| The United Way of the Lower Mainland (UWLM) adopts multiple strategic approaches to achieving social change for the 24 communities, and 2.23 million citizens, it serves. These approaches form the very foundation of their community impact agenda. This action research project explores the internal capacity of UWLM to influence public policies to achieve community impact in its Children 0-6 (Early Childhood) priority area. An action research approach to examining this internal capacity of UWLM will enhance the organization's future government relations strategies and ultimately work towards achieving greater impact on changing community social conditions. Individuals cannot achieve this change on their own; UWLM must work collaboratively with ail stakeholder groups to leverage and sustain social change. This spirit of collaboration also guides the methodology and ethical considerations of this project; collaboration and engagement will breed new levels of understanding and respect for those involved in, and impacted by, this research. |
