Our mission at CACC is to promote systems change through collaborative projects that address poverty-related issues, encourage civic engagement and advocate for equitable resource allocation. But what does “systems change” entail and why is it important in the grand scheme of things. Systems change can be understood through “The Water of Systems Change” framework proposed by Kramer, Mark R., John Kania, and Peter Senge (June 2018).
Systems change is shifting the conditions that are holding the problem in place – Social Innovation Canada
The researchers describe “the water” as the several constraints surrounding non-profit funded programs, such as government policies, societal norms and goals, market forces, incentives, power imbalances, knowledge gaps, embedded social narratives, etc. Expanding upon these definitions, they developed the “Six Conditions of Systems Change” depicted in the diagram above. The six conditions of systems change are interdependent and play significant roles on maintaining social and environmental problems. For example, during CACC’s food security cohort, participants examine how these conditions may appear differently to each member of the cohort and expand that perspective to the greater community.
Any organization’s ability to create change externally is constrained by its own internal policies, practices, and resources, its relationships and power imbalances, and the tacit assumptions of its board and staff – Kramer, Mark R., John Kania, and Peter Senge (June 2018)
The “degree of visibility” changes based on one’s perspective or position in society. Think about the impact that a shift in the “mental model” of a Member of Parliament could have on public policy concerning food deserts, or how a strained relationship between two major organizations could affect the efficient delivery of services for vulnerable populations. These conditions can be visible internally within an organization, and externally. Therefore, examining our organizational structures is necessary to identify more appropriate approaches to the work we do.
What is The Water of Systems Change?
Read the Social Innovation Generation.
Funding Focus
The City of Calgary’s Family & Community Support Services funding program is accepting applications until April 10th, 2024. The program funds projects focused on prevention, volunteerism and local autonomy. Learn more about the program including application guidelines and previously funded initiatives.
Did you know that the Burns Memorial Fund offers community grants to support the delivery of community-based programs or collaborative initiatives, which contribute to the health, educational or recreational needs of children and youth who are living in low-income situations in Calgary. Applications will be accepted until May 1st, 2024. Read the grant details.
The City of Calgary offers an Arts and Culture microgrant aimed at supporting the activation of culturally vibrant neighborhoods. The grant is offered in 2 tiers: up to $5000 which accepts applications on a rolling basis, and up to $30,000 which accepts applications in March and September. Learn more about this microgrant and application guidelines.
Community Involvement
The “Being Black in Public Survey” provides a dedicated space for Black-identified individuals residing in Canada and the U.S. to process their public space experiences outside of trauma and the labour of public protest. In addition to questions that explore policing issues and other public space challenges, this asset-based survey creates an opportunity for respondents to share their thoughts on what contributes to positive public space experiences. The survey is administered by Jay Pitter Placemaking, an award-winning binational practice located at the nexus of urban planning and social justice, in partnership with academics, philanthropic organizations, mental health professionals, media and urban planning regulators. The survey will accept entries until April 15th, 2024.
Africa Centre is facilitating a free workshop aimed at addressing elder abuse and building resilience. Through the simple art of drawing, participants will have the opportunity to share their lived experiences in a safe and supportive environment. The workshop takes place on April 13th, 2024, between 10am – 3pm at Rm 106, 1715 17 Ave SE, Calgary. Each older adult attendee will receive a food hamper for attending. Spaces are limited, so register soon.
Food security and accessibility to culturally appropriate food are important issues for Calgarians of African descent. The event aims to initiate a dialogue, explore solutions, and foster partnerships to ensure equitable access to culturally diverse and nutritious food options for the Black community in Calgary. The event being held on April 20th, 2024, between 5-8pm at Best Western Hotel, 1316 33ST NE is organized by Wings of Hope for Africa Foundation. Register here soon as space is limited.
How does enough for all apply futures thinking to disrupt pathways into poverty?
In the News
The City of Calgary outlines strategies to address the housing crisis in the “Calgary Housing Strategy: Home is Here.” One of the solutions proposed is the citywide rezoning. “This initiative aims to accelerate the construction of diverse housing options by streamlining permit approvals, which can enhance affordability and stability across communities. Diverse housing types will ensure that all Calgarians may have access to homes they can afford. The proposed zoning changes, which will designate low-density parcels to R-CG or R-G, align with Calgary’s growth trajectory and support sustainable development. This approach, proven successful in other cities, promises reduced approval timelines and increased housing construction” (Ward 8 April Newsletter). The public hearing to discuss this change and seek required council approval will be held on April 22nd, 2024. The public may attend in person or submit written input. Learn more.
Contact Us
Ujima News is an inhouse newsletter designed with our members in mind. Our aim is to make knowledge translation and knowledge sharing a core activity of the collective through free media communication.
