THUNDER BAY — May 1, 2025 — What makes Thunder Bay great? That’s the question the City is asking residents as it kicks off a new community storytelling contest designed to capture the heart of local pride, identity, and forward-thinking optimism.
Open to individuals and groups of all ages, the initiative invites participants to submit short written reflections on why they love Thunder Bay today and what gives it promise for tomorrow. Submissions could be selected for inclusion in the City’s Smart Growth Action Plan, featured on city platforms, or used in promotional campaigns down the road.
“We know Thunder Bay has incredible stories of pride and possibility,” said City Manager John Collin. “This campaign is about capturing those stories and celebrating the spirit of our community as we plan for Smart Growth and a strong future.”
How to Enter
Participants can share their story — up to 250 words — through one of three ways:
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Online at thunderbay.ca/getinvolved
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By email to great@thunderbay.ca
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In person at City Hall
Youth entries must be submitted by a parent or guardian. All entries will be entered into a prize draw, with three age categories:
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Children & Youth (17 and under)
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Young Adult/Student (18–25)
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Adult (26 and older)
One Grand Prize Winner will have their full story published in the Smart Growth Action Plan and will receive the Ultimate City of Thunder Bay Prize Pack, featuring local experiences and City program passes.
The deadline to enter is June 1, 2025.
Smart Growth Strategy at the Core
This campaign is part of Thunder Bay’s broader Smart Growth engagement strategy — a citywide effort to gather community input on how to shape a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future.
“These stories help us understand what matters most to residents,” said Collin. “And they inspire the kind of city we want to build together.”
For full details or to share your story, visit thunderbay.ca/getinvolved.
