We’re proud to support From the Ground Up, an ambitious program aimed to support community-led change by CP Planning. The program, co-developed with United Way Greater Toronto, is designed to equip non-profits and resident leaders with the tools, strategies, and confidence to lead equitable, community-driven planning and development.
It is a hands-on, virtual program is built for residents, grassroots organizers, community advocates, and emerging leaders who want to build stronger, more just communities from the ground up.
Program Details
Who?
From the Ground Up is designed to support staff from non-profit organizations and resident leaders in neighbourhoods across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). For the purposes of this program cohort, resident leaders are community members who take initiative in organizing, and mobilizing others around local issues.
When?
From the Ground Up runs every two weeks from September to December 2025. Applicants should ensure they can participate in at least 3/5 program sessions and attend at least 1 special event.
What?
From the Ground Up offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends foundational knowledge, hands-on strategy, and real-world insights from experts and organizers working across housing justice, urban planning, and community development. It includes 5 sessions:
- Session 1: Foundations of Land Use Planning
- Session 2: Navigating Planning Processes
- Session 3: Mapping Assets and Matching Tools
- Session 4: Lessons from the Field
- Session 5: Building a Community-Led Plan
Outcomes
This program is designed to support your long-term leadership and community impact. You’ll leave with a stronger grasp of how planning systems work – and how to influence them, practical skills to move along your project, greater confidence in your role as a local advocate, and a network of peers working towards equity in their communities.
Questions?
Please contact Sally from CP Planning, at Sally.El.Sayed@Cpplanning.ca