Applied Research for "Theatre in the Pen" - Theatre NorthWest

Theatre NorthWest is a regional theatre dedicated to bringing our audience a wide range of plays drawn from the contemporary Canadian and International repertoire. Actors and other theatre professionals are contracted for each production from across Canada to work with our resident staff in order to bring together a four-play season which runs from September to May. Theatre NorthWest is the largest arts organization in the northern two-thirds of British Columbia. It boasts the most paid attendance, most annual performances, and one of the highest subscription rates in Canada. Research Questions TNW is looking at starting a theatre program in the prison in Prince George. This is a provincial institution, and therefore, inmate sentences are of a short duration. Research should be done with this in mind. Some time should be spent investigating this prison’s population from a statistical and demographic perspective before external research is done. What, if any, theatre programs have been run in similar institutions? What have been the successes and failures of these programs? What might a successful TNW-run theatre program look like in Prince George's prison? In the context of this research, success can mean longevity of program, but should not be limited to this metric. Success is also measured in terms of impact on the artistic process of the facilitator, and on the inmates. Why should I do this? Sharpen your research skills on a project that really matters! You will gain insights into not-for profit and public sectors Gain experience working directly with a professional arts organization We will gift students a pair of season passes for the 2021-2022 season Tell me about the project scope The project may include (key deliverables): A summary of the successes from other comparable programs Direct references to similar programs, provide contact information if available Potential obstacles and risks experienced by other programs The final product of this applied research project will be: A written report (up to 20 pages) with a 1 or 2 page executive summery What resources are available to do this project? Industry connections Preliminary research Access to our printer and office supplies as needed Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: including, but not limited to Social Work, Psychology, Anthropology, Indigenous Studies Relevant experience or skills: Basic research skills already developed Able to work independently/self motivated

Review Career and Resource Modules

PROJECT To review "Student Module: Can a Good Question Change Lives?" and provide feedback. This will involve interviewing local business owners and professionals. Students will be oriented to the review protocol, will complete 5 assignments and a follow up reflection. Tell me about the project scope Students will be introduced to the project and onboarded to the "Student Module: Can a Good Question Change Lives?" This is a 40 page workbook which includes case studies, resources and activities. Students will read through the entire module, annotating areas of interest and concern. Students will complete 5 assignments (e.g. 1. interview a small business owner following a protocol, 2. analyze workplace communication, etc.) Assignments will be presented and discussed together. Students will be assigned a chapter for focus and provide critical reflection. Participate in focus group discussion on resource improvements and recommendations. Key Deliverables Reflection paper AND Completed exercises (5) Interview based on experience What resources are available to do this project? Workbook Online resources Access to local businesses Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: ALL PROGRAMS OF STUDY Relevant experience or skills: Basic research skills already developed Self-motivated Able to work independently/self motivated Why should I do this? Sharpen your research skills on a project that really matters! You will gain insights career goals setting and the not-for profit sector Gain experience working directly professionals from multiple walks of life You will contribute to making our education better! Letter of Reference

Review Career and Resource Modules

PROJECT To review "Student Module: Can a Good Question Change Lives?" and provide feedback. This will involve interviewing local business owners and professionals. Why should I do this? Sharpen your research skills on a project that really matters! You will gain insights career goals setting and the not-for profit sector Gain experience working directly professionals from multiple walks of life You will contribute to making our education better! Letter of Reference Tell me about the project scope Key Deliverables Reflection paper AND Sample of completed exercises Interview based on experience What resources are available to do this project? Online resources Access to local businesses Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: ALL PROGRAMS OF STUDY Relevant experience or skills: Basic research skills already developed Self-motivated Able to work independently/self motivated

