United Way Centraide Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent has officially released Voices of Chatham-Kent: Shaping Our Community's Future Together' - a new report which highlights the priorities, concerns and ideas shared by nearly 600 local residents.
According to the United Way, the report marks a significant step forward in how United Way and its partners will invest in and support the Chatham-Kent community, with a renewed focus on equity, prevention, and long-term impact.
Lorraine Goddard, the CEO of United Way Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent launches Voices of Chatham-Kent' report at St. Clair College's Chatham Campus on Aug. 25, 2025. (Rich Garton/St. Clair College)
"This is more than just a report - it's a call to action," said Lorraine Goddard, CEO of United Way Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent. "People across Chatham-Kent were incredibly clear: they want bold, collaborative solutions that address root causes and create real, lasting change. We're committed to working alongside our community to make that happen."
During consultations, residents identified six key priorities that need to be addressed to improve life in Chatham-Kent: affordable housing, mental health and addiction support, food security, youth development, employment and transportation.
United Way representatives said it is exploring a collective impact approach, which brings together residents, service providers, funders, and decision-makers to align around shared goals and coordinated action.
"People want a community where services work together, where supports are easier to access, and where everyone, especially children and youth, can thrive," said Goddard.
The report was unveiled at St. Clair College's Chatham Campus on Aug. 25, 2025, before a crowd of stakeholders.
"It's especially fitting to be here today at St. Clair College, one of the post-secondary institutions in the region, and one that plays such a vital role in supporting education, skill-building, and opportunity in our community," Goddard said.
Art Barron, the Institutional Lead at St. Clair's Chatham Campus, called education "the great equalizer."
"Education is a powerful tool for unlocking opportunity and breaking the cycle of poverty," Barron said. "When we invest early and strategically, the results are long-lasting."
"At St. Clair College, we believe deeply in the power of education to transform lives. As one of the region's post-secondary institutions, we see first-hand how access to learning and training opens doors, not just for individuals, but for families and entire communities. The insights and priorities reflected in United Way's new report provide valuable guidance as we all work together toward a brighter, more inclusive future," said Barron.
The United Way will return to the community to validate its findings and ensure its on the right path. The agency also plans to develop a community investment model to help determine the programs, services and supports needed to create long-term, meaningful change for the community.
"The Voices of Chatham-Kent report gives us a clear roadmap, a guide towards future investments that are fair, accessible, and sustainable," said Goddard. "With strong collaboration and a shared sense of responsibility, we can build a stronger Chatham-Kent, one where every person has the opportunity to thrive."
The full report is now available on the United Way website.
"United Way is proud to walk alongside the community as we shape the future together," Goddard said.
