Community Connections Network
Strengthening Community Connection Across Ogden
The Community Connections Network is a citywide initiative led by Weber State University's Office of Community Development through our place-based initiative, OgdenCAN. We bring together residents, community organizations, local government, faith communities, and Weber State University to foster belonging, civic action, and social cohesion across Ogden.
Network Partners
- Communities that Care (CTC) of Ogden
- MyHometown
- Encircles
- Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness (USARA)
- Northern Utah Interfaith Works
- Weber State University School of Health Administrative Services
- ³Ô¹Ï¹ÙÍø staff, faculty, and students
Our Approach: Listening, Learning, and Co-Creating
Because Ogden currently lacks a comprehensive baseline on social connection, we are starting by listening. Through citywide surveys, focus groups, and community conversations, we aim to understand how different groups experience belonging and access in our city.
Following this initial research phase, the Network will evolve into a long-term learning hub. Partners will gather for workshops, panels, shared research, and collaborative projects to translate insights into meaningful action for the common good.
Why This Work Matters
While existing community data provides insight into health, education, and economic conditions, significant gaps remain regarding how people across Ogden experience belonging, trust, and community connection.
For instance, establishing a comprehensive, representative baseline across all neighborhoods will help us identify where connections are strong, where barriers exist, and how institutional practices can better support our community.
Growing Towards a Citywide Learning Network
Following data collection, the Network will transition into a learning network where residents, organizations, institutions, and the university can learn from each other, identify opportunities, and explore actions that strengthen community connection.
Over time, we hope others will apply this learning as a new lens for designing public spaces, programs, services, and institutions—asking not only whether something is accessible or functional, but whether it helps people connect, participate, and feel that they belong.