here - Membertou

MEMBERTOU MOVES!
Membertou’s Physical Activity Strategy
Prepared by Krista Devoe
[email protected]
October 2015 - Final
Table of Contents
Message from the Chief
Page 2
Introduction
Page 3
Thrive! Nova Scotia
Page 6
Vision Statements, Mission Statements
Page 7
Definitions
Page 8
Physical Activity & Sedentary Behavior
Page 9
Guidelines
Page 12
Community Profile
Page 13
Community Population & Characteristics
Page 16
Existing Facilities & Opportunities
Page 18
Public Consultation
Page 20
Goals & Action Items
Page 24
Program Goals & Actions
Page 24
Built Environment Goals & Actions
Page 25
Public Education Goals & Actions
Page 27
Capacity Building Goals & Actions
Page 28
Implementation & Evaluation
Page 31
Appendices
Page 32
1
Community Map
Page 32
Departmental Interviews
Page 33
Needs-Assessment Survey (Copy)
Page 34
Survey Results (Attached)
Page 34
Thrive! A Plan for a Healthy Nova Scotia
Page 34
Message from the Chief
I am a firm believer that a healthy community is a strong and prosperous community, and in order for
the community to be healthy, we as individual community members must be the ones to take the steps
towards healthy living.
Membertou has a long and proud history of physical activity and it continues to grow today, just as our
bodies and minds and our community also continue to grow.
In Membertou, community members are visibly leading by example whether they play organized team
sports, participate at the community boxing gym and rec centre, or something as simple as walking their
dogs on a daily basis.
Every step taken through physical activity takes us one step closer to a healthier and livelier community.
Welalin,
Chief Terrance Paul
2
Introduction
In September, 2011, a meeting was held between key stakeholders with Membertou First Nation – Dan
Christmas, the Senior Advisor and Mary Beth Doucette, the Manager of Quality Assurance and ISO
Compliance, Wayne McKay, the Regional Physical Activity Coordinator (Cape Breton) from the Province
of Nova Scotia and Colleen Clare, the Municipal Physical Activity Leadership (MPAL) Coordinator from
the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM). The main goal of the meeting was to discuss the MPAL
program that exists in the CBRM. During the discussions, the physical size of the CBRM had concerned
Dan – the boundaries of the municipality were so broad, Membertou could be forgotten. That began
another conversation between Dan and Wayne about developing a separate Mi’kmaw physical activity
leadership program.
A letter was submitted by Dan to Mike Arthur, Manager of Physical Activity with the Province of Nova
Scotia, highlighting the conversations that were had between Dan and Wayne, as well as indicating the
interest and commitment to bringing the MPAL program to Membertou.
On November 2nd and 3rd, a groundbreaking conference was held in the Membertou First Nation
between Physical Activity specialists and First Nations Representatives, appropriately named Bridging
the Gap. The conference highlighted the chronic health issues and barriers to activity that are faced by
First Nations, and created partnerships with outside organizations with similar goals. This was a key
opportunity for movement in developing a Mi’kmaw Physical Activity Leadership program for
Membertou.
The extension of the MPAL Program into First Nations Communities was identified as a priority in the
Province’s Thrive! Strategy, which was released in the summer of 2012.
Direction #4: Plan and Build Healthier Communities
The way our cities, towns, and communities are designed affects our health. Things like
good public transit, well-maintained parks, community gardens, farmers markets, and
safe, efficient walking and cycling networks make it easier for people of all ages to be
healthier. Thrive! includes actions to develop a provincial active transportation policy
and plan, work with municipalities on land use policy to support physical activity and
healthy eating, expand physical activity leadership programs into all municipalities and
Mi’kmaq communities, and increase access to facilities and places to be active.1
In September, 2012, Wayne had advised that the MPAL Program was officially extended into First
Nations, and from then, things moved rather quickly with a meeting with Mike Arthur, the Executive
Committee in Membertou and the Chief and Council. It was then decided that Membertou would take
part in the program, with Trevor Bernard, Executive Director of the Membertou First Nation, taking the
lead to develop a Memorandum of Understanding with the Province of Nova Scotia in regards to the
MPAL Program.
1
Thrive! A Plan for a Healthier Nova Scotia, strategy, June 2012
3
On February 8th, 2013, Membertou became the first Mi’kmaw community to sign onto the Mi’kmaw
Physical Activity Leadership Program, marked by a skating event held at a well-known outdoor rink in
Membertou, Buster’s Pond. At this event, Chief Terry Paul and Premier Darrell Dexter signed the
Memorandum of Understanding for the program. This was a giant leap for physical activity in
Membertou.
“We want to have long, healthy and active lives, but today there are too many people who are not
physically active and it's leading to health issues such as type 2 diabetes. I believe this agreement will
help us reverse that trend and help make Membertou an even better place to live.”Membertou Chief
Terrance Paul
In April, 2013, a Mi’kmaw Physical Activity Leadership Coordinator was put into place, tasked to create a
holistic, community-wide physical activity strategy. The strategy will aim to highlight goals and action
plans that will ensure sustainable physical activity within the Community of Membertou.
This strategy will aim to align with current provincial strategies aimed at increasing physical activity
levels. This strategy will aim to incorporate all levels of community government, as well as community
voices, to ensure the strategy is relevant, current, and created by Membertou, for Membertou.
