The Town of Okotoks is proud to announce the launch of a Social Needs Assessment. This is important as it will help to enhance the social well-being of our community by identifying key issues and ways to strengthen community connections. This work aims to evaluate our community’s strengths, assets, and evolving social needs, and provide insights that will help shape the Town’s policies and programs for years to come.

We are asking for participation from residents, businesses, social service organizations and other impacted groups that will help us identify priorities and emerging social trends. The information collected through the assessment will become a part of the foundation for the development of social wellness strategies, with actionable plans, aimed to be finalized in early 2025.

Click Follow at the top of the webpage to receive updates and information about upcoming engagement opportunities. Your feedback matters and we are committed to keeping you engaged and informed.

The Community and Social Development team aims to enhance social well-being and quality of life for all Okotokians by addressing key social priorities.

What does social well-being in a community look like?

• Basic needs of all individuals are met;
• There are strong relationships and social networks between and amongst residents and community groups;
• Individuals feel safe and secure;
• Residents feel a sense of belonging; and
• The community uses, maintains and builds on its resources to sustain and improve on quality of life while responding to change.

This project will address social needs through:

• Community engagement to assess social trends
• Development of strategies and actions
• Create a framework to facilitate a clearly defined, consistent and collaborative approach

Please share your thoughts! Your input is essential as we work together to enhance social well-being in our community. Your feedback helps us understand social trends, assess current programs and develop a collaborative strategy to address priorities.

Help us gain knowledge of emerging social needs in Okotoks by hosting or participating in Community Conversations. From October 11-November 1, community members are encouraged to volunteer to host relaxed, semi-structured discussions with family, friends, colleagues, or members of your social circles.

If you are interested in hosting, training is required to help you facilitate your conversation. Learn more and register here!

Thank you for participating; your input will be compiled and considered in the strategies and actions development process. We will use what we learn to develop a strong plan that collaboratively addresses the needs and priorities of the community and promotes sustainable social development. This work will help advance the broader community vision:

The Town of Okotoks is resilient, where people, businesses, ideas and sense of community thrive. Grounded by the Sheep River valley and supported by thoughtful planning and design, a strong local economy and a vibrant civic culture, Okotoks offers exceptional quality of life at every stage of life. Respect for each other and the natural environment makes Okotoks home.