists, focus is on sports programs and programs that worked in the past o Reliance on good partnerships for special programs o EE programs are forward thinking, but lack the base and public knowledge to be successful (currently) Insufficient Staff Time o Limited time to develop new ideas for programs o Killarney has both a rink and pool, so programmers are busy with accommodating events for the rink and pool Union Environment o Set salary does not encourage spending extra OT hours to innovate Limited space and resources for ‘special’ activities o Reliance on third-party businesses to provide the facilities for events o Example (not at Killarney) – registration online on Centre’s website, but program was held at a rowing business (need to clarify this point with Sophie) i.e. outsourcing programs to businesses that have facilities and resources for specialized programs

2. Are EE or outdoor program? For example, mobility, parking, transit, location, discrimination and personal safety, language, etc. Issues relating to accessibility are more related to risk management (liability), given the target audiences of children and seniors o Getting to a location is not a problem, Killarney has a shuttle bus they can use o Outdoor events beyond the Centre increase risk of harm

Language is not a challenge, plenty of non-English programs available (e.g. Mandarin), but no translation services exist at the Centre there accessibility challenges specific to your neighbourhood that might prevent a successful

Opportunities:

1. What existing groups do you work with or programs do you run that you could add an environmental or outdoor element to? How would you do this? For example, taking a park walk with the seniors group more often or using “eco” materials in an art class.

Lori Snyder does EE programs with an Indigenous focus

Vancouver Arts Colloquium Society does permaculture programs

Village Vancouver and Fresh Roots

2. What other EE programs or events are you aware of that you think could work at your centre? They might have been at schools, neighbourhood houses, other community centres or other cities, etc.

3. What would most help you to offer more or better EE or outdoor programming?

Outsourcing logistics to an organization that is specialized in EE to minimize work and time needed from CC to get the event going o Main issue is the lack of specialization and time that Killarney doesn’t have

Subsidies to pique interest for under-enrolled EE programs o Program instructors dislike low turnouts and don’t like running programs with low turnout

Interviewee Name(s): Kari Ward Community Centre: Champlain Heights Interview Date and Time: March 16, 2018, 3:15-4:15 Interviewers: Wolvi Menezes and Danielle Tan

Existing Programming: 1. Do you already offer environment-related or outdoor learning programs or events at your community center? If so, please describe. Refer to criteria if needed. a. What demographics do these programs serve? b. Has registration or attendance been good for environment-related programming or events?

• Diverse community • Large population of seniors as there are many senior homes nearby • Large number of co-ops in the surrounding area and as a result there are many families and children • Earth Week • Board of Directors allocated funds to host an Earth Day/Weekend • Meet with the community, in order to see what they want and learn what makes it successful • Clean-up of Everett Crowley Park; • Initiative of the youth council • Youth, including Grade 7 students in the Killarney area pick-up and dispose of litter in the park • George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary (50+) • Hosted by a local community member • Interest diminished over time and eventually the leader moved on • Nature walk • The leader was older volunteer, someone who is interested • Board members who are interested had 40 kids plant shrubs • NW wildlife presentation

Resources and Community Interest 1. What ability do you have to deliver environment-related programming? Think in terms of staff time, materials and information, partnerships, etc.

• Kari has prior experience working at Stanley Park and has experience with their formal workshops and contacts there • The board has stewardship over the park and can provide support and resources • Partnerships • EartHand Gleaners Society • Lupii Café • SFU (developed an outdoor classroom in conjunction with Champlain Heights Community Centre)

2. Are there any groups or individuals in your network or neighborhood who can offer EE or outdoor programs? If so, who?

• EartHand Gleaners Society is an art-based non-profit that creates community engaged environmental art project opportunities for research, skill development and skill sharing based in the Champlain Community. • Rebecca Graham artistic director for EartHand Gleaners with a background in agriculture and environmental ethics • Lupii Café is a community focused, zero-waste space, dedicated to environmental and social sustainability; currently running various community programs, education, community dinners, and other support groups. • Operated by Lisa (SFU professor)

3. What interest exists at your center for environment-related programs, if any? This information might come from word-of-mouth, feedback forms, board members, community members, etc.

• There is a general interest in the community for these types of programs but not as much attendance; expected more attendees • You only get an idea of the level of interest once you put a program in motion • There is a program proposal form for any requests or suggestions for programs in general

Challenges 1. Have you experienced any challenges in trying to develop and deliver environment-related or outdoor programming? If so, please describe. Challenges might include funds, staff time, registration, accessibility, lack of partners, etc.

• Cost and funding is a large barrier • Normally for environmental education programs, the instructors are often passionate or educated and as a result they cost more (fee for service) • More funding because this would mean that more environmental education related programs can be offered for free which will improve attendance rates • Mobility and awareness of seniors and youth with regards to larger groups and safe ratios • Safety increases and risk decreases with more staff members; however, allocating these resources is difficult and leads to coverage issues • Training of staff and programmers is needed for them to be able to make educated decisions regarding environmental education programs • Cultures, language may be an issue

2. Are there accessibility challenges specific to your neighborhood that might prevent a successful EE or outdoor program? For example, mobility, parking, transit, location, discrimination and personal safety, language, etc.

• Mobility and awareness of seniors and youth with regards to larger groups and safe ratios; relating mainly to personal safety • Weather has an impact on outdoor programs • Really only 2 busy seasons, not as much demand or interest in the colder half of the year • Some rules to improve safety have not been developed

Opportunities 1. What existing groups do you work with or programs do you run that you could add an environmental or outdoor element to? How would you do this? For example, taking a park walk with the seniors group more often or using “eco” materials in an art class.

• Develop a community garden for an eat what you grow program • This can be great for preschool students to experience gardening and new foods • Can be used as a focal point for gardening education

2. What other EE programs or events are you aware of that you think could work at your center? They might have been at schools, neighborhood houses, other community centers or other cities, etc.

• Environmental Day Camp • Includes a bird house, environmental art project, and a natural food component; includes a combination of the components of current programs at Champlain Heights as well as programs that would be included in the future. • Hosted by a woman named Krystal • Forest School • Popular trend on north shore • Includes education in a forest/outdoor setting where attendees learn about natural habitats and local animals

3. What would most help you to offer more or better EE or outdoor programming?

• Vancouver parks board hosts workshops that are held 3 times a year for programmers • They are found to be effective; however, more training sessions would be helpful with regards to further environmental collaboration with the parks board and more professional involvement and staffing • More funding because this would mean that more environmental education related programs can be offered for free which will improve attendance rates