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Stay tuned to see how we will bring these spaces to life, inspire school communities, and bring students into the process throughout the school year.

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Now it is time to welcome students back. As the school year gets underway and the fall season comes into full swing 🍂, we will be back in these spaces with continued programming that gives students opportunities to play, move, connect, and help shape how their school spaces are used.

A collage of photos showing new shaded areas for students to gather, connect and rest. Large red and dark blue shade umbrellas provide cover over paved and grassy areas, with light-coloured armourstones arranged as seating. The photos show these new seating and shade areas in different parts of the school spaces. Text reads, “Areas to connect and rest with shade and seating!”

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As part of this 8 80 Cities and @opheacanada.bsky.social collaborative project, our 8 80 team is leading the activation of school spaces, working alongside partners and school communities to bring co-created ideas into the physical spaces.

A collage of photos showing colourful games and activities painted on schoolyard tarmac. The games include Mirror Me, with sets of brightly coloured red, blue, green, orange, and yellow circles. Another photo shows a bike rodeo, with painted pathways and markings for cycling activities. Other photos show additional painted games, such as four square, basketball court lines, and movement activities across different areas of the schoolyard. Text reads, “New games and activities on the tarmac!”

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Summer was busy for Growing Healthy Places in Mississauga as we prepared for back to school! ☀️🎒 We spent the summer refreshing school spaces, with painted tarmac games and activities, new seating, shade, and more.

A paved pathway leading toward a school building, surrounded by grassy areas. The pathway features colourful Fundamental Movement Paths, with painted markings and designs that encourage different types of movement and play. Text reads, “Back to School… …we are back to activate their school spaces.” Smaller text at the bottom reads, “Sneak a peek at the summer transformation” with a right arrow after to indicate swiping direction.

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8 80 Cities is bringing #SchoolStreets back to #Toronto as part of the National Active School Streets Initiative, a program funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada and led by Green Communities Canada #TorontoSchoolStreets #Safety #VisionZero #RightToMobility

Three children with backpacks walk along a quiet residential street in Toronto during a School Streets initiative.

Community members and children gather on a car-free street outside a school during a School Streets program event.

Children playing and walking on a quiet street with text highlighting benefits of School Streets like safety and air quality.

Children playing outdoors with cardboard structures and foam noodles on a sunny autumn day.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

The 8 80 Cities August Newsletter is now out! 🔗Read it here: ow.ly/LrhL50ZHsUP #880Cities #CreatingCitiesForAll #20Years

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

This past July, Toronto became a gathering place for people from around the world to attend the long-awaited FIFA World Cup. As we reflected on the impacts of the games, we invited David Roberts to discuss how the games affected the way we use public spaces.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Did you know that in the past year there were 11 School Streets programs implemented in Canada? 🔗 Read the full story here: www.880cities.org/a-collaborative-e… #880Cities #NewBlog #NASSI #SchoolStreets

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

Hey Ontario! There are less than 24 hours left until applications close for the Ontario Community Changemakers program for 2026. Don't miss your chance at $5000 and the skills to ignite change in your community! This is the final boarding call! Applications close Today, at 5:00 pm EDT. Apply Now!

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

📢 We have another call for volunteers! With the new Church Street Pedestrianization Pilot, 8 80 Cities is looking for volunteers to participate in a public life study. Interested volunteers should complete the following Sign Up form to indicate their availability: 🔗https://signup.com/go/WZnbPhs

signup.com

Church Street Pedestrianization PLS

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

The 8 80 Cities July Newsletter is here! Don't miss this curated collection of excellent articles, videos, podcasts, and resources on cities and placemaking, plus upcoming events! Read it here: ow.ly/GGKF50Zuwxw #880Cities #20Years #CreatingCitiesForAll #July #Newsletter

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

It's the last week to apply to 2026 Ontario Community Changemakers program! Don't miss your chance at $5000 and the opportunity to create change in your community. Got a bold idea? Apply now at: www.ontariocommunitychangemakers.org/apply-now/ #OCChangemakers #socialinclusion #civicengagement

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Looking for inspiration as you submit your application to OCC? Check out the features from our blog! 🔗 www.ontariocommunitychangemakers.org/occ-blog/ #OCChangemakers #socialinclusion #civicengagement #publicspace

Laptop screen showing the OCC Blog homepage featuring stories and projects by Ontario Changemakers with a call to action to read more.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Third on the 20-year anniversary series, 8 80 Cities' Founder and Chair, Gil Peñalosa, reflects on his lifelong work to advancing people-centred cities and why he founded 8 80. 🔗Read it here:https://www.880cities.org/an-interview-with-gil-penalosa-founder-and-chair-8-80-cities/

