With just today left to go in the first phase of the Identity project, Red Deerians are encouraged to put on their detective hats and share their sleuthing skills about what makes the city unique.

Residents can provide their input to questions at www.reddeer.ca/identity or www.UncoverRedDeer.com until July 31, as part of the project that aims to uncover Red Deer’s authentic identity and build a community story.

“Some common themes are definitely starting to emerge as to what makes Red Deer tick,” said Julia Harvie-Shemko, director of communications & strategic planning. “The questions have made Red Deerians stop and think about what they truly like about where they live, and what makes us unique. Residents and non-residents alike have had great things to say about the city.”

The full online survey has so far garnered nearly 400 responses, while an additional 900 responses have been collected by the Identity team, who have used iPads to ask quick questions at several events since consultation launched in early April. After July 31, the responses will be compiled and analysed for common threads about Red Deer’s character, and a narrative – or community story – will be written.

While time is running out for this first, “uncovering” phase, there will still be plenty of time to weigh in on Red Deer’s identity. The second, “validating” phase will see the Identity team revisit the public to confirm the accuracy of what was heard. The final, “revealing” phase will publicly share Red Deer’s authentic community story.

“It’s important we hear from as many people as possible,” said Harvie-Shemko. “Our city has a diverse population, and as we connect with more members of the community, we get a better sense of Red Deer’s personality and a clearer picture of what we all value.”

For more information on the Identity project or to fill out the survey, visit www.reddeer.ca/identity or www.UncoverRedDeer.com.

-Weber