4
5
Thrive! Nova Scotia
In 2012, in response to Nova Scotia facing epidemic levels of obesity, inactivity and unhealthy eating, the
government of Nova Scotia published Thrive! A Plan for a Healthier Nova Scotia2. The plan is built on a
foundation of social policy. It outlines four priority areas to create environments to make it easier to eat
well and be active3.
Thrive! has four strategic directions:
1. Support a Healthy Start for Children and Families
2. Equip People with Skills and Knowledge for Lifelong Health
3. Create More Opportunities to Eat Well and Be Active
4. Plan and Build Healthier Communities
In order to meet the priorities in each area, we must realize that 75% of the estimated factors that
determine our health lie outside of the health-care system.
Determinants of Health4
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Physical and social conditions that people experience daily in the places where they live, learn,
work and play
Availability, accessibility, and quality of health-care, social, educational and other services
Environmental, social, economic, and cultural conditions of our society and communities
Healthy pregnancy and early childhood development
Personal characteristics and behavior, such as lifestyle choices
Biological factors such as sex, age, and genetic legacy
Each of the factors look different in each community and culture, and must be addressed on a
community level when it comes to creating opportunities to be physically active in Membertou.
2
Thrive! A Plan for a Healthier Nova Scotia - https://thrive.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/Thrive-StrategyDocument.pdf
3
Thrive! Nova Scotia
4
Thrive! Nova Scotia
6
Vision Statements, Mission Statement
Community Vision Statement
Siawita’ykw weja’ tekemak ta’n amskwesewe’kik kikmanaqik pekisiluulkni’k, Maupltu siaw-wlipma’tutew Mi’kmauti, kmitkinu aq teli-ktantu’kw mimajuaqn kulaman kikamanaq elmi’kmik
wtapesultitaqq ta’n tel wli pmiaq l’nue’kati.
Building on the legacy of our founding families, Membertou will balance its cultural, environmental, and
economic pillars to ensure future generations will inherit a healthy thriving Mi’kmaw community.
Membertou aims to fulfill the community vision by working in partnership with other government and
commercial entities exploring opportunities that facilitate managed growth allowing us to deliver high
quality services which benefit the community.
Physical Activity Strategy Vision Statement
Physical activity in Membertou is valued, instinctive and enjoyed by the entire community, regardless of
age, ability, and economic status.
Physical activity: Bringing us back to our roots and building a healthier future.
Physical Activity Strategy Mission
To create partnerships, opportunities and experiences with and for Membertou residents to realize both
the Community Vision Statement and the Physical Activity Strategy Vision Statement to ensure that
Membertou has an active, healthy future.
7
Definitions – terms that may be found throughout
document
Physical Activity – movement that increases heart rate and breathing, and any bodily movement
produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure.5
MPAL Coordinator – Mi’kmaw Physical Activity Leadership Coordinator/Municipal Physical Activity
Leadership Coordinator
Sedentary behavior – Postures or activities that require very little movement6
Moderate-intensity physical activity – Causes the child/youth to sweat a little and breathe harder (e.g.,
bike riding, playground activities)6
Vigorous-intensity physical activity – Causes child/youth to sweat and be ‘out of breath’ (e.g., running,
swimming)6
Chronic diseases – ailments and health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic
respiratory diseases and diabetes, which can be prevented or managed with physical activity7
Built Environment – part of our physical surroundings and includes the buildings, parks, schools, road
systems, and other infrastructure that we encounter in our daily lives.8
Social Environment – the strength of social networks within a community, region, province or country. It
is reflected in the institutions, organizations and informal giving practices that people create to share
resources and build attachments with others.9
Physical Environment –Physical activities take place in physical environments. Physical environment
includes the natural environment and the built (or man-made) environment. Physical environments are
likely to influence the amount and type of physical activity, this influence can be positive or negative.9
Active Transportation (AT) - any form of human-powered transportation – walking, cycling, in-line
skating, and a variety of other ways.10
Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) – A framework presented by Canada Sport For Life – a
developmental pathway which athletes follow optimal training, competition and recovery regimens
from childhood through all phases of adulthood, creating individuals who will be active for life.11
5
Caspersen, Powell & Christenson, 1985
Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP). Canadian physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines
handbook. Ottawa, ON: CSEP, 2012. www.csep.ca
7
Preventing Chronic Disease Strategic Plan 2013-2016, Public Health Agency of Canada
8
Health Canada, Division of Childhood and Adolescence (2002), Natural and Built Environments
9
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, VCE Physical Education, Unit 3 (2011-2014)
10
SmartTrip Dalhousie (http://www.dal.ca/dept/sustainability/smart-trip/active-transport.html)
11
Canadian Sport For Life
6
8
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior
What exactly is physical activity?
Physical activity means: “Don’t be lazy. Get up and get going!” – Youth focus group participants
Physical activity can be defined as movement that increases heart rate and breathing, and any bodily
movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure12.
Most of us know that physical activity is good for our body, mind and spirit. Yet over half of Nova
Scotians are not physically active enough to enjoy the health benefits. We spend more time sitting at
work, in cars, and in front of television, computers and video games than we do enjoying the outdoors,
moving, getting from place to place without the use of a vehicle. Labour-saving devices like
lawnmowers and snow blowers further limit physical activity.
Fewer kids walk or bike to school. Adults are driving easy walking distances. Other common challenges
to being active are lack or time, poor access to facilities and costs associated with recreational activities.