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Following on from the 20-year series, 8 80 Cities' Comms Manager, Camila Uriona, reflects on various aspects of the mighty 8 80 Team. 🔗Read it here: ow.ly/8Hf450ZqcYP

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

As part of 8 80 Cities' 20th anniversary celebrations, we are thrilled to share our new Blog Series: 8 80 Cities, 20 Years of Creating Cities for All. Read the first of the series here 🔗https://www.880cities.org/for-the-love-of-cities-and-a-celebration-of-the-power-of-people-places-and-imagination/

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

📢 Call for Volunteers! Interested volunteers should complete the following Sign Up form to indicate their availability: 🔗https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/86230655605/false#/invitation For more information, send us an email at volunteer@880cities.org #880Cities #MelLastmanSquare

Schedule for Public Life Study volunteers showing shifts on July 24, 25, and 28 at Mel Lastman Square with morning and evening slots.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Apply Now! Only a few days left to join a supportive and inspiring network of changemakers across Ontario. What’s your idea to improve your community? Applications are due on Monday, Juy 31st at 5:00 PM (ET). Powered by 8 80 Cities and funded by Balsam Foundation.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 18/07/2026

Today on World Parks Day, we’re celebrating the parks, forests, and green spaces that connect us to nature and each other. 🌱 Today, let's celebrate our parks not only by enjoying them, but by committing to protect them. 💚🤝 #WorldParksDay #880Cities

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

This is your moment. ⏳ The Ontario Community Changemakers program is here to help you turn your vision into reality—with $5000 in funding and the support to make meaningful change. 🚀 Applications are now open. Don’t wait—start something powerful in your community today!

Countdown showing 15 days remaining to submit an application with a bold red circle background.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

The Ontario Community Changemakers program is a platform for Ontario residents to spark new ideas and invigorate change in their local communities. #OCChangemakers has already have an impact on 120 Ontarians. Are you in? Apply by Friday, July 31, 2026 by 5:00 pm EST.

Group of diverse people gathered outdoors with text highlighting 120 changemakers selected by Ontario Community Changemakers from 2021-2025.

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

Changemakers join a supportive and inspiring network of peers from across Ontario. Participants receive ongoing guidance from experts in diverse fields such as planning, design, marketing and more. Apply now to this unique opportunity! Deadline is July 31st, 5:00 pm EST.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

This July, 8 80 Cities is measuring how people move and engage with public spaces across the GTA, and we're looking for volunteer researchers! Sign-up for shifts through the links in our bio or email volunteer@880cities.org for more details.

Looking for volunteer researchers, showing July shifts and locations in Toronto, North York, and Mississauga for 880 Cities Public Life Studies.

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Are you eligible? Make sure that you check your elligbility here: ontariocommunitychangemakers.org/ap…

Checklist of eligibility criteria including age 19+, Ontario residency, studio availability, and community-focused project with group meeting photo.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

8 80 Cities is creating a launchpad for innovators and placemakers that reflects the diversity of people and geography of this province. From small towns and big cities, to First Nations Territories, all applications are welcome. Apply today at ontariocommunitychangemakers.org/ap…

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

Didn't have time to tune in for the #OCChangemakers Info Session last week? Here is the recording with all the questions answered! Watch here: youtu.be/sAkqzNh86hw Apply now! Deadline: July 31st, 2026, 5:00 pm EDT.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

8 80 Cities is a partner on the Church Street Pedestrian Pilot project, part of "Experience the Village". We're conducting Public Life Studies (PLS) to gather data about the experience of the street. Interested in volunteering? Sign up here www.880cities.org/volunteer-church-… #PLS

Two women engaged in a pedestrian survey on Church Street as part of a pilot project for pedestrianization.

Two men stand on a city sidewalk near stone steps, one holding a clipboard while the other carries a cup.

Group of five people standing outside a brick building at night, engaged in conversation and holding papers near parked bicycles.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

Happy Pride Month! 🌈 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ At 8 80 Cities, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, welcome, included, and celebrated in their communities. 🎉Looking for ways to celebrate Pride in Toronto? Check out their event calendar to explore Pride events across the city: www.pridetoronto.com

Hands holding various LGBTQ+ pride flags beneath colorful circles with bold text saying Happy Pride Month.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

Hey Ontario! Want to learn more about the OCC program? Join the 8 80 Cities team live THIS WEDNESDAY (June 24) at 1:00 pm EDT for the OCC Info Session. Register in advance here: Applications close July 31, 2026. Ready to apply? Visit ontariocommunitychangemakers.org

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

OCC seeks applicants with innovative mindsets from diverse backgrounds. We are looking for project ideas that fall within the following themes: 1. Activating Public Space 2. Enhancing Civic Engagement 3. Fostering Social Inclusion Applications close July 31, 2026 at 5 PM EDT.

