Agenda Package - City of Vernon

Evaluation of Homelessness Strategy for the North Okanagan
G.3 Final Thoughs
"To occomplish greot things, we must not only oct, but olso dreom; not only
plan, but also believe."
Homelessness is a troubling and growing phenomena in our country, our province and in
our region. This is despite the efforts of numerous organizations, many hard-working
individuals, and various levels of government working collectively to ameliorate this distressing
sítuation. How we approach the issue is a critical determinant as to how effective we are in
dealing with it; failure of which most certainly results in the numbers of homeless continuing to
increase, and the economic and social costs of homelessness continuing to skyrocket.
The accomplishments achieved in Vernon and the North Okanagan over the past four
years should not be underestimated nor unappreciated - they are real and significant. A
proactive, collaborative, inclusive and effective approach with a substantive track record of
success is already in place. Success in moving forward will require building on this foundation;
taking these best practices and solidifying them. But as importantly, success in moving forward
will require a new understand¡ng of a changing and challenging situation; more specificity and
accountability, a renewed commitment and substantial effort. Given the record to date these
challenges will most certainly be met,
Lffi
rrSt¿t{
'il4
Lochaven Management Consultants Ltd.
November 20L0
Page 46
115