Obesity is a problem of national and global significance. Nova Scotia has one of the highest rates of
youth obesity in Canada13. Although a large proportion of girls and boys in Grade 3 achieve that standard
(82% of Grade 3 boys and 80% of Grade 3 girls), the proportion meeting the standard declines sharply in
the older grades. Less than a third of boys (28%) and less than a fifth of girls (13%) in Grade 7 met the
standard, and by Grade 11, fewer than one in 100 girls (1%) and one in 20 boys (5%) met the standard.
14
.
Why is physical activity important?
Is Physical Activity important? “Yes, so you don’t become, like, a couch potato!” – Youth focus group
participants
“It is very important to the community. I see all these children becoming obese- not just overweight, but
I mean obese. I am concerned for the children.” – Elder focus group participant
Physical activity plays an important role in the health, well-being and quality of life of Canadians. People
who are physically active live longer, healthier lives. Active people are more productive, and more likely
to avoid injury and illness.
The benefits of physical activity span across all sectors of life – Physical, Mental, Social, Environmental,
Academic, and Economic. Some examples:
Physical and Mental
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12
Improves quality of life
Reduces risk of chronic diseases – diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc.
Capersen, Powell & Christenson, 1985
Tjepkema, 2006, Willms et al., 2003
14
Keeping Pace, Nova Scotia, 2009-2010
13
9
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Manages weight and diseases
Improves sleep
Enhances growth and development
Improves concentration, memory and learning
Promotes mental health (coping, resiliency, self-esteem)
Prevents or manages mental health (anxiety, depression, etc)
Social
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Creates safer places (eyes on streets)
Encourages family and community connectedness
Environmental (Active transportation)
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Reduces traffic congestion
Reduces air pollution
Education
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Helps children process information, concentrate and behave well
Improves performance (math, IQ, reading)
Economic
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Produces health care savings
Attracts tourists
Supports business and employment
Reduces absenteeism at work
Reduces youth crime
Encourages community growth and development
Active transportation means more money spent in local businesses
What about Sedentary Behavior?
Sedentary behavior refers to any postures or activity that requires little movement15. In general, this
means that any time a person is sitting or lying down, they are engaging in sedentary behavior.
Common sedentary behaviors include watching television, playing video games, computer use (“screen
time”), driving and reading.
How can it impact health?
Researchers recognize sedentary behavior as a health risk. It contributes to weight gain and becoming
overweight or obese. Some of the issues associated with sedentary behaviors include:
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15
Diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, cancer
Increased weight gain, leading to being overweight or obese
Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP). Canadian physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines
handbook. Ottawa, ON: CSEP, 2012. www.csep.ca
10
This behavior not only impacts the health of adults, but the health of youth as well:
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Decrease in HDL (good cholesterol) and increases triglycerides (fat levels in blood)
Increased risk of obesity, and chronic diseases
Increased bone loss
Reduced attention at home and in school
Increased risk of tobacco and alcohol use
Lower self-esteem
Increased aggression
So, why is it so hard to be active?
“The older kids want to have naps… we’re tired from school” – Youth focus group participant
“Get rid of the internet, they have to leave their houses!”
“Take the machines away for a while and kick the kids outside.” – Adult focus group participants
There are many factors contributing to sedentary behavior. Some factors are genuine, others are
perceived16. Some of the factors that limit our activity can be:
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16
More sedentary work environments
Automobile-focused community designs
Lack of awareness of physical activity options
Changing family structures and busy family lifestyles
Competing family priorities
Safety fears – either assumed or founded
Cost barriers
Thrive! Nova Scotia
11
Physical Activity & Sedentary Behavior- Canadian Guidelines17
Ages 0-4
Ages 5-17
 180 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity PER
DAY
 TV, Computers & video games are not recommended from
ages 0-2; limited to less than 1 hour per day for ages 2-4
 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity PER
DAY
 TV, Computers & video games should be limited to less
than 2 hours per day for ages 5-17
Ages 18 and up
 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity PER
WEEK
More is always better!
17
Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative – Atlantic Region, Public Health Agency of Canada
12
Community Profile
Named after the Grand Chief Membertou (1510 – 1611) the community of Membertou belongs to the
greater tribal group of the Mi’kmaw Nation. Membertou is situated 3 kilometers from the heart of the
city of Sydney, Nova Scotia, within its tribal district of Unama’ki (Cape Breton). It is one of five Mi’kmaw
communities in Cape Breton, and one of thirteen in the Province of Nova Scotia. Membertou is an urban
First Nation community consisting of over 1377 people, and one of many communities that make up the
Cape Breton Regional Municipality, with a total population of over 97 thousand people. Aboriginal
people make up the fastest growing population in an area where the majority population is aging.
Membertou’s population has seen a 65% increase since 1995.
Membertou was not always situated at its present location. Many years ago, Membertou (formerly
known as the Kings Road Reserve) was located just off of Kings Road, along the Sydney Harbor. In 1916,
the Exchequer Court of Canada ordered the relocation of the 125 Mi’kmaq; the first time an Aboriginal
community had been legally forced through the courts to relocate in Canadian history. In 1926, the
Membertou Community was officially moved to its present day location.
Membertou operates under the Indian Act of Canada; federal legislation enacted by the parliament of
Canada. It is governed by 1 Chief and 12 Councilors that are elected every two years by the Membertou
community members. Chief Terrance Paul has been elected Chief of Membertou since 1984.
In 1995 the Membertou Band had 37 employees. The community was poor with low morale and a high
unemployment rate. Membertou realized the need to put its financial house in order while embracing
transparency and accountability. While this task required sacrifice it also generated a renewed sense of
13
accomplishment and discipline that quickly earned the respect of external parties in government and
industry.
