In this episode of United Voices, we sit down with Tara Bedard, Executive Director of Immigration Partnership, to explore how Waterloo Region is supporting newcomers as they settle, work, and belong.

Tara shares insight into why building a strong network of services is critical for immigrant success — and why, even amid federal cuts to permanent resident targets, supporting immigrants matters now more than ever.

This conversation highlights the power of welcome, community collaboration, and the collective role we all play in helping new Canadians thrive.

In this episode of United Voices, we speak with Robin Heald, Executive Director of the Child Witness Centre, to explore the organization’s vital role in supporting children and youth navigating the justice system after abuse or violence. Robin also shares her own powerful personal story - a moving reminder of why this work matters.

To learn more about the Child Witness Centre and they work they do visit childwitness.com.

To hear Robin’s story you can watch her CBC Documentary at https://tr.ee/u3IVYa

In this special double length episode of United Voices, we shine a light on the intersection of housing, humanity, and community with special guest Cameron Dearlove, Executive Director of Porchlight. Cameron shares his personal journey into community work and the bold vision behind Porchlight’s efforts to tackle housing instability and build lasting support systems in Waterloo Region. From the challenges of systemic inequity to the power of local partnerships, this conversation highlights the critical work being done to ensure everyone has a place to call home and a community that cares.

In this episode of United Voices, we speak with Chris Prosser, Executive Director of The Literacy Group of Waterloo Region. Chris shares how adult literacy, numeracy, and digital skills are essential tools for equity and inclusion and how The Literacy Group is helping people build the confidence and skills they need to thrive. Whether it’s reading to a grandchild, filling out a job application, or navigating a digital world, the ability to learn and adapt opens doors to a brighter future. Tune in to hear how literacy connects us all and how you can help support lifelong learning in our community. For all information about our programs, visit http://theliteracygroup.com

In this special Pride Month episode of United Voices, we sit down with Bryan Causarano-Bolton, co-founder of Grand River Pride. From its beginnings as a small drag show in Cambridge to becoming a major force for LGBTQ+ celebration and support across the region, Grand River Pride is helping to build safer, more joyful, and more inclusive communities. Bryan shares the story behind the movement, the power of joy in the face of adversity, and how we can all get involved.

In this episode of United Voices, we speak with Jennifer Hutton, CEO of Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region, about how healing from trauma often begins with compassion and a safe environment. Jennifer shares how their innovative music therapy program is helping women and children recovering from domestic violence rebuild their confidence, express emotion, and find moments of peace. We also highlight the incredible impact of a $20,000 donation from Women United, which has helped sustain this powerful.

In this powerful episode of United Voices, we speak with Andrea Ferguson, Executive Director of oneROOF Youth Services, about the realities of youth homelessness in Waterloo Region. Andrea sheds light on the growing crisis, the systemic challenges young people face, and the crucial role oneROOF plays in helping youth aged 12 to 25 find stability, shelter, and a path forward. From emergency services to long-term housing and wraparound support, oneROOF is more than a shelter, it is a launchpad for brighter futures. Discover how you can be part of the solution.

In this episode of United Voices, we sit down with Wayne Paddick, Executive Director of Cambridge Shelter Corporation. Wayne is a true community leader, dedicated to addressing homelessness with compassion and innovation. We discuss how Cambridge Shelter Corp and other organizations are evolving to support mental health, housing stability, and community integration. We learn about how their social enterprise, In Our Backyard, is providing meaningful employment opportunities to help individuals move forward in life. Tune in to hear about resilience, innovation, and hope—and how your support makes a difference every day.