Earlier today, the League of YQL Neighbourhoods had the opportunity to present to the City of Lethbridge’s Safety and Social Standing Policy Committee (SSSPC), joined by several other members of City Council. Our presentation centred around a simple but powerful message: when neighbours are connected, communities thrive—and so does our city.
We shared key findings from our recent Neighbourhood Engagement Project, highlighted how this work supports the City’s Strategic Plan, and invited a deeper partnership between the League and the City of Lethbridge.
What We Shared
Our presentation outlined the current landscape of neighbourhood engagement in Lethbridge, and why it matters now more than ever:
- Connected neighbourhoods are linked to improved safety, health, inclusion, and economic vibrancy
- Currently, only eight neighbourhood associations are active across the city
- Many residents want to be more connected—but don’t always know how
- Low-barrier, inclusive events and spaces—like parks, gardens, and community gatherings—play a key role in building belonging
- The League supports neighbourhood groups through leadership development, resource-sharing, and advocacy
- Our Neighbourhood Celebration Trailer is one of the tools we’re launching to help make gatherings easier and more accessible for all
We emphasized that both formal and informal neighbourhood groups have a valuable role to play in strengthening our communities.
How It Was Received
The presentation was well received by Committee members and other councillors in attendance. Their questions led to meaningful dialogue—particularly about what neighbourhood-level organizing looks like, and how Lethbridge compares to other cities.
We highlighted successful models from Calgary and Edmonton, where strong municipal relationships with community leagues and associations have fostered vibrant neighbourhood networks. These examples inspired the creation of the League of YQL Neighbourhoods and continue to shape our vision for what’s possible in Lethbridge.
While there wasn’t time to fully explore the policy side of this work during the presentation, we followed up with examples from the City’s Municipal Development Plan—many of which align directly with our mission. These include policies that promote neighbourhood connection, resident-led activities, community service delivery, age-friendly planning, and stronger relationships between the City and Neighbourhood Associations.
We also noted that several of Lethbridge’s mature neighbourhoods—such as Agnes Davidson, Glendale/Dieppe, and Lakeview—are reaching a stage of redevelopment, yet lack active neighbourhood associations. These communities are ripe for engagement, and we believe the City can play a key role in supporting resident-led revitalization.
A Positive Outcome
We are excited to share that the Committee unanimously approved a formal letter of support for the League of YQL Neighbourhoods. This is more than a symbolic gesture—it enhances our ability to pursue funding and partnerships, and affirms the City’s recognition of how closely our work aligns with its priorities.
It also represents an important step in strengthening the relationship between the League and the City, as we continue working to build neighbourhoods where people feel they belong.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning.
We’re optimistic about the conversations this will spark and the doors it may open—for formal partnerships, community-driven policies, and expanded support for neighbourhood initiatives across the city.
If you’re a resident who wants to get involved in your neighbourhood, or you’re curious about the League’s work, we encourage you to explore more at yqlneighbourhoods.ca.
Together, we can shape a Lethbridge where people don’t just live next to each other—they live with each other.