In December 2001, Membertou received notification that their Housing, Finance, Corporate, Health,
Social and Natural Resources departments had received ISO 9002 certification. This established
Membertou as the very first Aboriginal government in Canada and the world to be ISO 9001 certified.
Membertou has established itself as a credible organization in the business world with this
internationally recognized certification. Since 2001, Membertou has added 13 additional departments
under its ISO 9001 certification.
Today, through strong leadership from Chief and Council, other senior members of management and
adherence to ISO standards, Membertou continues to show the world that they have transparent and
consistent management policies.
Over the last ten years, the number of employees has jumped from 37 to just under 700 (March, 2014) –
including seasonal employees. There are many new internal departments and businesses such as the
Membertou Market, Membertou Geomatics Solutions, Membertou Trade and Convention Centre,
Membertou Entertainment Centre and Membertou Business Plaza.
Membertou has its own Wellness Home, Youth Centre, Daycare, state-of-the-art elementary school, and
sports field. Realizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle, the opening of the Membertou Sport and
Wellness Centre is also in the near future. The Centre will include two ice pads, an indoor walking track,
and a 3,000 square foot fitness centre. Membertou embraces its mandate of creating wealth, wellness
and infrastructure.
“Through the turmoil of the last century, Membertou has come from being a “have not” community to
becoming a “have” community. Membertou is not creating an enduring community; Membertou has
been living in one for many generations. Membertou will continue to live graciously, live respectfully
and live as proud as they do today. Presently Membertou works through economic development in
order to bring gracious abundance to the community”18.
18
Membertou Community Website
14
Membertou lies within the heart of Sydney, a division of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM).
Sydney holds a population of 31,59719. The CBRM is made up of the city of Sydney, and the towns of
North Sydney, Sydney Mines, Glace Bay, New Waterford, Dominion and Louisbourg, with a total
population of 97,39820 – which includes two First Nations Communities- Membertou and Eskasoni.
Membertou First Nation owns four parcels of land, but only one is used for residential and commercial
use, and makes up the Membertou reserve. The community has a geographical size of 256 acres, which
holds over 300 homes and businesses, and is located 1.6 km from Sydney’s center.
According to the latest known census data, Membertou’s population can be broken down into the
following categories:
Residency
# of People
Registered Males On Own Reserve
414
Registered Females On Own Reserve
422
Registered Males On Other Reserves
18
Registered Females On Other Reserves
20
Registered Males Off Reserve
252
Registered Females Off Reserve
248
Total Registered Population21
1,374
19
Statistics Canada – 2011 Census data
Statistics Canada – 2011 Census data
21
Statistics Canada – 2006 Census data
20
15
22
Population Characteristics
Total Population
0 to 4 years
5 to 9 years
10 to 14 years
15 to 19 years
20 to 24 years
25 to 29 years
30 to 34 years
Age
35 to 39 years
40 to 44 years
45 to 49 years
50 to 54 years
55 to 59 years
60 to 64 years
65 to 69 years
70 to 74 years
75 to 79 years
80 to 84 years
85 years and over
0
100
200
300
400
Population
Male
22
Statistics Canada – 2006 Census
16
Female
Total
500
600
700
800
Based on the Key Findings Study, completed in 2009-2010, youth are not meeting the physical activity
guidelines. “The standard for physical activity for children and youth is that they accumulate a minimum
of 60 minutes of physical activity at a moderate or greater intensity level per day, at least 5 days of the
week. Although a large proportion of girls and boys in Grade 3 achieve that standard (82% of Grade 3
boys and 80% of Grade 3 girls), the proportion meeting the standard declines sharply in the older
grades. Less than a third of boys (28%) and less than a fifth of girls (13%) in Grade 7 met the standard,
and by Grade 11, fewer than one in 100 girls (1%) and one in 20 boys (5%) met the standard. Moreover,
in Grade 11, 61% of girls and almost two-fifths of boys (38%) did not obtain 60 minutes of physical
activity of moderate or greater intensity on any day of the week.”
