In newer neighbourhoods, like the ones we build at MLC, oftentimes there is no community league in place. This article will explain how residents can take advantage of this situation and turn it in to an opportunity to engage with neighbours and build a truly connected, resilient new home community for many years to come.
For this article, we talked to the City of Edmonton and the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues about the steps you can take to create a new community league in your neighbourhood.
Let’s get started with tips from the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues:
How to Start a Community League
Steps
- The process takes between 12-18 months
- First, start talking with neighbours. It helps to have a goal around which to rally interest. Maybe it is building a playground or starting a soccer team. A common goal helps build momentum, but if you don’t have a goal, that’s OK too!
- Keep gathering neighbours until you have a small “Steering Group” of 5-10 people.
- Optional: start a community Facebook Page.
- Once you have a steady group of 5-10 people:
- Optional. The City of Edmonton Neighbourhood Resource Coordinator will come to community groups when there are 5 or more people and give a presentation about Community League, all you have to do is ask!
- The the group must get together and complete the following in order to become official:
- 1. Create an official registered society
- 2. Create a document that specifies how they will work together.
- 3. Write a letter of intent to the EFCL and the City that demonstrates that the group has thoroughly investigated the need for a league in their community.
- 4. Complete a Needs Assessment
- 5. Decide on bylaws
- 6. Submit bylaws and registered society documents to Registries
- 7. Wait for approval. Timeline is usually 2-5 months.
- 8. Congratulations! Your Steering Committee can now officially form a board.
What makes a Good Community League?
According to the EFCL
We look at the group’s ability to organize people. We like to see a stable core of about 6 volunteers maintained over the formation process so I have a good idea that they can form a board of directors after they incorporate.
Colin Johnson, Governance & Programs, Senior Director, EFCL
Sound Daunting?
It is!
But the impact you will have at the neighbourhood level is astounding. Fostering an engaged community league is one of the best ways to ensure your neighbourhood is a safe, sustainable, and resilient place to live for years to come.
City of Edmonton
We chatted with the Neighbourhood Resource Coordinator with the City of Edmonton and found out some interesting tips!
- A healthy population for a community league is between 5000-15,000.
- Make contacts with people in nearby areas and join together. It makes for good infrastructure. Together you can have enough land for a structure or a rink.
- Did you know? The City of Edmonton Neighbourhood Resource Coordinator will send your group a PowerPoint presentation that outlines tons of helpful information for new community groups. Just ask!
What exactly is the EFCL? The Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues is here to support communities in Edmonton! They provide:
-Workshops
-An online resource library for members
-One-on-one support
-Assistance with governance and programming
Community League Wellness Program
Did you know?
The City of Edmonton has a Community League Wellness Program. Your valid community league membership gives you TONS of perks at certain City of Edmonton recreation facilities! You get things like:
- 20% off an Annual Membership
- 15% off a Multi Admission Pass
- 20% off a Continuous Monthly Membership
Read more about the City of Edmonton Community League Wellness Program
