Yesterday, we had an amazing time at our second cooking class where 32 participants came together to explore the rich flavors of Tatar cuisine! 🥟 We made uchpuchmak, a delicious pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and onions, and learned about its cultural significance. This gathering wasn’t just about food—it was about creating connections, sharing stories,...
Migration and adapting to new homelands have been significant challenges throughout history, and they remain relevant today. Together with esteemed scholar Reşit Haylamaz, we will explore how the lessons of Islamic history—particularly the transformative experiences from the Age of Bliss—can guide us in navigating modern challenges of integration and coexistence. Let’s come together to rediscover...
We are excited to introduce the exceptional individuals driving the vision and mission of the Grand River Friendship Society forward. This diverse and talented team is committed to fostering community connection, intercultural understanding, and inclusivity. New Board Members: • Selim Budak – Chair • Muhammed Fethullah Gunes – Vice Chair • Kerem Ertabak – Treasurer...
A huge thank you to Stepping Stone for an incredible collaboration this holiday season! 💙 Together with the Grand River Friendship Society, we delivered Christmas gift bags filled with socks, mittens, hats, and, most importantly, love, to the Guelph community. This partnership reminds us that love is a verb – it’s about taking meaningful actions...
Join us on Jan 22 at 6 PM at Kitchener Public Library – Central for a special FREE screening of the award-winning documentary Love is a Verb. This inspiring film, directed by Terry Spencer Hesser, explores the global social movement inspired by Fethullah Gülen that promotes empathy, education, and interfaith dialogue. Narrated by Ashley Judd,...
We were honored to welcome the wonderful members of Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church (SAMC) to the new campus of Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS) during our monthly Free Saturday Meals event. The day was filled with warmth, heartfelt conversations, and a shared spirit of togetherness. This visit was a fantastic opportunity to share GRFS’s mission,...
Our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires in California. May those impacted find strength, safety, and comfort in the days ahead. We also offer this prayer: “May Allah (SWT) protect the victims and grant them ease in these difficult times. May they find support, relief, and peace, and may...
We had the pleasure of hosting Kitchener Centre Green Party MP Mike Morrice today at the Grand River Friendship Society campus in Baden! It was a wonderful and productive meeting where our board members warmly welcomed him, and we had the opportunity to discuss exciting future projects. Mike Morrice shared his positive impressions of GRFS’s...
🌿 This morning, we were honored to host Ontario Green Party MPP Aislinn Clancy at the Grand River Friendship Society campus in Baden. Board members and youth club participants warmly welcomed her during a delightful traditional Turkish breakfast. 🥐☕ Together, we shared ideas, explored future collaboration, and reaffirmed our commitment to building a stronger, more...
This month at the Grand River Friendship Society Cooking Class, we’re diving into Tatar cuisine and making Uchpuchmak—savory triangle pastries filled with meat and potatoes. 🥟 Join us for a fun, hands-on experience where you’ll learn how to create this delicious traditional dish, connect with others, and share stories over great food! 📅 Date: January...