Membertou’s youth population is a large percentage of the overall population of the community. It can
be seen here:
Ages 5 to 19 years
250
200
150
100
50
0
Male
Female
Total
23
Census-selected Family Characteristics
Total number of census families
Number of married-couple families
Number of common-law-couple families
Number of lone-parent families
Number of female lone-parent families
Number of male lone-parent families
0
24
23
24
Statistics Canada – 2006 Census
Statistics Canada – 2006 Census
17
50
100
150
200
250
Labour Force Activity
600
Population
500
400
300
200
100
0
Total Population 15
years and over
In the labour force
Employed
Unemployed
Not in the labour force
Activity
Male
Female
Total
25
Mode of Transportation to Work
160
140
Population
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
Car, truck, van, as Car, truck, van, as
driver
passenger
Public transit
Mode of Transportation
Male
26
25
26
Statistics Canada – 2006 Census
Statistics Canada – 2006 Census
18
Female
Total
Walked or bicycled All other modes
Existing facilities and opportunities within
Membertou and surrounding area
Recreation (Built facilities)
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Access to Greenlinks Trail/Rotary Park
Baseball field
Basketball courts
Bike lane along Churchill Drive through
the community
Buster’s Pond
Football/soccer field
Gym space in Membertou Elementary
Gymnasium with fitness
equipment/boxing club
Walking track
Playgrounds (2 public, 2 school-owned)
Sidewalks along majority of Membertou
Street, Maillard Street and surrounding
the elementary school
Youth Center – space in the back for
recreation
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Recreation within 5 kilometers of
Membertou
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Education
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Adult Education (future)
Membertou Elementary
Wallace Bernard Memorial Centre
(daycare)
Healthcare/Wellness
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Dental Therapist
Membertou Wellness Centre – doctor
and other health care professionals on
staff
Senior’s Centre
Weekly blood collection
Media
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19
C99 FM Radio Station
Cape Breton Connect
Cape Breton Post, The Chronicle Harold,
What’s Going On – Print/Online Media
within the CBRM
CBRM Recreation Facebook page
CJCB Radio, 101.9 The Giant, 94.9 The
Cape, Max 98.3 FM, The Eagle 103.5
FM, CBC Radio – Radio stations within
the CBRM
Membertou’s bi-weekly newsletter
Membertou’s Official Facebook page
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Atlantic Street Field and Walking Track
Baille Ard Nature Trails, Greenlinks
Trail, Rotary Park, Open Hearth Park,
Petersfield Provincial Park, Wentworth
Park
Baseball field – St. Anthony Daniel,
Alexandra Street (if maintained),
Jailhouse Field (Welton Street),
Brookland Elementary Playground
Centre 200 –Preschool, Family skate
program
Family Place Resource Centre
Playgrounds – Shipyard Elementary,
Alexandra Street, Argyle Street, Atlantic
Street, Brookland Elementary, Mira
Road Elementary, Lady of Fatima,
Riverview Soccer Club
Skate Park – St. Anthony Daniel
Sydney Baseball League
Sydney Boardwalk
Sydney Minor Hockey
Whitney Pier Arena – Ice time for
Community Members
YMCA
Existing Recreation & Sport
Opportunities/Potential Opportunities
Within Membertou
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55+ Club
Annual Fishing Derby
Basketball, hockey and volleyball
programs at Membertou Elementary
Babies and Books Program
Boxing club and coach
Buster’s Pond
Camp Carter Camping Trips –
Membertou Elementary
(Winter/Spring)
Coed Volleyball times
Elders in the Classroom – Membertou
Elementary
Equipment in the community for use –
hockey gear, soccer gear, lacrosse
equipment, snow shoes
First Nations Riders (Snowboarding
Program)
Heritage Park classes, workshops,
lessons
Hockey School
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Ice Time at the Pier Rink
Leave Out ViolencE (LOVE) Program
Membertou Annual Pow Wow
Membertou Elementary Afterschool
Program
Membertou Summer Day Camp
Mi’kmaw Surf Camp
Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Summer Games
Parents Against Drugs walk, dances
PGA Youth Golf Clinics
Science camp/Computer camp at the
Youth Center
Sweats
Unama’KIDS
Wallace Bernard Memorial Hockey
Tournament
Wellness Home-sponsored ski trip
Youth Centre outings and workshops
Youth Council
Youth Hunts
Youth Physical Activity Leadership
Program
Policies
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20
Crossing Guards to be placed in school zone
Speed limit set to 30 km/h throughout community
Speed limit reduced to 20 km/h within school zone
Animal by-law preventing roaming dogs and vicious breeds in Membertou
Recreation Reimbursement Program
Employee Gym Fee Reimbursement Program
Community Gym Fee Reimbursement Program
Mi’kmaw Physical Activity Leadership Program
YMCA-Membertou Corporate Sponsorship Program
Public Consultation
In order to better represent the population of Membertou, paper and online surveys were made
available for public input in the month of June 2014. As well, a series of focus groups focusing on Elders,
Youth and the Adult population were held in the community in June 2014. The data was collected and
analyzed by Nova Insights Market Research and Consulting and will be used to guide this strategy.
The objective of the research was to further the development, implementation and continued
evaluation of physical activity strategies in municipalities and Mi’kmaq communities across Nova Scotia,
and to provide local data to inform the strategies on physical activity – and the extent to which these
align with physical activity opportunities in the area.
Executive Summary of surveys and focus groups
 It is important to note that this data is considered self-reported data. Self-report physical
activity data commonly overestimates actual physical activity levels. The self-reported results in
this survey are meant to provide a baseline for comparison in the future.
 Residents report (on average) being physically active about 3 days per week, and a very strong
majority describe themselves as being physically active, and intend to become more so over the
next six months.
 Household tasks and walking are the most common physical activities overall (at least weekly).
This is followed distantly by at-home exercise
 Walking is the most commonly mentioned activity in which residents would like to increase their
participation. More than half would also like to participate more frequently in swimming and
strength training.
 Residents are most commonly active on roadways. A second tier of places where residents are
active include at home (outdoors and indoors), at work, and trails and pathways.
 Residents say they enjoy and value physical activity, and strong majorities feel they have the
skills to be physically active. However, significant proportions cite cost of participation as a
barrier, and some lack skills to participate more.
 A significant proportion say they have health issues that impact their ability to participate more
in physical activities.
 Access to leadership for coaching and instruction is a significant challenge for the community.
Finding programming that is convenient and of interest is also a challenge for many.
 If physical activity programs could involve family and/or other people to increase the social
component, many more people say they would increase their participation.
 A majority express concern over the cleanliness and attractiveness of recreation facilities in the
community.
 A strong majority say their community has sufficient access to safe and attractive places to be
physically active outdoors. There is less agreement on the availability of drop-in sport and
competitive sport opportunities.
