From monitoring migratory bird populations through the Rocky Point Bird Observatory to funding for counselling at the Pacific Centre Family Services Association, the results of Victoria’s Vital Signs Survey are hard at work throughout the West Shore.
Victoria’s Vital Signs is for communities across the capital region, from the core, to the West Shore, Peninsula, and southern Gulf Islands.
The 17th annual survey from the Victoria Foundation is open now, with residents from Sooke to Sidney encouraged to weigh in about what works in their community, and what needs a little help.
In addition to building on last year’s theme of equity and inclusion, this year’s questions will dig a little deeper into the idea of community, and what that means to respondents.
The survey results will then be combined with local statistics to create the annual Victoria’s Vital Signs report, exploring everything from transportation and housing to the arts and environment. Beyond measuring the vitality of our region, by assigning grades to critical issue areas, it’s a chance to identify significant trends, areas of concern and areas enjoying success.
Your input matters
Why is it important for local residents to share their feedback?
Compiled in part from the survey, along with current research, the Victoria’s Vital Signs report is used by local governments and donors as they consider how to direct resources to areas of the greatest need.
Here on the West Shore, concern for the future of salmon stocks, for example, has been addressed through initiatives like the Goldstream Volunteer Salmonid Enhancement Association’s salmonid enhancement and education efforts.
Other grants work to address health and wellness, education, reconciliation, transportation and numerous other areas of concern.
“While our Greater Victoria neighbourhoods enjoy many similarities, we also know that some issues – and their solutions – occur at a more localized level. The more comprehensive the participation is in our Vital Signs survey, the better positioned we and our donors will be to direct support for our community, where it’s most needed,” says Victoria Foundation CEO Sandra Richardson.
It’s quick + easy: Take the survey today!
Launched last week, the 17th annual Victoria’s Vital Signs Survey continues through July 4 and takes just a few minutes to complete.
Visit victoriafoundation.ca to learn more or click here to take the survey directly.
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Established in 1936, the Victoria Foundation is Canada’s second oldest community foundation and the sixth largest of nearly 200 nation-wide. The Victoria Foundation manages charitable gifts from donors whose generosity allows them to create permanent, income-earning funds.
