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Community Participation

For many moons I never got involved with local community events I’d stick to my own interests and hang out with my circle of friends.  Then some time ago my neighbour little Debbie suggested I might be interested in joining the Aboriginal Advisory Committee of Hamilton their meetings are held at the City Hall. Being active on social media and the author of Hamilton Native Housing/Urban City Living I thought this might be right up my alley.  Debbie and I talked for awhile about the idea so I decided to attend one of their meetings to see if I have anything to contribute toward aboriginal issues.  The committee members were welcoming and didn't mind me sitting in their discussion. It was a good learning experience.


Jennifer, a guest speaker & Lorraine
This summer I was invited to attend a local multicultural community group again I was apprehensive but I assured Lorraine Brown I would show up and I’m glad I did.  I’ve met people from other housing communities. I’ve talked to participates who live in the suburbs of Hamilton and travel all the way downtown to participate in the program.  Issues and discussions vary from sharing health concerns, life experiences and most important we do it in an open relaxed atmosphere.  No cameras about and no boring outreach workers in this community centre.  Many people will agree Lorraine Brown is a great advocate/counselor/outreach worker she has a lively personality and empathy for others which is why the group has grown immensely.  On Friday morning we had an educational field trip to the Hamilton War Plane Museum over 30 people attended plus Lorraine, her co-worker Jennifer and fellow tenant Linda Biggs. We boarded a chartered HSR bus and off we went to Mt. Hope.  warplane.com
I was in a good mood as we rode up the mountain and I could tell others were looking forward to visiting the museum. Andy is the class clown in the group he makes people laugh with his silly antics. We also have Sybil a dear sweet lady who is 81 years young and still full of life and laughter.
Touring the museum I never realized those old war planes were so huge and bulky.  Sort of reminds me of HSC Ingrid and the UNH’s Director. *joke*   :D
When we arrived back to the community centre we had a social gathering. Some of us helped Lorraine with the light snack trays then the participants sat down to eat.  Soon after I said my goodbyes to everyone and left. I encourage my fellow tenants to join the group there’s always room for more.
The downside was walking home to a dismal KMHC building as I proceeded to my floor I glanced at HOW Lynda Jones in the community room standing near the kitchen counter looking stoic. I couldn’t wait to enter the privacy of my unit to relax and reflect what a good day I had.  :)


Tk

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