Communicating 10 Myths About Homelessness for Together We Stand

Together We Stand is a citizen-led grassroots organization in Prince George that represents over 1000 people who are housed, unhoused and precariously houses in Prince George. We work together to end stigma towards homeless citizens. Research Questions What factors have contributed towards homelessness in Prince George and what might we, as a City and as citizens do to end homelessness and the stigma directed towards homeless citizens? Why should I do this? Sharpen your research skills on a project that really matters! You will gain insights into grass roots organizing and the not-for profit sector Gain experience working directly with citizens and professionals from multiple walks of life You will contribute to making our city better! Letter of Reference Tell me about the project scope Key Deliverables Research paper AND Share a one-page info graphic of your research insights on the TWS facebook page [AND /OR] Conduct a 30 minute virtual presentation and conversation with TWS about your research insights [AND /OR] Conduct a social-media campaign to promote the Dec 1 class presentation. (Including residents of Moccasin Flats) What resources are available to do this project? Bibliography and lit review Online facebook reources Access to group members Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: Anthropology, Indigenous Studies Relevant experience or skills: Basic research skills already developed Able to work independently/self motivated

Applied Research for Together We Stand

Together We Stand is a citizen-led grassroots organization in Prince George that represents over 1000 people who are housed, unhoused and precariously houses in Prince George. We work together to end stigma towards homeless citizens. Research Questions What factors have contributed towards homelessness in Prince George and what might we, as a City and as citizens do to end homelessness and the stigma directed towards homeless citizens? For example, depending on your program of study you might explore: If you are a political science student - How does the increased cost of housing and housing speculation contribute to homelessness? If you are a nutrition or health sciences student - How does poor nutrition contribute to homelessness? If you are a First Nations studies student - How does colonization and land treaties contribute to homelessness? If you are a Media Studies student - How does racism contribute to homelessness? If you are an Engineering student - How does hostile architecture contribute to homelessness? If you are Planning student - How do municipal plans and budgets contribute to homelessness? THIS IS AN INTERSECTIONAL RESEARCH PROJECT SO WE CAN CO-CREATE THE RESEARCH QUESTION BASED ON YOUR FIELD OF STUDY. Why should I do this? Sharpen your research skills on a project that really matters! You will gain insights into grass roots organizing and the not-for profit sector Gain experience working directly with citizens and professionals from multiple walks of life You will contribute to making our cities better! Letter of Reference Tell me about the project scope Key Deliverables Short research paper (<10 pages) AND Share a one-page info graphic of your research insights on the TWS facebook page [AND /OR] Conduct a 30 minute virtual presentation and conversation with TWS about your research insights [AND /OR] Design a social-media campaign to communicate your findings What resources are available to do this project? Bibliography and lit review Online facebook reources Access to group members Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: Anthropology, Indigenous Studies Relevant experience or skills: Basic research skills already developed Able to work independently/self motivated Key words: Social justice, Equity, Anti-oppression, Indigenous, De-colonization, Citizenship, Democracy, Equality, Communities, Cities, Municipalities

Applied Research for Valemount Senior Citizens Housing Society

Valemount Senior Citizens Housing Society Website: www.vschs.ca The Valemount Senior Citizens Housing Society is a registered charity that provides affordable housing and services for seniors in Valemount. Established in 1978, the society currently manages 23 units as well as the Meals on Wheels program. The vision of the society is an inclusive community where the physical, mental and social needs of seniors are met. The society initiated the development of a new supportive living facility in 2020 where independent seniors can age in place by accessing supports like meals and housekeeping to continue living in the community, amongst family and friends. Our office is located in Valemount at 1300 Main Street at Golden Years Lodge in Valemount. Research Question What models have non-profit organizations in small, remote communities in B.C. used to creatively deliver supportive services for seniors when the Ministry of Health is not operating a facility in that community? Why should I do this? Through this applied research project, you will benefit from: Increased understanding of issues facing seniors in northern, remote communities Enhanced knowledge of how innovatively small organizations serve and meet their community needs Increased capacity through shared learning and collaboration Understanding how non-profits evaluate and improve their programs and services Increased skills in networking and professional communications with other organizations Increased skills in community building Sense of purpose / meaning by helping to find solutions for seniors, who are unable to advocate for themselves. Making connections in a small, beautiful community in the region that offers great recreation opportunities and matching you with some fun activities (or freebies) during a weekend getaway. Tell me about the project scope The project may include (key deliverables): Identifying partnerships offer supports for independent seniors in supportive / assisted living facilities Finding funding opportunities for non-profit organizations to provide subsidized (affordable) services for seniors. The final product of this applied research project will be: A report (<25 pages) highlighting: key learnings and insights gained from other non-profit or government organizations a list of organizations with contacts who would be a useful resources for the society existing and possible models for collaboration to deliver seniors’ services funding opportunities to deliver services to seniors recommendations that would work in Valemount A 30-minute presentation on your findings including Q&A, delivered to Rashmi and a couple of society’s committee members What resources are available to do this project? Society email account (if desirable), regular support from project contact, society committee (2 people) Initial List of Organizations and Sample Questions Provincial Organizations that could be resources Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: CNC: Human Services, University Studies UNBC: Bachelor of Health Sciences, Bachelor of Science (Geography), Bachelor of Planning, Bachelor of Social Work Relevant experience or skills: If you’re keen to research and help lay the groundwork for some innovative work, your field of study is not super important. What would work for the project is a self-motivated person unafraid to make cold calls and gather information that would enable northern communities to have the same privileges as the lower mainland, and who is open to learning. We encourage indigenous students, and students with disabilities to apply

