Bridging the Gap: Engaging Youth in Ottawa Recreation

Institution: Algonquin College

CSWB plan priority / Ottawa's 2023-2026 Term of Council priority: Mental well-being

Project Term: Fall 2024

Course Code: DSN8014 Industry Project

Professor(s): Jed Looker and Raphael Joseph

Group Member(s): Emma Kiesekamp, Gia Khanh Chuong Hoang, Maria Montano, Mohammedamaan Ahmedabadi, Harsh Saini

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Objective(s): The primary objective of this research project was to explore the key factors that prevented Ottawa’s youth, aged 18 to 25, from accessing recreational services offered by the city. The study aimed to identify and examine factors such as financial constraints, the perceived impact of recreational programs, and the effectiveness of the communication strategies used by the City of Ottawa to promote these services. By addressing these factors, the project sought to understand their influence on participation levels among youth in recreational programs throughout the urban area.

Another important goal was to evaluate the role of recreation in youth lifestyles, considering how it aligned with their interests, schedules, and social preferences. The research assessed the current communication methods and their effectiveness in reaching the target demographic, exploring potential gaps in awareness or misunderstandings about the programs.

Additionally, the study examined the social and economic effects of engaging in city-led recreational activities, investigating how participation or the absence of it affected youth's overall well-being, physical health, and involvement in their communities. Ultimately, this project aimed to provide valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the accessibility and appeal of recreational services. This helped foster stronger connections between youth and the city’s recreational offerings, increasing participation and community involvement.

Potential for Impact: The potential short-term impact of this project was to increase participation in recreational programs for youth aged 18 to 25 in the City of Ottawa. We recommended two key strategies: a new marketing approach and improvements to the flexibility of the City of Ottawa’s programs. By enhancing visibility and increasing program flexibility, we aimed to remove barriers that discouraged youth from participating.

In the long term, this project sought to shape the future of recreation for this age group by providing valuable insights to City of Ottawa employees in creating effective recreation programs. Our research indicated that young adults prioritized the environment of recreational spaces over specific activities offered. They were looking for places outside of school, work, and home where they could socialize and engage in activities on their own terms with their friends. To create this environment, programs needed to be designed with supportive staff and flexible options. Additionally, introducing a culture where users shared their experiences online helped enhance this environment. For instance, encouraging users to share photos on social media using hashtags connected to the City of Ottawa's platforms fostered community engagement.

Ultimately, this project addressed both short-term and long-term improvements in youth recreation. By enhancing visibility and adapting programs to better fit young adults’ lifestyles, the City of Ottawa increased engagement and created meaningful recreational opportunities for this age group.