On July 25, 2026, Young Professionals Waterloo Region (YPWR) collaborated with The Compass Refugee Centre to bring teens and parents together for a warm and welcoming community potluck.
The gathering offered families an opportunity to step away from their everyday routines, share a meal, meet new people, and build meaningful connections in a relaxed and supportive environment.
The purpose of the event was simple but meaningful: to create a space where young people and their parents could feel welcomed, connected, and part of a community. For newcomer families and others building new connections in the region, a sense of belonging can often begin with something as simple as sharing food, conversation, and experiences around the same table.
The event also created opportunities for teens to meet peers, parents to connect with other families, and participants to build relationships that can continue beyond a single gathering. Through informal conversation and shared experiences, families were able to learn from one another and strengthen their connection to the wider community.
We are grateful to The Compass Refugee Centre for collaborating with us and to all the families, parents, teens, and community members who contributed to the welcoming atmosphere.
Events like this remind us that community building does not always require a formal program or a large stage. Sometimes, it begins with food, conversation, laughter, and simply creating space for people to come together.
Young Professionals Waterloo Region (YPWR) | Grand River Friendship Society