The start of a new year is always an exciting time and an opportunity to reflect on our hopes for the coming 12 months. I’ve been thinking about the power of the everyday acts of care and connection that we can each take to help build a strong community. 

Showing up for one another doesn’t need to mean grand gestures. Sometimes it looks like shopping locally, holding the door for someone, letting a car merge into traffic, or simply offering a wave or a smile. These small moments of recognition and generosity help shape the kind of city we all want to live in.

Across O-day’min, I see this spirit of connection every day. It shows up in volunteers who give their time, in neighbours who look out for one another, and in residents who choose to support local businesses and community spaces. While they seem small, these everyday actions remind us that we are not navigating city life alone and have been proven to have a profound impact on our sense of safety and belonging. 

Staying connected also means knowing what resources are available and feeling welcome to use them. From libraries and recreation centres to transit and skating rinks, these shared spaces are an important part of how we care for one another and stay engaged in city life. If you haven’t been there in a while, consider checking out what’s happening at the Stanley Milner Library, or go for a swim at Commonwealth Rec Centre for a break from the winter weather (and check out the upgraded lockers!). The City Hall skating rink has great events happening too!

These services belong to you. Library cards are free and the City offers great programs like the Access Leisure and Low Income Transit Pass to make sure that recreation, fitness, and cultural activities remain within reach for all individuals and families, supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. If you face barriers to accessing these services, don’t hesitate to reach out to let me know how I can help.

Speaking of staying connected, please be sure to keep in touch with City Hall. My team and I are always eager to learn from your experiences and hear your ideas and concerns. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office, and you can also sign up for my newsletter at annestevenson.ca.

Thank you for continuing to show up for one another and helping make O-day’min a caring and connected place to call home.

Anne Stevenson, City Councillor for Ward O-day’min
Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca
Phone: 780-496-8333