 More than half of residents walk to specific destinations at lease weekly. One-in-six use a
bicycle at least weekly.
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 Almost all residents would like to walk more often, and say improvements in sidewalks, trails
and indoor walking spaces would impact this increase the most.
 Two-thirds would like to bicycle more often, and point to safety considerations (bike lanes on
the road, quiet streets, better lighting) that would impact their decision to increase their
bicycling.
Community Advice – Suggestions quoted from the community survey
Facilities and equipment
“Access to the school gym, especially with Summer Games approaching”
“A community center needs to be founded, with space for classes like yoga, dance, self-defense, etc.”
“A fitness center that is monitored with safe equipment and good lighting.”
“An indoor walking track”
“A clean, well maintained fitness center with proper heating and lighting”
Social – better programming for groups
“Programs for those with heart trouble”
“Variety of times to participate in clubs and gyms”
“More running clubs for youth”
“Walking programs”
“More choices of activities”
“Classes offered to targeted groups (by age and activity level)”
Roads – sidewalks/bike lanes
“Provide sidewalks in all areas”
“More sidewalks throughout the rest of the reserve”
“All streets should have sidewalks and a clear bicycle route”
“More sidewalks, so walking can be done more comfortable and more enjoyable”
“More traffic signs”
Increasing Activity
“They need to have a program that will get a group interested in one thing, not just one. The group
draws the rest in, like a teamwork type of thing. It should challenge them and help with their outlook on
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life. Something that they can progress in that when they are done it will better them and give them a
healthier outlook on life. Come out with a skill, etc.” – Elder focus group participant
“They realize our elders have some health problems, so they are interested in how that happened.” –
Elder focus group participant
“You need some consistent programs, not just here for a while and then gone again.” – Elder focus group
participant
“Getting volunteers is the hard part. Everyone wants to be paid these days. Volunteers are supposed to
help because they enjoy the work, not to get paid.” – Adult focus group participant
“There is an individual that lends out hockey gear for those that could not afford to buy it. Maybe do the
same for dance uniforms, etc.”
“We go out into the woods and pick Mayflowers and after a while, other kids would come with us, and
the kids didn’t even realize they were exercising”
“Make the gym available!”
“If the band subsidizes everybody regardless of your income. Why do they discriminate because if you
work hard and have a salary.”
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Goals and Action Plans
With the above highlights and suggestions in mind, working with a few departments within the
Membertou Band, and with consultation from the community, the following goals, objectives and action
plans have been created:
Table Keys:
Action: Items that will help achieve each goal
Partner: Individuals, organizations, programs and stakeholders that can be involved to achieve each goal
Goals
Programs
-- Develop/support/build leaders and programs that are designed to engage children
and youth, adults and seniors in physical activity year-round
This goal has been created to target the population and increase physical activity, therefore
increasing the health of the community members. Health ailments, social interactions,
personal skills and pride in community will be improved.
Action
Youth Physical Activity Leadership team
consisting of high school students from
Membertou
Train Walkabout Leaders to host walking
groups within the community
Create a community-wide running club for
children of all ages
Train leaders in physical fitness for seniors
in various areas
Connect elders and youth to create
opportunity to share traditional knowledge
and skills
Connect community members to the Cape
Breton YMCA, utilizing the Membertou
Corporate Sponsorship program for
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Partners
Education Department
Sydney Academy staff and students
BAM Partnership Committee
LOVE Program
MPAL Coordinator
Heart & Stroke Foundation
Community Members
Wellness Department
MPAL Coordinator
Youth Physical Activity Leadership
Team (when established)
Education Department
Run Nova Scotia
MPAL Coordinator
Wellness Department
Department of Health and Wellness
Community Members
Heart & Stroke Foundation
Cape Breton YMCA
Elders Committee
Community Members
Youth Physical Activity Leadership
Team
LOVE Program
MPAL Coordinator
Membertou Band Council
Cape Breton YMCA
subsidized membership fees to provide
space and opportunity for affordable activity
for the entire family
“For us older people, activity was a way of life. We did a lot of activities because of survival,
getting our own water, etc. But with the technology now, it is not a need anymore. It’s
destroying our spirit too. We don’t need to chop wood – just turn on a thermostat.” – Elder
focus group participant
“When I was growing up, we used to have activities pretty much every day – archery on
Mondays, floor hockey Tuesdays and Wednesdays, basketball on Thursdays, outdoor
activities on the weekend and Friday was our movie night.” – Adult focus group participant
-- Develop/support/build leaders and programs that encourage physical activity in the
workplace year-round
This goal has been created in response to the Needs Assessment Survey which stated that
6% of Membertou employees are active each day at work.
Action
Organize active team-building events with
the Membertou Staff
Create friendly competition opportunities
between departments with physical activity
challenges
Partners
MPAL Coordinator
Human Resources Department
Membertou Wellness Home
Membertou Band Staff
Heart & Stroke Foundation
MPAL Coordinator
Human Resources Department
Wellness Department
Membertou Band Staff
Heart & Stroke Foundation
Goals
Built Environment
-- Promote a safe and clean community, focusing on recreation areas
Community members had expressed concern, in the survey and focus groups, over the
cleanliness and attractiveness of recreation facilities in the community.
Action
Community clean up days
Seek out grants to refurbish recreation
spaces – playgrounds, basketball courts,
soccer/football fields, baseball fields,
walking tracks and trails
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Partners
Membertou Community
Health & Safety Officer
Businesses and organizations in
community
Department of Health and Wellness
Sport Nova Scotia
MPAL Coordinator
Membertou Band Council
Public Works
Include field use schedules in the
community newsletter to advise when the
field is open for community use
Create a schedule for gym use at
Membertou Elementary school to ensure
the gym is accessible.
