Regent Park SDP Planning Committee Closes 2025 with Focus on Funding, Evaluation, and more

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The Planning Committee of the Regent Park Social Development Plan held its final meeting of 2025 in December, concluding a year focused on strengthening community-led social infrastructure alongside the ongoing physical redevelopment of Regent Park. A central item on the agenda was the urgent need to secure sustainable funding for the Regent Park Social Development Plan as it moves into 2026. Committee members emphasized that social development funding is critical to revitalizing the community’s people, services, and governance structures—complementing the large-scale housing and infrastructure changes that have reshaped the neighbourhood over the past decade. Without stable funding, the long-term social gains achieved through the SDP risk being undermined. The discussion referenced demonstrated outcomes associated with the Regent Park Social Development Plan, including findings outlined in the Federation of South Toronto Residents Associations White Paper. These outcomes include zero gun-related deaths in 2023, increased youth employment and leadership opportunities, stronger coordination among community services, and resident-led initiatives supporting employment pathways, housing stability, wellness programs, and community-based Social cohesion and inclusion. Committee members noted that these results demonstrate the value of Social Development Plans as proven tools for improving community safety, well-being, and resilience—particularly for Black, Indigenous, and racialized residents. The committee also reviewed the Canada Summer Jobs program and explored how member agencies can support the work of the SDP through student placements. Members agreed that improved coordination across organizations could strengthen capacity and enhance the plan’s overall impact. As a result, the committee decided to send a formal letter to the executive leadership of SDP member organizations, encouraging participation and collaboration through Canada Summer Jobs placements. Evaluation was another key focus of the meeting. Committee members discussed current evaluation practices, lessons learned, and opportunities to strengthen how outcomes are measured across SDP initiatives. Looking ahead to 2026, the committee discussed marketing and outreach strategies aimed at recruiting new members and expanding engagement across Regent Park. Proposed approaches focused on increasing visibility, strengthening communications, and ensuring broader community representation within the SDP. The meeting concluded with members marking the holiday break and preparing to reconvene in 2026, with a continued focus on advancing resident-led social development, strengthening accountability, and securing the resources needed to sustain Regent Park’s social revitalization.

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