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 21/06/2026

Today is #NationalIndigenousPeoplesDay. This is a time to recognize and celebrate the traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. At 8 80, we acknowledge partnerships with Indigenous-led organizations by including them in our projects.

Colorful gradient background with white line art of a narwhal playing a stringed instrument, celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21.

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

Have questions about applying to #OCChangemakers? Join the OCC team at 8 80 Cities for an Info Session on June 24, 2026 at 1:00 pm EDT. us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/32… Ready to Apply? Visit: ontariocommunitychangemakers.org

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

SAVE THE DATE! Learn more about the OCC program and ask questions about the application process. Join us on June 24th, 2026 at 1:00 pm EDT. Register in advance here: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/32… Apply at: ontariocommunitychangemakers.org.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

At 8 80 Cities, we believe cities should work for everyone: from 8 to 80. During Seniors Loneliness Awareness Week, we recognize the impact of social isolation on older adults and the importance of connection, belonging, and support to help seniors thrive in our communities. 💛

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

Happy Seniors Month! We’re celebrating the amazing older adults in our lives and communities. This year’s theme, “Ontario Seniors—Let’s Get Moving,” reflects our commitment to wellness, social connection, and inclusive public spaces where people of all ages can thrive. 🌟 #SeniorsMonth2026

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

8 80 Cities Project Manager, Tennesha Joseph attended the School Food for All: Nourishing Futures Forum in MTRL as part of the panel "It’s All About the Kids: Co-Designing School Food Programs" representing our Growing Healthy Places: Mississauga project with Maleah Omari (from our partner Ophea).

Speaker presenting on co-designing with schools and communities to an attentive audience in a conference room.

Two women with conference badges stand behind a podium at Palais des congrès de Montréal, one seated with a laptop and microphone.

8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 11/06/2026

🎉It's #InternationalDayOfPlay.🤾🏽‍♀️ At #880Cities, we believe in the power of play as a powerful tool for learning, connection, creativity, and belonging. And it's for all ages and abilities! 🤸‍♀️Today, enjoy playing with fam & friends! Learn more about play in our projects at www.880cities.org:

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 10/06/2026

Ontario Changemakers receive $5,000 to implement one community project within a year. Projects must support public space, civic engagement, or social inclusion in Ontario or First Nations territories. Apply by July 31 at 5:00 p.m. EDT.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

🚲Happy Bike Month! At #880Cities, we believe in the #RightToMobility, in other words, the freedom to move around, whenever and wherever! There's no better time to dust off your bike, explore a new route and experience your city on two wheels.

Women riding bikes in urban and suburban environments.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

The OCC program is open to residents of Ontario, 19+ years with a creative solution to public space, civic engagement and/or social inclusion challenges. We encourage those from Indigenous, Black, and racialized communities, and 2SLGBTQI+ to apply by July 31, 5:00 pm EDT.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

🌎Happy #WorldEnvironmentDay! 🍃This #WorldEnvironmentDay, we’re celebrating active mobility, the power of public spaces and community action in building a greener future for all! 💭What’s one change you’d like to see in your community that would make it more sustainable? #880Cities #NowForClimate

Text reading 'Happy World Environment Day' with a globe showing North and South America and a message promoting greener, healthier cities.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

🎉Happy #WorldBicycleDay 2026! 🚲At 8 80 Cities, we believe in the #RightToMobility— because everyone deserves to move through their city safely and accessibly. From 8 to 80, streets should work for everyone. Enjoy your ride today! #880Cities

Children and adults cycling and walking along a green bike lane in a busy urban area.

A busy city street filled with people walking and children riding bicycles on a sunny day.

Group of cyclists riding through a city street lined with tall buildings on a clear day.

Group of cyclists riding along a city street with buses and historic buildings in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

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8 80 Cities @880cities.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

🪶It's #NIHM202. 8 80 Cities honours the land on which we are situated & are committed to reconciliation: 📚 Embracing continuous learning and unlearning 🤝🏼 Building authentic, reciprocal partnerships 🏙️ Co-creating inclusive, intergenerational public spaces that reflect Indigenous knowledge &presence

An image featuring intertwined illustrated symbols representing First Nations, Inuit and Métis: a feather, a narwhal and a fiddle, rendered in a flowing rainbow gradient. Surrounding these central symbols are decorative elements representing other aspects of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures.

Text:
National Indigenous History Month
#NIHM2026