This October, we hosted a series of youth camps bringing together students from middle school to high school — all filled with laughter, learning, and connection. From reading circles and movie nights to seminars, crafts, puzzles, and sharing sessions, every camp created beautiful moments of friendship and growth. Our mentors guided the participants through inspiring...
We are launching a knitting workshop to make winter gift packs for our unhoused neighbours. Thursdays: Nov 6, 13, 20 • 11:30 AM–1:00 PM Location: GRFS We’ll make: scarves, hats, gloves All skill levels welcome! Tea & snacks • No RSVP • Volunteer hours available
On October 24th, our youth had a wonderful opportunity to join the Indigenous and Newcomers Gathering organized by Hope Engel. It was an inspiring evening filled with connection, learning, and shared experiences. Hope’s perspective, her life stories, and her vision for the future opened new horizons for us. We truly enjoyed spending time together and...
On October 23, we were honored to host Izzy Li, Newcomer Gender-Based Violence Legal Advocate from the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region. Izzy provided an informative presentation for our community members on Legal Rights and available supports. We sincerely thank her for joining us and for sharing such valuable knowledge with our community.
We open our 2025–26 Read & Watch Series with a warm, welcoming circle on women, identity, and becoming—why who we are (and who we’re becoming) matters for our dreams, dignity, and daily life. Fridays, 6–8 PM • Conrad Grebel College
Today, as Grand River Friendship Society, we had a wonderful breakfast gathering with the Uyghur community. We would like to sincerely thank Gulshen Abdukadir for inviting and warmly hosting us. It was a great opportunity to discuss future collaborations and explore meaningful projects we can work on together. We’re happy to share that we reached...
Diwali reminds us that light overcomes darkness and that community grows when we show up for one another. Yesterday evening, representatives of the Grand River Friendship Society visited the Brahmarishi Mission of Canada and the Shri Ram Dham Hindu Temple to extend our greetings during their Diwali celebrations. We sincerely thank Swami Chaityanya Jyoti and...
Join us for a welcoming, practical “Know Your Rights” session with Izzy Li, Newcomer Gender-Based Violence Legal Advocate from the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region (SASC). Wednesday, 22 October • ⏰ 6:00 PM 1117 Snyder’s Rd E, Baden, ON N3A 3L2 Knowing your rights helps you stay safe, support friends, and access services...
On October 18, the first anniversary of his passing, our community gathered to honor Fethullah Gülen Hocaefendi—remembering a life dedicated to knowledge, education, and serving humanity. His example reminds us that learning and kindness are powerful ways to build a better world. The evening opened with a Qur’an recitation that invited calm and reflection. A...
A heart-warming October 17 gathering at the Grand River Friendship Society brought neighbours, newcomers, seniors, and friends together to celebrate gratitude—the glue that strengthens community and deepens our sense of belonging. When gratitude moves our hands—cooking a meal, listening with care, showing up for one another—thanks becomes action. That’s Love in motion. Love is a...
