What is the RDA? What does the RDA do for our communities?

The LQRDA came into being by an Act of Incorporation in 1996. There are 13 RDAs across the province and each has its own set of duties and priorities, according to the needs of the communities in that particular area. Here in Lunenburg Queens, we use a model of economic development called “Community Economic Development”, or CED.

Under CED, our job is to work with community members to bring about developments that enhance and nourish the characteristics of our towns and villages. The idea behind CED is that it is the community that makes the decisions about its own future, by involving its citizens in making and acting upon development plans. It is the RDA’s job to work with these individuals or groups to help them through the process.

Ultimately, what we are trying to achieve is sustainable (long-term) developments that will strengthen the communities, making them more attractive for the citizens that live there, more appealing for people or organizations thinking about investing in the area, and presenting the right “package” for newcomers considering moving to the area. In much of what we do, we are facilitating or advising, taking a back seat and interjecting where necessary. There are times, however, when it is necessary to take a leadership role to ensure our area’s strategic initiatives are met.

The RDA encourages and facilitates community-based planning for economic, social and institutional change that will further the development of the communities served. Working with businesses and community organizations, we co-ordinate programs that affect private and voluntary groups, labour groups, companies, non-profit organizations, co-operatives, and our local community college. It is the strong leadership from these groups that brings about such things as business investment, jobs, and opportunities for individuals through education, training and participation in locally-driven ventures.