“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.”
Maya Angelou
What was this project about?
At its heart, We Belong in Jasper Place began with a big question:
How might we, as a wider community, foster a stronger sense of belonging for everyone who lives, works, and plays in the Jasper Place area?
Since 2023, this community-driven initiative has supported over 20 Projects for Belonging—small, local, and creative efforts that helped bring neighbours together through art, food, music, storytelling, and shared space. From walking groups to youth arts programs to pickleball in the park, each project explored new ways to make our neighbourhoods more connected, welcoming, and inclusive.
We set out to sustain everything that makes this area great while supporting new ideas that help everyone in the Jasper Place District feel a sense of belonging.
Who was involved?
The people of Jasper Place are at the heart: residents, community groups, and grassroots leaders shaped the project and brought it to life through their innovative ideas and tireless efforts.
Each step of the initiative was informed by listening to the community's vision for Jasper Place.
The project was supported by the Stony Plain Road Business Association, which secured limited-time funding from the City of Edmonton to launch this final community-led phase. We Belong in Jasper Place carried forward the work of the City's Jasper Place Revitalization Project, which wrapped up after more than a decade of involvement in the area.
Now, as we near the end of this phase, the City is stepping back, and the funded projects have mostly wrapped up. While the formal initiative is concluding, the spirit of connection and community-building continues.
What did we hear from the community?
Over the two years of the project, we’ve spent a considerable amount of time in conversation with residents, business owners, community groups, and neighbours across Jasper Place.
We asked what belonging really means in Jasper Place, and listened to the answers. People shared stories, hopes, and reflections that helped ground the project in real community wisdom.
These insights shaped the heart of this project, and many of the Projects for Belonging were chosen by the review panel because they reflect these priorities.
Even as the formal initiative winds down, this shared understanding of belonging continues to guide the next steps.
Here’s what we heard belonging means in Jasper Place:
We envision a place where everyone can contribute.
Belonging means having something to offer. Jasper Place residents want a community where everyone has the chance to get involved and make a difference.
We belong in places that are beautiful and safe.
Clean streets and safe public spaces make it easier to feel at home and move through the community with comfort and confidence.
We feel a sense of belonging with those we care about.
Time spent with friends, family, and familiar faces builds strong ties—and communities need spaces that facilitate these connections.
We want spaces that foster a sense of belonging.
Events, gathering places, and lively public areas help people feel part of something bigger. Local businesses also play a crucial role in facilitating connections.
We want to be known and to know.
Knowing your neighbours—and being known in return—was a powerful theme. Trust, familiarity, and everyday recognition all matter.
Our Goals
COMMUNITY BELONGING
Community members have an increased sense of belonging as they relate to the area and each other
COMMUNITY VISION
Community members develop a vision of what it means when all community members feel like they belong
COMMUNITY STRENGTH
The community has an understanding of local strengths and assets that support a sense of belonging for all
Our Principles
We celebrate what already exists in the community and what works
All of our actions champion equity, diversity and inclusion
We embrace and encourage creativity
We prioritize building relationships and trust
Everything we do works towards our goals of strengthening belonging
Stay Updated
Sign up to our newsletter and follow us on social media for updates on the project!
Questions?
We'd love to hear them! Please email hello@tiliaconsulting.ca or director@stonyplainroad.com
