Purpose of the Living in Niagara – 2011 report

This report maps indicators of the vitality of the community of Niagara. It identifies significant trends providing insights into issues that make a difference in the lives of Niagara residents.
It can be used as:

• an effective tool to encourage discussion about key areas of importance to quality of life in Niagara;
• a catalyst for community action; and
• a basis for evidence-informed planning and decision-making that will strengthen our region.

Applied research will guide solution generation, innovation and community action.

It is an exciting time to live here. Together, we can make Niagara even better!

Living in Niagara – 2011 provides a description of:

• 12 critical sectors that describe life in Niagara and a total of 127 critical indicators associated with these sectors.
• Niagara as a place to live, learn, work, play and grow.
• How well we are doing in comparison to provincial and national trends in 12 areas critical to quality of life in this region.

Living in Niagara – 2011 highlights fundamental trends affecting our community’s vibrancy and quality of life and was compiled by a team of research professionals using available data from numerous reliable and respected sources. The 12 sectors and their indicators were identified, described and quantified with currently available data and research about Niagara. The process attempted to measure key determinants of a vibrant community, to assist groups and individuals to reflect on the critical indicators of life in our region, better understand its vitality now, and then focus on action for a better future. The Niagara Research and Planning Council offers this dynamic document, in the spirit of community capacity-building and collaboration, as a relevant and vital tool for current and future use. The intent is that citizens and leaders will:

• reflect on information about Niagara over time compared to fundamental trends provincially, nationally and in other regions in Canada; and then
• engage in future dialogue about planning and actions for improvement.

This is a status report of Niagara describing twelve sectors that are critical to quality of life in Niagara now and for the future.

It will lead to better-informed decision-making for a stronger Niagara as a place to live, learn, work and grow.