Within our community, numerous non-profit agencies quietly carry out vital work, often going unnoticed. This oversight is concerning given the significant impact these organizations have on various communities in Edmonton. To address this, Resource Connect was created under REACH Edmonton's YEG Reconnect Initiative.

Resource Connect is a biennial gathering that brings together non-profit community organizations and service providers from across Edmonton. The event serves as a platform for these groups to connect, share information, and learn from one another. The primary goal of Resource Connect is to act as a communication hub, facilitating connections and resource sharing among agencies that may otherwise lack the capacity to do so. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, Resource Connect empowers non-profits to enhance their services and broaden their reach within the community.

In 2022, Resource Connect was a remarkable success, bringing together over 91 agencies from various sectors, local politicians, volunteers, and 630 guests to create a vibrant networking environment. This unique event hosted non-profit organizations focusing on addiction, career development, LGBTQ2S+ issues, crime prevention, and more. Many organizations connected and left with valuable resources, eager to return for the next Resource Connect event.

Sarah Mosaico from Just Serve highlighted the importance of these connections: 

"I’ve come to truly value the power of networking. Through Resource Connect, we've been able to identify needs and match them with the right people. For example, when someone is looking for a specific resource, we can often connect them with someone we've met through the program."

Many attendees of Resource Connect 2022 emphasized the need for more in-person events like Resource Connect to facilitate learning and resource sharing among non-profit organizations in Edmonton. Seventy percent expressed a desire for more frequent networking events throughout the year, with 41% specifically hoping for events tailored to agencies to learn about each other, whether virtually or in person.

From our assessment of community needs, non-profit organizations, and partner agencies, we have identified ways to create more opportunities and increase engagement. Understanding why the current non-profit sector lacks connections and resource sharing is crucial. Our "What We Heard" report from Resource Connect 2022 highlighted common themes contributing to this issue, including the absence of a social media presence, insufficient funding, lack of partner relations, limited networking opportunities, and reduced capacity.

Resource Connect has established a foundation for non-profit organizations to connect, but our goal is to extend this communication further. Attendee surveys revealed a need for a centralized, interactive portal or platform to share information and stay updated on available resources in Edmonton. Currently, the YEG Reconnect Forum serves as a medium for non-profit organizations to connect, and an upcoming newsletter through REACH Edmonton, launching this fall, will further support this initiative.

Looking ahead to Resource Connect 2024, we have implemented four workshops to address the needs identified by attendees in 2022. This includes a four-part Grant Writing workshop to equip non-profit members with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful grant applications. Two workshops hosted by Wellness Works Canada will explore the art of practicing balance, managing different roles in the non-profit world, and building resilience in the workplace. 

Kelly Holland, Community Engagement Manager at REACH Edmonton, emphasizes the importance of this:

“There is a need for us non-profit leaders to prioritize our well-being and health. We wear so many different hats, and it can become difficult to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities simultaneously. This workshop will be a great asset for us leaders to reflect and learn strategies to navigate such stressors.”

Finally, with the growing need and desire for non-profit agencies to keep up with technological advances, we are hosting a workshop hosted by Emdash Agency focused on digital fundraising and digital spaces.

As we look forward to Resource Connect 2024, it's clear that the dedication and collaboration of Edmonton's non-profits will continue to shine. By fostering connections, sharing resources, and embracing innovation, these hidden heroes are poised to make an even greater impact on our community. Resource Connect continues to be a beacon for non-profit organizations in Edmonton, fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth within our community.

Resource Connect 2024 is happening on October 16th at the Commonwealth Rec Centre. For more information and to RSVP to attend, click here.

Information provided by REACH Edmonton.