Social Needs Assessment & Strategy Approved

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! The input we received from residents, businesses, social service organizations and other impacted groups has helped us identify priorities and emerging social trends. Your valuable information collected through the assessment engagement process laid the foundation for the development of the Social Needs Assessment & Strategy.

Okotoks Town Council has approved the Social Needs Assessment & Strategy as a planning document, marking a major milestone in shaping a more inclusive, affordable and connected community. This community-driven plan outlines strategic priorities and actions designed to enhance social well-being and support all residents as Okotoks continues to change and grow.

Click the buttons below to review the news release and the strategy document.

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Social Assessment & Strategy Summary & Next Steps

Developed over nine months, the strategy is grounded in extensive community engagement, including input from over 1,300 residents and partnering organizations. Engagement activities included focus groups, workshops, community conversations, surveys and outreach events, ensuring that voices from across the community were heard—particularly youth, seniors, newcomers and vulnerable populations.

Key Social Priorities Identified:

  • Community Affordability
  • Accessibility and Inclusive Services
  • Strengthening Community Connections
  • Community Awareness and Engagement
  • Growing in a Way that Supports Everyone

Highlights from Community Engagement:

  • Over 1,300 individuals engaged.
  • More than 400 youth voices contributed through surveys, focus groups and workshops.
  • Over 200 participants took part in community conversations.
  • Strong support for priorities such as affordability (85%), accessibility (86%), connection (90%), engagement (95%) and inclusive growth (88%).

Next Steps: The approval of the strategy paves the way for a phased approach to implementation:

  • Short-term actions will focus on increased access to information, building community capacity and exploring quick wins for affordability and inclusivity and the development of a social policy framework.
  • Medium and long-term strategies will involve cross-sector collaboration, alignment with existing municipal plans and supporting community-driven solutions.