Démarche d’évaluation participative de projets en sécurité alimentaire : le cas du Laboratoire d’agriculture urbaine et de proximité (Labor-AT) en Abitibi-Témiscamingue

Abstract

This paper is a participative evaluation of the implementation and governance process of a pilot project in food security by the Laboratoire d’agriculture urbaine et de proximité (Labor-AT) (an urban agriculture laboratory), that is active in the Abitibi MRC (regional county municipality), in Quebec, Canada. Evaluation tools were tested, such as “Faire le point sur les conditions de succès du projet” by the Institut national de santé publique du Québec and an analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). The main findings reveal the time required to develop a common vocabulary and to define a goal and common objectives that allow organizations to actively get involved in collective interests. The complementary strengths of the project coordination committee, the partnerships and the collaboration with various organizations to reach citizens, as well as the support of the local public health professionals, allow to efficiently govern the project. To achieve this, it is essential to identify clear communication channels in a multiple actors context. In conclusion, this participative evaluation process allowed to identify apprenticeships and conditions for success, in a community development perspective.