Applied Research for "Theatre in the Pen" - Theatre NorthWest

Theatre NorthWest is a regional theatre dedicated to bringing our audience a wide range of plays drawn from the contemporary Canadian and International repertoire. Actors and other theatre professionals are contracted for each production from across Canada to work with our resident staff in order to bring together a four-play season which runs from September to May. Theatre NorthWest is the largest arts organization in the northern two-thirds of British Columbia. It boasts the most paid attendance, most annual performances, and one of the highest subscription rates in Canada. Research Questions TNW is looking at starting a theatre program in the prison in Prince George. This is a provincial institution, and therefore, inmate sentences are of a short duration. Research should be done with this in mind. Some time should be spent investigating this prison’s population from a statistical and demographic perspective before external research is done. What, if any, theatre programs have been run in similar institutions? What have been the successes and failures of these programs? What might a successful TNW-run theatre program look like in Prince George's prison? In the context of this research, success can mean longevity of program, but should not be limited to this metric. Success is also measured in terms of impact on the artistic process of the facilitator, and on the inmates. Why should I do this? Sharpen your research skills on a project that really matters! You will gain insights into not-for profit and public sectors Gain experience working directly with a professional arts organization We will gift students a pair of season passes for the 2021-2022 season Tell me about the project scope The project may include (key deliverables): A summary of the successes from other comparable programs Direct references to similar programs, provide contact information if available Potential obstacles and risks experienced by other programs The final product of this applied research project will be: A written report (up to 20 pages) with a 1 or 2 page executive summery What resources are available to do this project? Industry connections Preliminary research Access to our printer and office supplies as needed Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: including, but not limited to Social Work, Psychology, Anthropology, Indigenous Studies Relevant experience or skills: Basic research skills already developed Able to work independently/self motivated

Applied Research for Omenica Arts Centre

The Omineca Arts Centre is an interdisciplinary, locally-led artist run centre that is grounded in arts-based community development. Omineca continues to facilitate collaboration and diversify opportunities for emerging & professional visual, literary, musical and performing artists. The Omineca Arts Centre is located in a storefront in the pedestrian core of Prince George's downtown. Our aim is to co-develop meaningful and collaborative artistic projects, experiences, and models for catalyzing arts and culture in the Omineca region, while prioritizing inclusivity, responsiveness, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Research Question How can Omenica Arts Centre connect and create relationships with regional Indigenous arts organizations, Indigenous artists, and Indigenous communities? Why should I do this? Through this applied research project, you will benefit from: Furthered knowledge of non-profit arts organization structure and activities Furthered knowledge of Indigenous Nations, communities, and arts across the region Increased skills in professional communications, including respectful and culturally sensitive communications with Elders Increased skills in community building An invite to all Omineca events/planning meetings Omineca t-shirt & tote (and any new swag we develop!) Tell me about the project scope The project will include: The creation of a database of contacts of multidisciplinary Indigenous artists and organizations from across Northern BC Early stage concepts for collaborative events or programs to promote Indigenous artists Ideas about how to promote Omenica within Indigenous artist community outside of Prince George The final product of this applied research project will be: An excel database of Indigenous artists and organizations A 30 minute presentation with time for question and answer What resources are available to do this project? Omineca space and resources Omineca volunteer, board, and curatorial committee contacts Contacts for NIAC, Studio 2880, Freda Diesing School, and TRG, Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: CNC: Fine Arts, Tourism and Hotel Management, Aboriginal Studies, Arts, University Studies UNBC: First Nations Studies, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Planning, Northern Studies Relevant experience or skills: Knowledge of Indigenous protocols and communities Communications skills (written/verbal) and social media experience We encourage indigenous students, and students with disabilities to apply

