Social Prescribing

What is this project about?

At CCCKL, we recognize that while health care is essential, it cannot address all the social and community factors that influence well-being on its own. Supporting health beyond medicine requires a coordinated approach across the community, including health care, informal social networks, and local service organizations.

This project emphasizes two core components: (1) increasing awareness of the link between health and social connection, and (2) strengthening structured support for volunteers and system navigation.

A social prescription may begin in a health care setting, where a provider identifies that a person’s well-being could be improved through greater social connection and refers them to community-based activities. It can also begin in the community, when an individual or family member reaches out directly for support. Regardless of the entry point, our team ensures participants are connected to programs and supports that best meet their needs and interests.

Our work goes far beyond simply sharing program information. We build ongoing relationships with participants such as following up on attendance, exploring how activities are supporting their well-being, and adjusting social prescriptions as needed. We actively reduce barriers to participation, including arranging transportation or connecting individuals with additional community resources.

Community Connector volunteers are at the heart of this approach. With a “neighbors helping neighbors” model, volunteers draw on their lived experience and local knowledge to provide empathetic, peer-led support. Their guidance ensures isolated community members are successfully connected to programs, fostering both social connection and overall well-being.

Going forward, we want to expand the reach of this project to rural communities in the Kawartha Lakes. It is our goal to complete a minimum of 200 social prescriptions by December 31st, 2026.

Why is this project important to the community?

Many rural residents in the City of Kawartha Lakes face barriers to participating in programs that improve their wellbeing, from transportation challenges and income limitations, to simply not knowing what is available nearby. This project increases access to programming by building personal connections that guide individuals to resources that fit their needs and circumstances. It also creates opportunities to engage community spaces and bring people together in welcoming, inclusive settings by reducing isolation and strengthening local networks. This project helps residents and providers alike to understand the connection between social participation and overall health and wellbeing, fostering a shared commitment to health beyond medicine. By supporting people on an individual level, reducing barriers, and using local spaces as hubs for learning and connection, this initiative empowers residents to take part in community life, improves wellbeing, and encourages a culture where everyone sees connection as part of health.
Target Completion Date
December 31, 2026
Location
21 Angeline St North
Lindsay
K9V 5B7

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