Community Connect - August 2026 WRCF e-newsletter

Community Connect - August 2026
August 2026                                                                View this email in your browser
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WRCF’s monthly e-newsletter to keep you connected to granting information, investing, what’s new, and ways we are mobilizing and collaborating to make an impact in our community.

Blog: When the Rituals Disappear

With the Kitchener Market building closed after a fire and 570 NewsRadio's midmorning show displaced, WRCF's President and CEO Eric Avner reflects on what these losses mean beyond the practical. At stake are the quiet rhythms and familiar routines that turn shared spaces into real community.

Some needs can be met elsewhere. But the sense of belonging that comes from showing up in the same place, week after week, is much harder to replace.
Read more

Applications now open!

WRCF has funding streams currently accepting applications. Click the links below for more information on eligibility requirements and how to apply: 

Meet the new members of WRCF’s Board of Directors

WRCF relies on the leadership of our Board of Directors to support our vision of ensuring our communities are equitable, connected, and sustainable; and people are thriving, to oversee our strategic direction, and to guide us toward lasting, meaningful impact. We are pleased to announce our new Board Chair, Vice Chair, and newest members of our Board of Directors.
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Recent press announcement

July 8, 2026
$1.84 million provided to 97 local organizations through WRCF’s grant streams focused on social infrastructure.
Read more
WRCF and Midtown Radio have launched a podcast series focused on social infrastructure in Waterloo Region. In episode 5, host Jay Harrison chats with Kim Fowler, Chanelle Martin, and Sam Nabi.
Read our blog on episode 5
Listen to the podcast

Equipping, empowering and welcoming newcomers in Waterloo Region  

The African Women's Alliance of Waterloo Region's Advocate Yourself – Our Health in Our Hands program provides weekly training on topics like financial literacy, cultural competency, gender-based violence awareness, and perinatal health support. The program was supported through WRCF’s Racial Equity Fund and two WRCF Fundholders.
Read more

For MNP, charitable giving is ‘part of our values’

MNP has nearly 10,000 employees from coast-to-coast, but their commitment to giving back stays deeply local. In 2025, they established the MNP Community Fund at WRCF to support the ever-changing needs in our community. 

“It’s part of our values and our way of doing things” -- Rohit Aggarwal, MNP’s Regional Managing Partner in Waterloo Region
 
Read more

Cambridge Elects: 2026 municipal election town halls

WRCF is pleased to support Cambridge Elects, a neutral, non-partisan community initiative focused on Cambridge’s 2026 municipal election.

In September, Cambridge Elects will host 10 public town halls, one in each ward, plus Regional Councillor and Mayoral town halls to help residents hear directly from candidates before they vote. Residents can attend in person, watch live on YouTube or view recordings afterward. 
Learn more
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Questions?
Contact us at info@wrcf.ca or 519-725-1806

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Waterloo Region Community Foundation
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Kitchener, ON N2G 1A3
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When the Rituals Disappear