Applied Research for Mackenzie Legion

Mackenzie Legion is located in the remote community of Mackenzie, BC. It is located 200 km north of Prince George. Mackenzie is unique in that it hosts the World’s Largest Tree Crusher. Mackenzie Legion was started in 1972. Our focus is to help support our community in any way we can. We help our veterans, seniors and youth groups. Research Questions Our community is in need of senior housing. Our question is: “what type of facility would best suit the needs of Mackenzie?” We have an increasing number of seniors in our community, with that comes the issue of how they can remain in the community that they are living in. Due to lack of senior housing, many have to move to larger centers where seniors housing is available. Many have to leave their families in a time when they most need them. Why should I do this? Through this applied research project, you will benefit from: A letter of reference for your future endeavors. 1 year membership to the Royal Canadian Legion. Optional participation in Remembrance Day ceremonies - learn what we are all about. Optional participation in the Poster and Essay Contest as judges (Mackenzie-based students). Build relationships with seniors. We are applying for Riipen “Level Up” Grant. If we are selected students will receive an honorarium. Tell me about the project scope This project has 5 steps: 1. Talk to the Mackenzie Senior Coordinator to learn what has already been done. 2. Conduct secondary research to identify 3 – 5 interesting models / approaches that community organizations in similar rural towns have used to support seniors to stay in their town. 3. Informally share the preliminary results with 2- 3 seniors and listen to their ideas and concerns. We will help you find and meet with seniors. 4. Prepare and deliver a 20 – 30 minute presentation for the Legion executives. We may also invite a seniors group to provide feedback. 5. Prepare a written report for the Legion which explains models / approaches that could be useful for Mackenzie. This will be used to “get the ball rolling” if we decide to move forward with this project. Optional: If you feel confident we would invite you to present your results to the town council. What resources are available to do this project? We feel that there has already been some leg work done toward this project, so a starting point would be to talk to the District to find out who the senior coordinator is. Mackenzie Senior Programs – we will introduce you. BC Housing. If student is interested in learning more about the legion as a whole we can provide websites that they can access. Would I be a good fit? All students, are encouraged to apply. This applied research project would be a great fit for: UNBC Students– Social Work, Anthropology, Environment and Sustainability, First Nations, Geography, Northern Studies, Women’s Studies, Public Administration, Community and Population Health, Psychology, Planning CNC Students– Social Work, Kinesiology, University Studies, Human Services Relevant experience or skills: The student who decides to take on this project will benefit from having good communications skills, and be self-motivated. It would benefit them if they have an interest in small northern communities and if they enjoy working with seniors. We encourage indigenous students, and students with disabilities to apply. We look forward to our partnership with students!

Applied Research - Carrier Sekani Family Services

Research Question: What is the role of virtual care in quality and culturally responsive healthcare? Providing high quality, culturally appropriate and safe services to our member nations is very important. We continually look for innovations that support our clients in their health and wellness journey. We want to better understand the value of virtual care and if it is a strategy to be continued for meeting our client needs. Why should I do this? To learn about culturally responsive care and service provision To learn how an Indigenous service organization evaluates its programs and uses the results to make improvements for the people it serves. To learn how an organization adapted and evolved services during the COVID19 Pandemic To establish relationships that may be a future reference when seeking employment Tell me about the project scope The project will include (key deliverables): 1. Background and Context: Review current literature and develop 1 page summaries on: What do we mean by virtual health care? What do we mean by culturally responsive health care? What is the context of virtual care healthcare in BC- northern BC and some of the successes/barriers/challenges. 2. Data Collection Develop a profile of virtual care users at CSFS (use MOIS-EMR chart data) Assess successes of providing culturally responsive virtual care for CSFS health care providers Assist in developing a survey/focus group questionnaire of staff using virtual care Assist in collecting data If time allows, prepare a summary of the findings in a presentation format The final product of this applied research project will be: A 5-10 page report compiling work completed during the internship. What resources are available to do this project? These resources will be available to support your research: We will provide the intern with relevant files and information to perform the tasks. Office space and access to computer and internet will be available A Data analyst will assist with providing necessary information from our EMR. Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: health or social services programs Relevant experience or skills: Computer programs (excel, word, powerpoint) Comfortable working within a team environment We encourage indigenous students to apply

