Community Connect - October 2025 WRCF e-newsletter

Community Connect - October 2025
October 2025                                                                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: What a Whirlwind Month Taught Me About Connection

It’s been a busy few weeks at WRCF. From the launch of our 2025 Vital Signs® Report to new ways to “give where you live.” In his latest blog, WRCF’s President & CEO Eric Avner reflects on how these moments all share a common thread: building stronger connections and a deeper sense of belonging across Waterloo Region.

Read more

Give Where You Live. Help Build a Stronger Waterloo Region.

WRCF has partnered with eight local organizations to launch WRGive, an online giving platform that connects you directly with projects making an impact on social infrastructure.

Whether you give $10, $100, or $1,000, your support helps build a region where everyone feels like they belong.
Learn more and donate

Do More Good Dialogue Recording: Strengthening Our Community Through Connections

On September 18, 2025, WRCF hosted an in-person Do More Good Dialogue: Strengthening Our Community Through Connections. Our President & CEO, Eric Avner and Pete Bombaci of Genwell: The Human Connection Movement, spoke about the power of connection and dove into the themes from Waterloo Region’s 2025 Vital Signs® Report. This event also featured the presentation of several WRCF Community Awards. Click below to watch a recording of the event.

2025 Awards

From left to right: Sam Nabi, Tara Ross, Eric G. Martin (artist), Eric Avner (WRCF President & CEO), Eric Strassburger, Stephanie Soulis (Little Mushroom Catering & Dining Lounge).
In September 2025, following a call to the community for nominations, WRCF recognized three individuals and one company whose exemplary volunteerism and contributions to local communities have made a positive impact in Waterloo Region. We are pleased to share the recipients of those awards, and some of the ways they have provided support.
Read more

Waterloo Region’s 2025 Vital Signs® Report 

WRCF has researched and created the 2025 Waterloo Region Vital Signs® Report, focused on social infrastructure. The report brings together data, insights, and lived experiences to show where the social infrastructure in our region is thriving and where gaps remain.
Read and download the report

‘FROM THE STAGE TO THE AUDIENCE’: Two-Minute Play Laboratory applied theatre project brings lived experience to the forefront

The Two-Minute Play Laboratory is a theatrical workshop focused on creating and performing short, concise plays that explore various theatrical techniques and foster ongoing dialogue. WRCF was happy to support this project through our Arts Fund.
Read more

GIVING PEOPLE A CHANCE: Ted Paling Legacy Fund aims to help vulnerable youth and families

Ted Paling was a family man and spent his life helping vulnerable people in his community. When he passed unexpectedly in March 2024, his family established the Ted Paling Legacy Fund, which will honour his life and continue his work of supporting youth and families in need.
Read more

ToastyToes Waterloo Region 2025 Campaign (Oct 10 - Dec 10)

The 2025 ToastyToes Waterloo Region fundraising campaign kicked off on October 10, 2025. Donations to the ToastyToes Waterloo Region Fund help organizations purchase socks for people who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness. By donating the cost of a package of socks, instead of donating physical socks, together we can warm hearts and toes across our region.
 
Learn more and donate
Giving through WRCF means your impact stays local, is built to last, and comes with expert support every step of the way. Contact dan@wrcf.ca to learn about how we make it easy for people to do more good.
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Questions?
Contact us at info@wrcf.ca or 519-725-1806

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Blog: What a Whirlwind Month Taught Me About Connection