Ensure the proposed Health and Wellness
Center is accessible to residents –
discounted membership fee, free use of the
walking track, etc.
Communication Department
Membertou Band Council
MPAL Coordinator
Education Department
MPAL Coordinator
Recreation Department
Membertou Band Council
Cape Breton YMCA
“If the field wasn’t as dirty as it is now. I miss the field from when it wasn’t full of holes from
all the cleats. It used to be such a clean field, green, and the grass was nice.”
“People just trash it [the basketball court]. It needs a fence, the nets are horrible” – Youth
focus group participant
“The basketball court needs to be cleaned up. There’s usually busted beer bottles. At the
baseball field too. There’s even needles around.”
“Right now we don’t have the facilities. We had a walking track on the football field, but it’s
constantly being used by outside sources.” – Adult focus group participant
-- Advocate for safer roadways (sidewalks, bike racks, benches, street lights)
More than half of Membertou Residents walk to a specific destination at least weekly, and 1
in 6 bicycle at least weekly. Almost all community members taking part in the survey and
focus groups pointed to safety concerns and would increase their walking and cycling if
safety precautions were to take place.
Seventy-one percent of residents ranked well maintained sidewalks as having great impact
on the decision to walk more, and 93% say that it would have some impact on their decision
to walk more. Walking is the most common form of activity that residents take part in.
Action
Extend the sidewalk along Tupsi Drive and
Bradley Street
Ensure all departments are made aware of
their responsibility where sidewalks are
involved: where sidewalks are needed, how
often to maintain, and which department is
responsible for the maintenance (yearround)
Host Making Tracks sessions with youth of
all ages for walking, cycling, rollerblading
and scootering
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Partners
MPAL Coordinator
Membertou Band Council
Public Works
Capital Projects Planning Committee
Membertou Band Council
Public Works
Capital Projects Planning Committee
MPAL Coordinator
Ecology Action Center
Education Department
Distribute information highlighting the
benefits of safer roadways, and how to
ensure safety while sharing the road with
vehicles
Recreation – Summer Student Employment
BAM Students
LOVE Program Participants
Communication Department
MPAL Coordinator
Ecology Action Center
“More sidewalks, so walking and biking can be more comfortable and more enjoyable.” –
Community survey comment
“All streets should have sidewalks and a clear bicycle route.” – Community survey comment
“People don’t seem to know the speed limit. And I don’t feel safe enough to bike with my
children. I’m constantly scared of cars & my kids. But I want to encourage them to be
physical. Biking is one thing they enjoy doing. We need sidewalks.” – Community survey
comment
Goals
Public Education
-- Promote to increase Active Transportation
More than half of residents walk to get to their destinations, and less than that cycle at least
weekly. Increasing those numbers would increase health in the community and decrease
vehicular traffic.
Action
Conduct media campaign to highlight the
benefits of AT – cost effectiveness, health
benefits, community benefits
Partners
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
Ecology Action Center
CBRM Active Transportation Department
Create a map highlighting the areas within
5km of Membertou that is accessible by
walking and cycling, and how it ties in with the
core of downtown Sydney
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
Ecology Action Center
Bicycle NS – Blue Route
CBRM AT/Planning Committee
-- Utilize social media and local media outlets to educate community members on
benefits of regular physical activity
Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter tend to reach the more inactive individuals,
and the community has assets like the Aknutmaqn (Community Newsletter) and a radio
station, C99FM to help reach community members
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Action
Highlight community members, in the
Community Newsletter, on C99FM, and via
social media, who are active on a regular
basis
Create a Facebook Page and Twitter account
dedicated to promoting physical activity
opportunities inside and outside of the
community
Promote current financial programs offered by
the Recreation Department in Membertou –
Recreation Reimbursement Programs,
Employee Gym Fee Reimbursement
Program, and Community Gym Fee
Reimbursement Program, as well as outside
programs such as KidSport and Jumpstart
Include field use schedules in the community
newsletter to advise when the field is open for
community use
Partner
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
Community Members
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
Recreation Department
KidSport Program
Jumpstart Program
Communication Department
Membertou Band Council
-- support local and provincial initiatives that aim to educate and increase physical
activity and healthy living
Action
Support and partner with organizations to stay
updated on initiatives that can be extended to
benefit residents
Partners
Heart & Stroke Foundation – Walkabout
Program
Thrive! Nova Scotia
Active Kids Healthy Kids
Department of Health and Wellness
Cape Breton Connect
Cape Breton YMCA
Goals
Capacity Building
-- Create a database of all trained/certified community members
This goal has been created after discussion with community members and department
heads. There is a resounding need for trained individuals dedicated to Membertou athlete
development.
Action
Create an Aboriginal Coaches Association –
Membertou Sector, which will include names
of trained community members, and any
upcoming training available. Include Physical
Activity Leaders, along with Sport-Specific
Leaders
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Partners
MPAL Coordinator
Sport Nova Scotia
Community Residents
Aboriginal Sports Consultant with MK
Ensure coaches database, once established,
is available to community members who may
be in need of certified coaches or volunteers
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
-- Create quality physical activity leaders
Community engagement has been a long-standing issue and by having community
members trained and dedicated in leadership, there will be less need to reach out to
residents outside of Membertou.