Applied Research for Brothers Big Sisters of Northern BC

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides proactive mentoring programs to children living in Prince George and throughout Northern BC. Whether the programs are in person or virtually, one to one or in a group, our programs give children and youth the skills and confidence to reach their full potential. The head office is located in Prince George, BC/ Lheidli T’enneh Territory Research Question: How do we successfully amplify our voice and build trust in communities outside of Prince George to recruit for our programs (both children and mentors)? THIS PROJECT WILL BE COMPLETED IN PAIRS***YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO WORK WITH ANOTHER STUDENT, POSSIBLY FROM A DIFFERENT INSTITUTION OR DISCIPLINE Why should I do this? Through this applied research project, you will benefit from: Furthered knowledge of a non-profit structure, activities, and operations Furthered knowledge of creating and implementing child’s programming Furthered knowledge on community events and partners Increased skills in professional communications and building relationships Furthered knowledge on community impact Volunteer reference Tell me about the project scope Key deliverables, in order of priority: Find information on the specific needs of children and families living in communities outside of Prince George within Northern BC Identify service gaps for children aged 7 – 14 Identify what support/recreation resources are currently available for children and families Identify what resources are available for communications within communities (radio, media, local tv, newspaper). List of potential donors and partners in communities outside of Prince George (as time permits) The final product of this applied research project will be: A report no more than 10 pages A 30 minute presentation on your findings (with time for questions) We will meet during the following key milestones: 1. On-boarding and orientation with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern BC 2. Consultation about approach and goals, touch base about the project 3. Mid project touch base 4. Final presentation 5. Reflection What resources are available to do this project? These resources will be available to support your research: www.bigsnbc.ca for information about operations and impact List of BBBS staff/ board members Lists of community partners and contact information Would I be a good fit? Potential programs of study: Marketing, communications, social work, education Relevant experience or skills : Experience working or volunteering with a non-profit organization Experience working with children Communications skills (written/verbal) and social media experience We encourage indigenous students, and students with disabilities to apply How will we communicate? During this project we will communicate by: Email and in person or Zoom meetings Emails will be answered as they come in. Zoom or in person meetings for our 5 milestones.

Research and Recommend: Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on Tourism in PG

Project Scope: -Select 1 – 2 Tourism / Hospitality Organizations for Interview -Participate in Interviews using the Community Futures Interview Guide -Review and Analyze Tourism / Hospitality Data -Present findings, insights and recommendations Our goal at the end of this experience is: Provide consultation to the Community Futures Fraser-Fort George Outreach Program focusing on the Tourism and Hospitality sector in Prince George, providing findings, insights and key recommendations so that tourism and hospitality sector can adapt to the COVID-19 context. Benefits for students: 1. Exposure to > 3 tourism organizations 2. Will learn about qualitative interviewing, professionalism 3. Opportunity for career exploration 4. Reference letter Project Milestones: ALL MEETINGS ON ZOOM, 60 - 90 minutes -September 14: Orientation & Introduction to the Project -September 21: Project Goals, Learning Goals -September 28: Review workplan -October 19: Mid-point Check In -November 16: Presentation to Community Futures and Key Tourism Organizations -November 23: Reflection and Learning Student Requirements: 1. Students are eager to learn, ask questions, are willing to take risks and reflect 2. Open communications between student supervisor (Amelia) and students 3. Practice emerging professionalism 4. Maintain confidentiality of organizational insights and intellectual property Student Supervisor: Amelia Merrick (ameliam@cfdc.bc.ca)