In This Newsletter:
- The Impact of the Institute: A case-study of how our model can lead to projects which tackle big issues
- Stay tuned for a full recap of the “Mapping Our Region of Changemakers” event from February 21
- Thank you, Larry Hogarth
The Impact of the Institute:
A Case-Study Of How Our Model Can Lead To Projects Which Tackle Big Issues
By Rosalyn Morrison, Past Chair, The Institute of Southern Georgian Bay
A group of residents from all walks of life, from across the region, has grown over the last five years and has become a critical mass of thinkers and doers who share a common goal – to ensure that our region develops in an innovative, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable way.
This article showcases how The Institute of Southern Georgian Bay’s www.tisgb.com community-focused model created an innovative solution for addressing climate change; all starting with a series of coffee conversations.
Our Model
The Institute does three things, which over time can produce great impact. Our model involves:
- convening people to identify issues,
- providing a communications and events platform for knowledge-sharing, and
- creating networks that can nurture collaboration and accelerate progress for addressing the large, complex issues we are facing in our communities.
One thing we have learned is that no one person, business, government, non-profit, or philanthropist is going to be able to solve these issues on their own. We must find new ways of working together.
A Solution for Addressing Climate Change – Green Economy Hub Pilot Project
The realization of the new Green Economy Hub Pilot Project https://www.collingwoodclimateaction.com/greeneconomy shows how process can lead to impact. Many people and organizations carved out the time to learn a lot together, and then do things they’d never done before.
What are the key ingredients for success in this process?
- People willing to learn and take action together
- Knowledge-sharing
- Building networks
- Identifying seed funding sources (in this case, philanthropic funding)
- Identifying other potential sources for investment
- Building a multi-sector collaborative model
Read more HERE to learn about the unique role the Institute plays and our Endowment Fund granting.
Mapping our Region of Changemaker’s Event
On Friday, February 21, with nearly 100 attendees, including workshop participants, the YMCA Simcoe Muskoka team, and Georgian College staff and students. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to officially open the newest Georgian College Community Impact Lab and announce plans for The Academy of South Georgian Bay.
Together we, The Institute of Southern Georgian Bay, also began the important work of mapping our region of changemakers and exploring the art of what’s possible—recognizing how our interconnected yet distinct efforts in housing, climate, economic development, health, arts, and beyond shape our collective future.
The conversations sparked new ways of working together, and we can’t wait to see where this momentum leads.
The full event recap, along with the consolidated discussion data, will be shared in an upcoming Institute newsletter- stay tuned!
Thank You, Larry Hogarth
A Heartfelt Thank You to Larry Hogarth
We, the Executive of The Institute, along with our colleagues and participants, want to take a moment to sincerely thank Larry for his outstanding service as Treasurer of The Institute of Southern Georgian Bay.
Since the formation of The Institute in 2015, Larry has played a critical role in shaping and sustaining our work. His financial stewardship, strategic insights, and commitment to community building have ensured the long-term success of our initiatives. More than just a Treasurer, Larry has been a mentor, a problem-solver, and a driving force behind so many of the meaningful connections and collaborations fostered through The Institute.
Larry’s “get up and go” attitude has been a guiding light for our organization. Whether meticulously managing our financial systems, offering wisdom and guidance to new board members, or rolling up his sleeves to help with event setup and nametags, Larry has always led with generosity and dedication. His willingness to continue supporting our events speaks volumes about his deep commitment to the work we do.
Beyond The Institute, Larry’s contributions to our community are immense. He remains an active member of the Optimist Club of Collingwood and Southern Georgian Bay (where he is a Charter Member), serves on the board of the United Church Cemetery, and is a recipient of both the Order of Collingwood and the Companion of Collingwood awards for his decades of service to the region.
Though his time as Treasurer is coming to an end, Larry’s legacy of leadership and service will continue to shape The Institute. His impact is immeasurable, and we are incredibly grateful for his dedication, friendship, and unwavering support.
Thank you, Larry, for everything you have done—and continue to do—to strengthen our community. We look forward to collaborating with you in new ways as we carry this work forward together!