There are many workers who have an occupational responsibility to respond to trauma, but are not considered traditional first responders (i.e., police, fire, and paramedic). Such professions include (but are not limited to) correctional officers, frontline homeless shelter staff and security, harm reduction and supervised consumption site workers, and search and rescue teams. Research demonstrates that individuals in these professions experience similar trauma-responses to first responders, albeit often without the same support and safeguards. The study described in this protocol paper aims to explore the burnout and resilience experienced by these overlooked “forgotten” first responders. Using a mixed-methods approach, including an online survey, focus groups, and semi-structured interviews, the study will investigate burnout rates, resilience strategies, and barriers to well-being faced by people doing this important work.
Applied Research Day
Our industry partners, the City of Ottawa’s Recreation, Culture and Facility Services (RCFS) engaged our team through the City Studio initiative to address key challenges in their Youth Strategy. RCFS identified several priority areas requiring attention: improving youth access to spaces, developing effective communication channels for youth engagement, investigating reasons behind low participation rates in municipal programs, and creating youth programs that deliver meaningful long-term benefits.
When examining youth programs offered by the City of Ottawa, we observed a significant focus on sports (20.5%) and aquatic (69%) programs, with very little dedicated to art and general interest programs (5%) (City of Ottawa, 2024a). Arts programs – encompassing visual arts like drawing, painting, and pottery, as well as performing arts such as dance and music – along with general interest activities like cooking, crocheting, writing, and board games, are significantly underrepresented (City of Ottawa, 2024a). This imbalance presents a critical challenge: how can RCFS provide truly inclusive programming for youth who don’t gravitate toward sports-based activities?
Our study used a mixed-methods approach to understand youth participation in arts and general interest programs at Ottawa’s recreational centres. We engaged the community through the following methods:
An online survey with 58 Ottawa youth aged 16-18
In-depth interviews with 5 youth participants
Interviews with 14 subject matter experts including recreation coordinators, educators, and community leaders to understand programming challenges and opportunities.
We propose a community engagement plan that places youth at the center of RCFS’ youth strategy. This approach begins with RCFS actively engaging youth councils and collaborating with City of Ottawa departments that serve youth. These collaborations will be facilitated using design workshops to capture diverse voices in the community to share ideas. By integrating youth directly into the decision-making and planning process of recreational programs, RCFS will empower young people, strengthen community partnerships, and develop pilot programs that align with youth interests and local needs.
References
City of Ottawa. (2024a). Register Ottawa | Browse and register for courses and camps. Activecommunities.com. https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/ottawa/home?locale=en-US
The FIFA World Cup 2022 was a significant event for Qatar, marking the first time a Middle Eastern nation hosted the global tournament. However, the event was accompanied by major challenges, including labor rights issues, last-minute policy changes, and security risks. This case study critically examines how Qatar handled these crises, identifying both successful mitigation efforts and areas for improvement.
With Saudi Arabia preparing to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034, many of these same challenges are expected. This study explores Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach in addressing infrastructure, security, labor laws, and sustainability, ensuring that lessons from Qatar’s experience inform their preparations. By analyzing Qatar’s successes and missteps, this case study provides valuable insights into effective crisis management strategies for mega-events in the Middle East.
Using dynamic editing and motion graphics, this project brings permaculture concepts to life. By enhancing provided content with refined visuals and smooth transitions, we created an engaging learning experience that makes complex ecological ideas more accessible and visually compelling for a wide audience.
In order to revolutionize trash management worldwide, our project presents a brand-new automated waste handling system. Our goal is to reduce pollution and landfill waste by improving the efficiency of waste identification, collection, and compaction
The Elder Care web app helps families manage senior care with appointment scheduling, medication reminders, and emergency alerts. It connects with a watch to monitor health metrics, ensuring real-time updates, seamless caregiver coordination, and peace of mind for loved ones.
Agricultural pests threaten global food production, often requiring chemical pesticides that harm ecosystems, degrade soil, and pose risks to human health. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) offer a sustainable alternative by targeting and killing insect pests without affecting non-target organisms. These microscopic roundworms actively seek out insect hosts, infect them, and release symbiotic bacteria that kill the host within days.
This study explores the genetic and behavioral factors influencing the effectiveness of various strains of EPNs as biocontrol agents. Molecular techniques, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA barcoding, are used to identify and differentiate between the nematode strains, providing insights into their genetic traits. Additionally, behavioral assays assess their responses to insect-emitted chemical cues, determining their host-seeking efficiency and infection rates. By comparing these responses, we aim to identify which strains exhibit superior pest-targeting capabilities.
Ecological factors are also examined, as these conditions impact nematode survival and performance. Understanding how genetic traits and ecological factors interact is crucial for optimizing their use in different agricultural settings. If specific conditions enhance EPN activity, farmers can modify soil management practices to maximize their impact, making biological pest control more practical and reliable.
This research supports reducing reliance on chemical pesticides, promoting sustainable farming practices, and enhancing soil health. By optimizing EPN deployment, we contribute to a more environmentally friendly and effective pest management strategy.
This study examines heavy metal levels in Ottawa’s waters using ICP spectroscopy and assesses macroinvertebrate biodiversity through PCR and qPCR techniques. By combining these methods, the study provides a comprehensive approach to monitoring water quality, detecting environmental contamination, and aiding conservation efforts.
Canada’s growing population, driven by immigration, puts increasing pressure on infrastructure—housing, healthcare, and education. This project develops a data-driven forecasting tool to analyze and predict the country’s ability to absorb new residents.
By leveraging real-world data (CMHC, provincial healthcare & education stats, Statistics Canada), we assess capacity vs. demand and provide insights for policymakers, urban planners, and researchers. Our interactive tool helps answer the critical question: How many people can Canada sustainably accommodate?
Mold Remediation: Addressing health and safety concerns within the clubhouse.
Lighting System Improvements: Enhancing visibility for extended play hours.
Outdoor Facility Enhancements: Upgrading courts, furniture, and surroundings.