Many communities in Canada are using community economic development (CED) to successfully combat socioeconomic decline and build strong community-based organizations that contribute to citizen participation and the cultural diversity of their communities. CED refers to holistic, community-led approaches to building stronger communities.
The relationship between immigrants and refugees and their new communities can be strengthened by transforming existing and nurturing emerging civil society organizations - so that communities are better able to adapt to changing social and economic conditions. These stories are the first published reflections on CED and co-op models being used specifically to foster the social and economic inclusion of newcomers into Canada.
