Harrison: No elephants in the room

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the privilege of attending annual general meetings and community conversations across West Carleton.

One thing became unmistakably clear: our community is powered by multi-generational volunteer leaders who step up, speak up and show up for their neighbours.

From long-standing community builders to the next generation of emerging voices, every age group brought honesty, courage and a real desire to make West Carleton stronger.

Groups like West Carleton Disaster Relief and the Constance and Buckham’s Bay Community Association set the tone beautifully with open dialogue, shared problem-solving and zero elephants in the room. When volunteers lead with integrity, transparency and compassion, everyone feels welcome at the table. That’s what makes this community so remarkable.

To every volunteer leader, thank you. Your time, your care and your willingness to lean in create safer, more connected neighbourhoods. You are the backbone of West Carleton’s resilience.

And to the wider community, your voice matters just as much. Get involved. Attend a meeting. Ask a question. Offer an idea. We build a stronger West Carleton together, not separately.

And if you’re looking for a way to jump in, come join us at the Carp Santa Claus Parade on Dec. 6!
Look for our banner…we’ll be the ones handing out all the treats!

Together, let’s keep the conversations open, the community strong and truly no elephants in the room.

Christine Harrison is a registered psychotherapist, founder and clinical director of Focus Forward Therapy Group, and a dedicated community leader with more than 15 years of experience serving West Carleton. She previously held a leadership role in mental health programming at the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre (WOCRC) and currently serves as a director with Carp Health Access, where she works to bridge clinical care with grassroots support. Through her work, Christine has championed accessible, evidence-based therapy and advocated for holistic wellness across rural communities. A committed volunteer, healthcare innovator, and proud mom of three, Christine is passionate about building stronger, more resilient communities through collaboration, compassion, and forward-thinking care.

To read all Christine Harrison’s columns, click here.