Social Economy and Sustainability Research Network releases study at UPEI on April 7
Members of the public are invited to the launch of the Social Economy and Sustainability Research Network’s report, “Bridging Public Investment and Social Value: An examination of the supports for the Social Economy on Prince Edward Island,” on Monday, April 7, from 12:30-1:30 p.m., in the UPEI Main Building Faculty Lounge.
Communications specialist Barbara Groome-Wynne, who was commissioned by the Network to do the study, will present her report, including the findings from a public workshop held in November 2007 in Charlottetown, during the event. A new book of policy documents “Pulling Strings,” which has recently been published by Island Studies Press, will also be available for purchase. Refreshments will be available at the launch.
The study documents how federal and provincial governments support social service organizations on Prince Edward Island. The study also inquires into the impact of changes to these supports in recent years. Recommendations are made on how the social sector, policy makers and the public can work together to improve the quality of life for Islanders, especially the most vulnerable members of Island communities.
The Social Economy and Sustainability Research Network, coordinated on PEI by the Institute of Island Studies at the University of Prince Edward Island, commissioned the study, which took place during the summer and fall of 2007. A total of 30 social organizations generously donated their time to be interviewed. The study was funded through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, and supervised by Dr. Irene Novaczek, of the Institute of Island Studies, and Janice Pettit, of the Executive Council Office.
The report will be distributed widely to social organizations and government policy makers. It will also be used by academic researchers who collaborate with UPEI to document the social economy and to strengthen and promote this sector.
The Social Economy and Sustainability Research Network seeks to increase the region’s capacity for a dynamic social economy built on partnerships, knowledge and networks. University researchers and community partners collaborate to meet the research needs of the community and to influence policy at the provincial and federal levels.
For information about this event, please contact the Institute of Island Studies at (902) 566-0377.
