The local United Way is hearing Voices.
In fact, United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent has officially released Voices of Chatham-Kent: Shaping Our Community’s Future Together – a new report that highlights the priorities, concerns, and ideas shared by nearly 600 local residents.
The report marks a step forward in how the United Way and its partners will invest in and support the Chatham-Kent community, with a renewed focus on equity, prevention, and long-term impact.
“This is more than just a report—it’s a call to action,” Lorraine Goddard, CEO of the local United Way, said in a media release. “People across Chatham-Kent were incredibly clear: they want bold, collaborative solutions that address root causes and create real, lasting change. We’re committed to working alongside our community to make that happen.”
Between January and June 2025, the United Way engaged residents through surveys, focus groups, and conversations across the region. Residents identified their top priorities, which include affordable housing, mental health and addiction support, food security, youth development, and employment and transportation.
Officials said residents want services that are easy to access, better connected, and focused on preventing problems before they grow.
“We believe that lasting change is built from the ground up,” Goddard said. “This report was shaped by the voices of local people – and their voices will continue to guide our next steps.”
Officials are exploring a collective impact approach that brings residents, service providers, funders, and decision-makers together around shared goals.
One promising model under consideration is Cradle to Career – a community-driven strategy with a track record of improving outcomes for children and youth from early childhood through to employment.
The Voices of Chatham-Kent report is available at www.weareunited.com/voicesofchathamkent.
