70 Community Leaders Unite to Advance Community Well-Being Across Renfrew County
Renfrew County, ON – On June 2, 2026, More than 70 community leaders from across Renfrew County gathered for the 3rd Annual Community Leadership Exchange, a collaborative forum focused on strengthening community well-being through partnership, innovation, and collective action.
Representatives from healthcare, housing, social services, education, economic development, municipal government, business, transportation, childcare, seniors’ services, and community organizations came together to discuss shared challenges and identify opportunities for greater collaboration and coordinated solutions.
Facilitated by moderator Jodi Bucholtz of Algonquin College Pembroke Waterfront Campus, participants engaged in robust and solution-focused discussions centered on the factors that influence community well-being throughout the region.
The exchange provided an opportunity for leaders to move beyond individual organizational perspectives and collectively examine how community partners can work together more effectively to address complex and interconnected issues. Participants emphasized the importance of community-centric approaches, stronger communication between sectors, and collaborative action that leverages existing strengths and resources.
“The strength of our communities lies in our ability to work together,” said organizers. “By bringing diverse leaders to the same table, we can better understand shared challenges, identify opportunities for collaboration, and develop solutions that create meaningful and lasting impact.”
A key outcome of the event was a commitment to ensure that the discussions translate into measurable action. The priorities identified during the session will be further reviewed, monitored, and evaluated to support actionable outcomes and ongoing collaboration among participating organizations.
Among the key priorities that emerged during the discussions were:
- Cost of Living and Affordability
- Healthcare Access & Mental Health Support
- Transportation & Rural Connectivity
- Affordable Workforce Housing
- Preventative Wellness, Recreation & Quality of Life
- Workforce Attraction, Retention & Development
- Community Inclusion & Welcoming Communities
- Service Coordination & System Navigation
These priorities will help guide future collaborative efforts and inform strategies that support the long-term well-being and resilience of Renfrew County communities.
This edition of the Community Leadership Exchange was hosted in partnership with the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce, Algonquin College Pembroke Campus, County of Renfrew, and the Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation. Together, these organizations remain committed to fostering ongoing dialogue, strengthening regional partnerships, and advancing initiatives that support thriving and inclusive communities.
Further updates regarding identified priorities, action plans, and progress on collaborative initiatives will continue to evolve as the collaborative work continues.
Media Contact:
Jodi Bucholtz
Manager, Community & Student Affairs
Algonquin College – Pembroke Campus
613-401-1305
bucholj@algonquincollege.com
About the Community Leadership Exchange
The Community Leadership Exchange is an annual gathering, initiated by Community Living Upper Ottawa Valley, that brings together leaders from across sectors to discuss emerging community needs, share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and identify collaborative opportunities that support the social and economic well-being of Renfrew County residents.
Summary of Discussion & Emerging Priorities
Despite the diversity of organizations represented, there was remarkable consistency in the issues identified by participants.
The Most Frequently Discussed Challenges
1. Affordable & Workforce Housing
2. Healthcare Access & Mental Health Supports
3. Transportation & Rural Connectivity
4. Workforce Attraction, Retention & Development
5. Cost of Living & Affordability
6. Service Coordination & System Navigation
7. Community Inclusion & Welcoming Communities
8. Preventative Wellness, Recreation & Quality of Life
These challenges were consistently described as interconnected rather than standalone issues.
READ THE FULL REPORT…
This audio summarizes a 2026 collaborative summit where leaders from various sectors gathered to address the most pressing social and economic hurdles facing Renfrew County. The report highlights that issues like housing shortages, transportation gaps, and healthcare access are deeply interconnected rather than isolated problems. Participants emphasized that improving workforce retention and economic growth depends on solving foundational barriers such as affordability and service coordination. A major takeaway from the exchange was the shift toward preventative wellness and proactive community-building to reduce the burden on emergency systems. Ultimately, the source outlines a strategic framework for regional success based on cross-sector partnerships and shared advocacy. This collective vision aims to transform the region into a more inclusive and accessible environment for all residents over the coming year.