Joel Klassen of the Community Civic Engagement Collaborative talks about the Organization at Regent Park.

By Lawrence Rodriguez
Lawrence is youth journalist at Focus Media Arts Centre

On February 28, 2024, Joel Klassen, representing the Community Civic Engagement Collaborative (CCEC), delivered an impactful presentation emphasizing the pivotal role of civic engagement and voting to both University of Toronto students and Regent Park residents. The CCEC, an active coalition comprising local agencies and residents from Regent Park, Moss Park, St. James Town, and Corktown neighbourhoods, is ardently committed to enhancing community involvement through non-partisan organizing efforts.

Speaking within the framework of a course organized by the University of Toronto's Urban Studies department, in collaboration with the FOCUS Media Arts Centre in Regent Park, Klassen provided insight into the multifaceted objectives of the CCEC. At the core of their mission lies the cultivation of civic engagement within these communities, fostering collaboration among agencies and residents, and advocating for informed participation in electoral processes.

Through collaborative endeavours, the CCEC has achieved notable milestones. These accomplishments range from orchestrating inclusive all-candidate meetings to facilitating direct engagement between residents and potential representatives. Furthermore, the CCEC has established robust partnerships with local organizations, empowering community members to actively participate in decision-making processes.

Moreover, the CCEC has played a pivotal role in fostering open dialogues on critical community issues, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued in shaping the future of their neighbourhoods. In a world where civic participation holds significant importance, the work of the CCEC stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals to actively engage in the democratic process and to advocate for positive change within their communities. Through its dedication to amplifying community voices and promoting inclusive decision-making, the CCEC serves as a catalyst for meaningful societal transformation, fostering a culture of active citizenship and collective empowerment.

The CCEC began in 2014 and is most active during elections - federal, provincial and municipal. They take a non-partisan stance.