Our Community of Practice
at a Glance
The aim of this Neighbourhood Learning Community of Practice (NL CoP) is to bring together a dynamic network of practitioners that are intentionally working together to develop more connected, vibrant, and regenerative neighbourhoods.
By joining this unique CoP you will connect with a diverse network of practitioners that share resources, programs, policies, and best practices for building belonging and strengthening social infrastructure in neighbourhoods.
Participate in our Upcoming Community of Practice Session
Next meeting: September 25 (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM ET)
Title: Get Parked – Activating Local Parks in Vaughan
Join Mark Pajot, climate leader and local parks champion, for an inspiring session on “Get Parked” — a new civic engagement initiative designed to bring Vaughan’s parks to life.
Parks are more than green spaces — they are vital hubs that can strengthen community connections, support mental well-being, foster local business, and spark action on climate. Through Get Parked, residents, businesses, and partners will come together to host vibrant events such as farmers markets, yoga in the park, food truck festivals, art showcases, gardening workshops, and tree planting initiatives.
In this session, you’ll discover:
- The vision behind Get Parked and why activating local parks matters now more than ever.
- How Vaughan’s parks can address today’s biggest challenges — from climate anxiety to economic uncertainty.
- Creative event ideas that build community spirit and support sustainability.
- How local residents, businesses, and organizations can get involved.
With support already from the City of Vaughan, IKEA, McMichael Gallery, TRCA, and other local partners, this initiative is gaining momentum — and you can be part of the movement!
👉 Don’t miss this chance to learn how we can transform our parks into thriving, inclusive, and sustainable community hubs.
Photo Credit: Get Parked
About Mark Pajot
Mark Pajot is a dedicated climate change advisor at the Region of Peel and a passionate local parks champion, with over 20 years of leadership driving innovative solutions that strengthen communities, protect ecosystems, and build resilience to climate change. A recognized thought leader and collaborator, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives—from urban forest enhancement to groundbreaking climate action plans—while inspiring others to reimagine healthier, greener, and more connected communities.
For any specific accommodation requests or technical considerations to make your participation easier, please reach out to Jorge at jorge@tamarackcommunity.ca.png?width=100&height=100&name=Workshop%20Icons%20(2).png)
Countries
Practitioners
Meet Your Community of Practice Facilitator
Jorge Garza (he/him/il) - Director, Networks for Change
Jorge stewards a network of networks committed to ending poverty in all its forms. He collaborates with leaders from across sectors to implement community-led initiatives that address economic poverty, strengthen our relationships with the planet and each other, and advance promising career pathways for youth.
A newcomer with strong roots in México, Jorge previously led Tamarack's Canada-wide movement that mobilized thousands of local champions to counter polarization by centring belonging as a policy priority. His career in the non-profit and philanthropic sectors, including roles at the Metcalf Foundation and the McConnell Foundation, is guided by core values of generosity, warmth, and authenticity. A realistic optimist, Jorge believes in everyone’s potential to build just and regenerative futures. He also advocates for cities of all sizes to be catalysts for social transformation. Jorge currently serves on the Board of Directors of Fondation Béati and co-stewards the foundation's strategic development committee.