NEWS RELEASE
OUR KIDS NETWORK
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The Our Kids Network (OKN) Data Portal 2.0 is marking its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of empowering communities with local data to drive positive change for children, youth, and families. As a trusted resource, the portal has evolved into a dynamic tool that helps users explore Halton-specific insights through interactive visualizations, maps, and charts.
Have you ever wondered how children and youth are doing in Halton? Or are you curious about the needs and strengths of families across Halton’s diverse neighbourhoods?
“The OKN Data Portal provides a wealth of Halton-specific data, from census statistics to indicators of child and youth well-being. Data is more than just numbers — it’s about asking questions, telling stories, and inspiring action. The portal transforms raw data into meaningful insights through customizable maps, charts, and graphs, making it easier to turn information into impact.” Elisabeth Wells, OKN Executive Director.
Over the past decade, the OKN Data Portal has highlighted valuable community trends. For example, Halton’s youth population grew by 26 per cent between 2011 and 2021, with Milton’s more than doubling. Meanwhile, the percentage of children who are physically active every day rose from 33 per cent in 2015 to 61 per cent in 2023, showcasing the region’s progress in fostering healthier habits for kids. The Data Portal also sheds light on evolving community dynamics, such as the rise in newcomer populations and shifting levels of neighborhood cohesion, equipping organizations with the knowledge they need to adapt and respond.
“The OKN Data Portal is a game changer for professionals and organizations in Halton,” says Bruna Redoschi, OKN Research Associate. “You can quickly download tables, customize maps, charts, and graphs, and even map your own data—all in just a few steps. Whether you’re looking for data to support a funding application or planning evidence-based programs and services to drive change, the Data Portal has you covered.”
Looking to get started? The OKN team offers online tutorials and hands-on workshops to help you navigate the portal’s many features. Whether you’re exploring population trends, tracking youth well-being indicators, or mapping out service areas, the Data Portal makes data discovery simple and accessible.
Visit the Data Portal at www.okndataportal.ca or email Edward Cheung at: [email protected] to book your free session.
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