A Celebration of Public Participation Excellence
The International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) is delighted to announce the winners of the prestigious 2024 Core Values Awards. These awards shine a light on remarkable contributions to public participation (P2), highlighting initiatives that have significantly influenced community engagement and collaborative decision-making.
Highlights from the 2024 Awards
This year, finalists from North America showcased their exemplary work in several categories. Canadian participants highlighted their efforts in three distinct areas: Indigenous Engagement, Respect for Diversity, Inclusion, and Culture, and Creativity, Contribution, and Innovation. American finalists were honored in four different categories: General Project, Creativity and Innovation, Respect for Diversity, and Organization of the Year. An exciting aspect of the event is that from these remarkable recipients, both a Canadian and an American Project of the Year are selected to advance to the IAP2 International Core Values Awards.
Exceptional Canadian Projects Recognized
Among the distinguished Canadian award winners, the Respect for Diversity, Inclusion & Culture Award, along with the Project of the Year Award, was awarded to Canadian Blood Services. Their case study titled Rebuilding Trust with 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities: Co-Developing a Public Apology illustrated a crucial step in mending relationships with marginalized communities. This initiative was developed with close collaboration and consultation, acknowledging past harms caused by previous policies that disadvantaged sexually active gay, bisexual, and queer men. The public apology symbolizes the organization’s commitment to rebuild trust with those impacted.
Acknowledging Indigenous Engagement
The Indigenous Engagement Award went to Squamish Nation and Beringia Community Planning for their innovative project, Chet wa í7sun “We Pull Together:” S?wx?wú7mesh Úxwumixw Elder’s Program Plan. This inspiring three-year initiative involved Elders and youth working together to create an inclusive program grounded in S?wx?wú7mesh values and culture. The heartfelt efforts showcased the deep respect and incorporation of Indigenous wisdom into their community practices.
Innovative Approaches in Public Engagement
The Creativity, Contribution, and Innovation in the Field Award was awarded to Transportation Investment Corporation and Lucent Quay Consulting. Their case study on the Fraser River Tunnel Project highlighted an innovative environmental assessment process designed to engage communities effectively by appealing to the five senses. This approach transformed a typically technical regulatory process into an interactive experience that resonated with the participants, making the engagement more meaningful.
Recognizing Achievements in the United States
Turning our eyes South, the General Project Award and Project of the Year Award were proudly presented to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for their exceptional Better Bus Network Redesign Public Engagement. In 2023, they launched the largest public engagement initiative to date, focusing on redesigning the bus network while ensuring the transition to zero-emission buses. This initiative aimed at connecting with hard-to-reach communities through various dynamic engagement methods.
Pioneering Community Engagement in Philadelphia
The Creativity and Innovation Award went to the City of Philadelphia Department of Planning and Development for their work on Framing the Future of the Roundhouse. Their commitment to engage the public in reimagining the former Philadelphia Police Headquarters is evident in their inclusive approach that utilized over 10 diverse engagement methods. This effort captured the narratives and experiences of members from various communities, ensuring that the redevelopment process was reflective of the community's collective voice.
Empowering Communities in Oregon
The Respect for Diversity, Inclusion and Culture Award was awarded to Oregon Metro for their groundbreaking Nature in Neighborhoods Community Choice Grants. This program adopted a participatory approach, allowing community members to propose and develop projects for funding, emphasizing racial equity and climate resilience. With a total of $2.3 million allocated, the program supported 44 community-led projects benefitting historically underserved populations.
Celebrating Leadership and Commitment
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality received the Organization of the Year Award for their dedication to enhancing public participation through the establishment of the Community and Intergovernmental Engagement (CIE) section. In alignment with IAP2 principles, this initiative addresses the public's need for clear, equitable engagement in environmental decision-making.
Moreover, the Greater Good Award acknowledged the outstanding leadership and service offered by Theresa Gunn, formerly with ADEQ, while the Emerging Leader Awards went to Scarlett Schroeder from Strategic Earth Consulting and Sergio Torres-Peralta from the City of Austin Office of Sustainability. Their commitment to the core values of IAP2 has made a significant impact in the public participation field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the IAP2 Core Values Awards?
The IAP2 Core Values Awards recognize exemplary contributions and projects in the field of public participation.
Who were the 2024 Canadian Project winners?
The winners included Canadian Blood Services, Squamish Nation, and others for their impactful work in community engagement.
What types of projects were honored in the United States?
Projects included the Better Bus Network Redesign and initiatives focused on community engagement and diversity.
How do these awards promote public participation?
By showcasing best practices and innovative approaches, these awards encourage others to enhance their community engagement efforts.
Where can I find more information about the award recipients?
Further details and videos of the award recipient projects are available at their respective websites following the awards announcement.
