Community Connect - February 2026 WRCF e-newsletter

Community Connect - February 2026
February 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.

Danielle Deveau and panelists Jay Harrison, Jeyas Balaskanthan, and Nathan Stretch,  seated on a stage with "Community by Design: Social Infrastructure in Waterloo Region" projected behind them. Eric Avner stands at the podium speaking

Blog: Community. By Design and By Choice.

WRCF recently partnered with Kitchener Public Library and Midtown Radio to host a launch event for a new podcast series focused on social infrastructure. WRCF’s President & CEO, Eric Avner, reflects on the event in his recent blog, highlighting some of the themes that came from the session.

Read more

Share your local photos with us!

Man in hat holding camera

WRCF is looking for photos taken in Waterloo Region to include in the materials and reports we develop. In 2026, WRCF is seeking images that showcase social infrastructure across Waterloo Region.

Photos are being accepted until February 25, 2026.
Learn more and submit your photos
Community by Design podcast graphic

Community by Design Episode 1 - More Than Books: Building Community at the Library

WRCF and Midtown Radio have launched a new podcast series, focused on social infrastructure in Waterloo Region. In episode 1, host Jay Harrison chats with Troy Glover, Nathan Stretch, and Cristina McLaren.
Read our blog on episode 1
Listen to the podcast
Applications for WRCF grant streams opening soon

Annually, WRCF distributes Arts Grants, Community Grants, and Racial Equity Grants. In 2026, all three grant streams are focused on strengthening social infrastructure across Waterloo Region to support members of our communities now and in the future.

Applications open February 23, 2026

Gone but never forgotten: John Pollock

Image of John Pollock
Over 90 years of his remarkable life, John Pollock prioritized giving back to many charitable organizations through his time, talent, and treasure. We are especially grateful for the impact John made as a founding member of Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation, playing a significant role in WRCF’s history.
 
Although John passed away on January 12, 2026, his legacy as a philanthropist will continue through annual grants made from the Pollock Family Fund, held at WRCF (established in 2000).
Read more about his life

Signs of Success: Why Connection and Social Infrastructure Matter for Business Growth in Waterloo Region

WRCF's President & CEO, Eric Avner, was recently featured in the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce's January / February edition of the Chamber Advocate.

Click here to read the article

STRENGTH AND STABILITY: Habitat Waterloo Region’s latest housing project leans heavily on partnerships

Images of team members on site of Shantz Hill Road standing outside infront of large board in the daytime
Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region has been providing affordable homeownership opportunities for more than three decades. Their latest building project on Shantz Hill Road in Cambridge will provide more families with the opportunity to experience the benefits of homeownership. WRCF was pleased to support this project through an impact investment.
Read more
Gillian Deacon: A Love Affair with the Unknown
Award-winning author and broadcaster, Gill Deacon, visits Kitchener Public Library on March 3, 2026, to discuss her new book, A Love Affair with the Unknown. This event is supported by WRCF.
Click here to register

Black History Month events

February is Black History Month. Throughout February, people across Canada honor the legacy, resilience, and achievements of Black communities. Below are some activities happening in our community, and we encourage you to keep an eye out for more events linked to Black History Month, and participate if possible. 
February 21, 2026
Film Screening of John Lewis: Good Trouble

(Congress of Black Women of Canada - Waterloo Region Chapter)
March 21, 2026
16th Annual Traditional Pow Wow

(Conestoga College)
WRCF makes it easy for you to do more good—connecting your generosity with local impact that lasts. Contact dan@wrcf.ca to talk about setting up a fund or supporting our community-driven initiatives.
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Questions?
Contact us at info@wrcf.ca or 519-725-1806

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Community by Design Episode 1 - More Than Books: Building Community at the Library