Sparking conversation and action among city residents is the eventual goal of today's release of the first Vital Signs report by the Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie.

Close to 500 local residents filled out the survey, which was then combined with local stats to provide a snapshot of the quality of life in the city and surrounding area.

Executive Director Tracey Vavrek says one issue that respondents repeatedly brought up is the difficulty in getting a family physician.

"I've talked with doctors and they've told me that they'd like to come to Grande Prairie, but that community is what will bring them here." says Vavrek.  "And what brings people to Grande Prairie when we are talking about community is some of the recreational opportunities."

"When you look at our library and see that our stats are an over 200 percent increase from when the new library was built up to where they are today - that's absolutely amazing."

Poverty levels, homeless shelter use and the high cost of living were also concern areas that were expressed.

But on the flipside, respondents were happy with employment opportunites and the sense of community that is felt in our city.

The full report can be viewed online at www.buildingtomorrowtoday.com
 

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