WE LIP Success Story | May 2024
On May 16th 2024, the Windsor Essex Local Immigration Partnership (WE LIP) gathered at the Malden Park Visitor Centre for its Spring Council Meeting, embracing the theme of “Mother-Nature” to commemorate both, Mother’s Day and Earth Day this month. This gathering marked another significant milestone in fostering collaboration and growth within the community.
Here are the Highlights of the Event:
- WE LIP’s Executive Chair, Ronnie Haider from the University of Windsor extended a warm welcome to all attendees and performed a land acknowledgement, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous heritage.
- The meeting commenced with the introduction of the 2024-2025 WE LIP Executive and Project Team. Ronnie Haider and Kelsey Santarossa presented the team, signaling a promising period of leadership for the WE LIP. WE LIP’s Director of Community & Development, Kelsey Santarossa shared WE LIP’s 2024-2025 deliverables and promising practices to the council members.
- Hannah Ruuth and Safa Youness from the Windsor Law Centre for Cities presented on the National Urban Park Hub, highlighting urban conversation efforts and incorporating initiatives that honour and integrate Indigenous knowledge and practices.
- Danielle Stuebing from the Essex Region Conservation Authority highlighted “50 Years of Conservation”, celebrating the significant achievements and ongoing environmental efforts in the region.
- Shelley Dunn from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit outlined the Healthy Families Programs and Services, emphasizing the importance of health initiatives for community well-being and detailing the maternity supports available to expectant and new mothers.
- Sharon Pyke from the May Court of Windsor detailed the contributions and services of the May Court Club Shoppe, highlighting its commitment to environmental sustainability through second-hand shopping and promoting eco-friendly practices.
- Mariam Mahdi and Zainab Hussen from Nisa Homes provided insights into their initiatives supporting vulnerable women and children, highlighting the crucial assistance Nisa Homes offers to the community.
Upcoming Events were highlighted, including:
- Caribbean Health Fair – Date TBD
- Embracing Anti-Racism Approaches in Integration Processes of Immigrants and Refugees in Windsor-Essex on June 5, 2024
- World Refugee Day on June 20, 2024
- Public Safety Day and Festival of Guest Nation on September 15, 2024
- Newcomers Exploring In-Demand Jobs in Windsor-Essex on October 9, 2024
This meeting concluded with announcements of the next WE LIP Council Meeting, scheduled for September 12, 2024, to be held virtually. The Spring Council Meeting not only addressed essential business matters but also reinforced the foundation for continued collaboration and community engagement.
The WE LIP slide deck from the Spring Council Meeting was concurrently made available in French to accommodate members who preferred to review the content in that language.
This event showcased the collective efforts and dedication of the WE LIP members and partners, driving forward the mission of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all community members.
Download a PDF copy of this Success Story here:
