The Minor Works Program is all about bringing small ideas to life that can make a big difference in our neighbourhood. Whether you want to share an idea, offer your skills, or just want to get involved, it’s an environment in which everyone can contribute and create meaningful change.
Neighbourhood is building a culture of collaboration where resources are available, and everyone’s ideas matter. If you want to be part of something that makes our community better, the Minor Works Program is the place for you!
Why Big Projects Are Great, But Minor Works Can Make Life Even Better
When you think about where your tax dollars go, you might picture towering bridges, sprawling tunnels, state-of-the-art hospitals, or sleek railways slicing through the landscape. These major works are the bread and butter of government budgets—Major Works Programs with equally massive price tags. And let’s be clear: these big-ticket items are crucial. They solve big problems, keep us moving, and improve the way we live and work.
But here’s the thing: while these infrastructure marvels undoubtedly make our cities better, they don’t always make our lives happier. Happiness isn’t just about shiny new structures or smoother commutes. It’s about feeling seen, being useful, connecting with others, and knowing that you have a say in the place you call home. Happiness often comes from the little things—those everyday moments that add a sparkle to life.
That’s where the Minor Works Program comes in. Think of it as the perfect partner for big projects, focusing on the smaller, more personal initiatives that make a neighbourhood tick. We’re talking about planting flowers, not pouring concrete.
And here’s the best part: the impact of these minor works is anything but minor. They foster real connections, boost local pride, and create a sense of belonging that no stadium or stormwater basin ever could. Plus, they’re easier on the wallet and don’t require a decade of construction dust and detours.
So, the next time you admire a new bridge or enjoy a smoother train ride, remember that these major works are doing their job—making our cities stronger and more functional. But also consider how a few more flowers, a neighbourhood get-together, or a thriving local business could make your community better and happier. The Minor Works Program shows that life can be truly major when you add the little things to the big picture.
Soup Night: it all starts over a bowl of soup
Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and community building at our bi-monthly Soup Night at QT – Neighbourhood Node! Also known as “a potluck for ideas”, Soup Night is designed to bring great ideas to the table.
Together with new and old neighbours, we will spark discussions about community ideas, skills, and interests. Whether you have a project in mind, a skill to offer, or just want to connect, Soup Night is the perfect place to start.
Neighbourhood Project Library
The Neighbourhood Project Library is an online tool that keeps track of all the ideas and projects that are floating around in our Neighbourhood, and their trajectory from idea to projects to real life things. It helps you see where each idea is at, whether it is just starting out, being planned, in action, or already completed and celebrated. You can explore projects at every stage – to follow along, find inspiration, or maybe even get involved in bringing an idea to life!
The library is interactive: you can comment on and vote for your favourite ideas, and you can keep track of which ideas are progressing and what stage they are at. Some projects may be looking for people to get involved in a project team or lend their specific skills or expertise, if this is the case you can find details of who to contact in the description.
If you would like to submit an idea yourself for others to get involved in, use the ‘submit idea’ button or come along to the next Neighbourhood Soup Night!
