When it comes to accessing services around the city, it can be tough to know where to start. 

Resource Connect is an event that aims to bring Edmontonians and service providers together. On Oct. 28 from 10 am to 4 pm, people will have the opportunity to discover this unique event where both citizens and agencies can find each other in one place.

In partnership with Edmonton Public Library (EPL), the event is a chance for community members and service providers to connect in a mutually beneficial way. 

“By coming together, we hope to build a stronger community service, become more aware of each other, and explore possibilities for increased alignment and support,” says Kelly Holland, community engagement manager at REACH Edmonton. 

The event started at Stanley Milner Library in 2017, and then moved to a few different community venues while the library was closed for major renovations.

“EPL has been involved since the very first one,” says Holland. “It has gone around the community and this year it comes back to the initial venue at the newly renovated library. We are so excited to be back after the pandemic put these kinds of events on hold. We’re looking forward to holding it every second year going forward.”

The event will feature a farmers market-style setup with space for 81 agencies to connect with the community. 

“We are able to accept 81 agencies as exhibitors in order for people to be able to social distance and be comfortable,” says Holland. 

The event is not just open to community groups and agencies as exhibitors; educational institutions have also been invited to come and chat about possible internships or practicums. 

“We’ve also invited Edmonton Youth Justice to come to explore different places to serve community service hours,” says Holland.  “It’s a great platform for people to come and look for volunteer opportunities, job opportunities. We’re asking all the exhibitors to bring job postings, volunteer sign ups, and any other opportunities they have available.”

Of the 81 agencies attending, 10 will be giving 20-minute presentations in the library theatre about the work that they do.

“We want the benefits of this event to flow in both directions,” she says. “It’s a service for everyone.”

The event needs volunteers to help set up, tear down, and do other work to make the event a success. 

To sign up to volunteer, visit: tinyurl.com/2s3ra8mu. 

To apply to be an exhibitor, click here: tinyurl.com/2adwtuwm. 

Resource Connect will be held in the basement level of the Stanley A. Milner Library on Friday, Oct. 28 from 10 am to 4 pm.For more information, visit: resourceconnectyeg.ca.