Action
Create Youth Leadership opportunities
Ensure students and employees with direct
contact with youth participate and become
certified with High Five and High Five Sport,
as well as First Aid/CPR
Identify and facilitate training for community
physical activity leaders in appropriate sport
leadership and fitness instruction
Recognize outstanding volunteers through
media outlets
Partners
MPAL Coordinator
LOVE Program
Youth Physical Activity Leadership Team
Heartwood Centre for Community Youth
Development
Cape Breton YMCA
MPAL Coordinator
Recreation Nova Scotia – High Five
Human Resources Department
Recreation - Summer Student Employment
Health & Safety Department
MPAL Coordinator
Department of Health and Wellness
Various Sport and Fitness Related
Organizations
Membertou Band Council
Cape Breton YMCA
Other funding partners
MPAL Coordinator
Communications Department
Community Members
-- Utilize the Long Term Athlete Development model as well as the Canadian Sport 4
Life model and become a National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Certified
Community and/or a Canadian Sport 4 Life Community
Having champions in the community can ensure that Membertou residents become Active
For Life. Trained coaches can ensure proper practices and safe environments for the
athletes. This goal will ensure youth and community members will have a positive
experience with physical activity and sport, extending the participation.
Action
Offer various coaching certifications –
beginning with Multisport Modules, continuing
onto sport-specific trainings
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Partners
MPAL Coordinator
Sport Nova Scotia
Department of Health and Wellness
Other funding partners
All individuals coaching teams for the Nova
Scotia Mi’kmaw Summer Games will be In
Training or Certified coaches in the sport they
are coaching
Create an annual 12-month coach
development schedule open to community
members and members of the Aboriginal
Coaches Association, including high school
students
Work towards establishing a coaching
mentorship program, enabling community
members to gain hands-on experience in the
sport or area they are training to coach
Implement year-round physical literacy and
movement skills pathways, focusing on ages
0 through 12, aligning with, and following best
practices recommendations of Canadian
Sport 4 Life and the Long Term Athlete
Development model
Trained coaches are recommended to train
athletes year-round with the Nova Scotia
Mi’kmaw Summer Games as goal for training
MPAL Coordinator
Sport Nova Scotia
Department of Health and Wellness
Other funding partners
MPAL Coordinator
Sport Nova Scotia
Department of Health and Wellness
Aboriginal Coaches Association
Aboriginal Sports Consultant with MK
MPAL Coordinator
Sport Nova Scotia
Various Sport Bodies within CBRM
Community Members
MPAL Coordinator
Sport Nova Scotia
Trained Community Members
MPAL Coordinator
Trained Coaches
Community sport facilities (school, fields,
gymnasiums)
“Mi’kmaq Summer Games promotes physical activity throughout all the communities. Having a place to
practice (ex. The new Membertou school gym) could increase committed players for basketball and
volleyball. Membertou has a lot of talent, just nowhere to practice. We go into tournaments blind all
these years, winging it!” – Community survey comment
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Implementation Process
An implementation or action committee will be formed and will include vested stakeholders,
representatives from various departments within the Membertou Band, Membertou community
members and the Mi’kmaw Physical Activity Leadership Coordinator. The committee will come together
in mid-to-late 2015, and will meet monthly to ensure the strategy goals are being met.
Evaluation Process
A great strategy needs to be examined to ensure it is helping make positive changes within the
community of Membertou. The strategy and the effect it has on the residents of Membertou will be
evaluated in 5 years by conducting another community-wide needs assessment, and through individual
interviews. Success would be measured by self-reporting data, and by the overall health and wellness of
the community.
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Appendices
1. Membertou Community Map
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2. Departmental Interviews
1. Is there any activity/program/initiative that you feel would benefit the community that
currently isn't being offered?
2. Is there any policies you would like to see created? What about capacity and leadership
building within the community?
3. What do you feel the main issues are in regards to the lack of physical activity in the schoolaged/general population?
The questions were posed, but we had an informal discussion instead of a question-and-answer session.
Some notes that came from the discussions:
Education Department – Bruce Herney
-
Friendly competition between departments to encourage team building and physical activity
Highlight active community members through Facebook and in the newsletters – range from
youth, to seniors
Promote diabetes awareness
Use the BAM team to facilitate a community clean up
Assign ownership of different sections of the community – maybe there would be less vandalism
and littering.
The playgrounds are a mess, there is a lot of loose gravel on the walking track, which makes
walking difficult for some.
Create a new Facebook page for promoting physical activity, and so others can comment on
what they’ve done to be active.
Education Department – Sharon Bernard
-
Walking Wednesday continued
School travel plans to increase the number of walking students
Field trips involving physical activity such as hiking
Yoga and/or meditation for students and teachers
Community use of the school gym and sports fields
Social Department – Joan Denny
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Programs like Tai Chi, chair exercises, pole walking
Fitness classes and exercises for seniors, elders, people with knee problems, orthotic shoe
suggestions, etc.
Organization of coaches for youth in sports
Baseball program in the spring – skill building in each position, hands on coaching
Team practices for youth – sports where there isn’t many youth playing – boys basketball, girls
baseball, boys volleyball
Running clubs
Swimming at the Coast Guard College
Volunteers are needed!
3. Community-wide Needs Assessment Survey – attached
4. Results of Community-wide Needs Assessment Survey – attached
5. Thrive! A Plan for a Healthier Nova Scotia – Please visit
https://thrive.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/Thrive-Strategy-Document.pdf to access the
strategy.
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