Oct 3rd, 2024

Media Advisory: Community-Driven Partnership with Carleton University Powers Active Outdoor Space for the Youth of Ottawa Community Housing

Oct. 4, 2024, OTTAWA, ON – The children and youth in the Russell Heights community have a brand-new outdoor gym made possible through a unique collaboration with Carleton University’s Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism.

The two-year, $100,000 project represents the collaborative efforts of the school’s Architecture Action Lab, directed by Assistant Professor Menna Agha, Russell Heights Community House, and Ottawa Community Housing.

Funding came from the Sarah and Cary Lavine Family Foundation, Ottawa Community Housing, and the Ottawa Community Foundation.

Dubbed the “1700 Spot,” this initiative was part of a three-phase community improvement project in collaboration with the tenants and the university students. The project started with community consultations in March 2023. Students used aerial views of the community to develop initial designs. They presented to the Women’s Group and the youth program for feedback thanks to the support of the Russell Heights Community House. The 1700 Spot is comprised of an outdoor gym, seating and games area, and outdoor movie viewing space.

Key Community improvements include:

• A new basketball court
• enhancements to the Youth House – which offers essential programming for children and youth
• A pergola for outdoor activities and gatherings
• An outdoor gym

Some quick facts about the Community:

• Home to 297 children under 17, making recreation an important part of daily life
• Children in single-parent households: 191
• Average monthly income: $2,068 per month

Event details:

Please join us to celebrate this exciting transformation. There will be the opportunity to speak with OCH Partners, staff and representatives from Carleton University. It will also feature a mini-Olympic-style event for the youth and their families to enjoy.

When: October 4, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Where: 1799 Russell Road

Agenda:

5:10 p.m. to 5:20 p.m.: Speeches from Carleton representatives and OCH staff

5:20 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.: Mini Olympics

6:00 p.m. to 6:10 p.m.: Closing ceremonies 

6:10 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Closing remarks and food

*Note: We also have photos of the construction of the outdoor gym and pergola, which we can send upon request. *

Quotes

“Our partnership with Carleton University’s Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism is a true win-win.  It offers valuable, hands-on experience for students and supports the needs of OCH residents.  This new community space will leave a lasting positive impact, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with Carleton in other communities.”

Stéphane Giguère, Chief Executive Officer, OCH

“In acknowledging the disproportionate challenges faced by Black youth, the project emphasizes creating a space that is not only safe but also empowering. The design integrates elements that encourage social interaction, physical activity, and quiet reflection, all of which are essential for holistic mental health.”

Assistant Professor Menna Agha, Director of Carleton University’s Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism Action Lab

About OCH

Ottawa Community Housing offers approximately 15,000 homes to about 33,000 tenants, including seniors, families, individuals, and people with disabilities. These homes are located in various communities throughout the City of Ottawa and house a diverse population with different languages, cultures, and ethnicities. OCH is Ottawa’s primary community housing provider, managing two-thirds of the city’s housing portfolio and ranking as the second largest in Ontario. In 2024, OCH earned recognition for the seventh consecutive year as one of the National Capital Region’s Top Employers.

For more information, contact:

Jennifer McIntosh
Communications Specialist,
Ottawa Community Housing
media@och.ca
 613-914-9953