Let’s Talk Poverty

For World Health Day, we sat down with Dr. David Campbell and Dr. Amity Quinn, co-directors of the Health Policy Trails Unit at the University of Calgary to ask them questions like: how do we improve health outcomes for Calgarians living in poverty? How can small interventions, like financial incentives, impact patient and physician behavior? Why is it important for academic researchers and community organizations to work collaboratively? 

In December 2024, VCC hosted 25 Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members for a pipe ceremony to honour their work, strengthen connections, and discuss Indigenous perspectives on building a future where there is enough for all.  Aligning with Indigenous teachings of oral storytelling traditions, this reflection captures the conversations, wisdom, and experiences shared during the gathering. Rather than a conventional summary, this blog follows the flow of dialogue and storytelling, allowing the voices of those present to guide the narrative. The audio recording by Elder Wanda First Rider offers an opportunity to hear these reflections in their intended form; spoken, shared, and lived.   

In this episode of Let’s Talk Poverty, Meaghon Reid connects with Dr. Brian R. Sinclair about the Quality in Canada’s Built Environment research project, including Calgary’s role in the project, and the challenges and opportunities of Calgary’s urban landscape. 

In this episode of Let’s Talk Poverty Meaghon Reid speaks with Kate Koplovich from Calgary Economic Development to discuss and explore how dynamic strategies like Uplook can drive meaningful social and systemic change. In this episode Explore the role of Calgary Economic Development and the Uplook strategy in driving economic development that directly impacts poverty reduction, with a focus on creating opportunities for all Calgarians.  Learn how Uplook incorporates elements of community development and how Calgary Economic Development partners with local organizations to ensure accessibility and inclusivity in economic opportunities.  Understand how Uplook plans to evolve in response to emerging challenges and opportunities, and the importance of balancing formal economic strategies with community-led initiatives to shape Calgary's economic future.  Three key takeaways How the Uplook strategy is committed to fostering inclusive economic growth by addressing poverty through targeted initiatives that ensure equitable access to opportunities, paving the way for a more balanced and resilient economy.  Community-centred collaboration is key to building a more inclusive economy, where partnerships with local organizations make economic opportunities accessible to everyone, especially those who have been marginalized.  The future of Calgary’s economy depends on adaptive strategies that combine formal economic planning with community-led initiatives, ensuring a sustainable and resilient economy shaped by both professional expertise and local leadership.   About Kate Koplovich Born and raised in Calgary, Kate’s purpose and passion is the city of Calgary. In her work with Calgary Economic Development, as the Director of Strategy, she does this by leading Uplook: An Action Plan for Our Economy, Calgary's long-term economic plan, and Calgary Economic Development's internal corporate strategies.   Prior to Calgary Economic Development, she was with Deloitte's Sustainability & Climate Change team. I hold an MSc in Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment from University College London and continue to do economic policy analysis at Calgary Economic Development.   Outside of work she is an avid outdoors(wo)man, has completed two Half Iron (wo)Mans, and is passionate about music and the arts in all its forms. To give back to the community, she volunteers with the Calgary Youth Justice Society's In The Lead program and sits on the Board of Directors for Connecting Environmental Professionals Calgary, a grassroots networking organization for young professionals in the environmental and sustainability sector.  Useful Information/Resources/ Show Notes:  Read more about the 'The Uplook Strategy' from Calgary Economic Development   Learn more about Kate’s book recommendations mentioned in the episode–' American Dirt' by Jeanine Cummins and ‘The Stuff of Thought’ by Brian Steven Pinker.  Subscribe to Let's Talk Poverty on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Share your thoughts. Have an idea for us to explore or a question for us? Send us a message!

In this episode of Let’s Talk Poverty, Meaghon Reid speaks with Alex Sarian, CEO & President of Arts Commons, to explore how the arts can drive systems change, reduce barriers for patrons and artists, and foster civic dialogue.

Making Ends Meet is a work from creator Sage Cannon. This project was part of Sage’s Master of Fine Arts research at the University of Calgary. Sage had the privilege of working with three young adults who opened themselves up to a creative process and told her their lived experiences of poverty. Sage also includes her own experiences of poverty throughout childhood and adulthood in this project, and the work has been a process of community coming together to share stories. These creations teach us about how people react and talk about poverty and ultimately how we don't talk about it enough. It shines a light on people’s vulnerability and storytelling. As one participant said when asked what they wish others knew about poverty, "It's not always extremes, there is always someone closer to you than you think." The reality of people’s day-to-day experiences is in sharp contrast to the possibilities our futures can hold.   Vibrant Communities Calgary worked closely with Sage to bring these stories to you in different forms. Watch the animation and listen to the entire audio play – a collaboration with over 100 voices that are part of the Calgary community. While you listen, consider what actions you can take to build a future that has enough for everyone. 

In this episode of Let’s Talk Poverty, Meaghon Reid connects with Lee Stevens, Policy and Research Specialist at VCC and Nick Falvo, a leading researcher on housing and homelessness to discuss the No Place To Go report, its findings and further actions that need to be taken to end homelessness in Calgary. 

In this episode of Let’s Talk Poverty, Meaghon Reid connects with Leslie Hill, Executive Director of Discovery House, about the realities of support provided to those affected by domestic violence, the need for trauma-informed care and the importance of policy changes to provide long-term support and prevention.  Resources  24-Hour Violence Helpline: If you or someone you know is experiencing intimate partner violence, please call 403-234-7233. This helpline is available 24/7 with supportive professionals on the other end.  Learn more about the incredible work being done at Discovery House. Prosperity Project is a national project highlighting salary disparities in different sectors, including the social sector. 

In this episode of Let's Talk Poverty, Lee Stevens connects with Jill Pable, a professor at Florida State University and creator of the non-profit, Design Resources for Homelessness, to discuss trauma informed design principles ofr homelessness. 

In this episode of Let’s Talk Poverty, Jaclyn Silbernagel connects with Dan Jones, a police-officer turned academic to discuss human-centered and trauma-informed practices in the criminal Justice system, the victim-offender overlap, and how evidence-based practice can reduce crime.  Resources referenced in this episode: Trauma Informed Lawyer podcast I Am More Than My Criminal Record  Targeting Domestic Abuse with Police Data Peace and Good Order In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts  Art of Racing in the Rain