This historic achievement is a moment of pride for Kitchener and the entire Waterloo Region. The Rangers’ success reflects dedication, discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and the strong community spirit that continues to inspire people across our region.

As an organization serving families, youth, newcomers, and diverse communities throughout Waterloo Region, GRFS recognizes the power of sport to bring people together, strengthen local pride, and inspire the next generation.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Kitchener Rangers players, coaches, staff, volunteers, fans, and the entire organization on this outstanding accomplishment.

Congratulations, Kitchener Rangers. Waterloo Region is proud of you!

The post Kitchener Rangers’ Historic Memorial Cup Success appeared first on GRFS.

This initiative will provide free artificial intelligence and data science learning opportunities to more than 1,200 youth across the Region of Waterloo, helping young people develop digital skills, critical thinking abilities, and confidence to explore future STEM pathways.

Through hands-on workshops, mentorship, AI demonstrations, and career exploration activities, we will work to make emerging technologies more accessible and inclusive for youth from all backgrounds.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Scale AI for investing in the next generation of innovators and helping create greater access to STEM education for young people in our communities.

Together, we are building a future where every young person has the opportunity to explore, learn, and thrive in the digital age.

www.scaleai.ca 

The post Scale AI Support for AI Explorers+ Youth Data Science Project appeared first on GRFS.

The program created a welcoming and heartfelt atmosphere where community members had the opportunity to connect, celebrate, and strengthen friendships. With people from different cultural backgrounds coming together, the gathering beautifully reflected the spirit of unity, belonging, and togetherness that GRFS values deeply.

Children enjoyed many cheerful and engaging activities throughout the event, creating joyful moments and lasting memories for families. The celebration was not only a festive gathering, but also a meaningful opportunity to reinforce friendship, build community bonds, and share the joy of Eid in an inclusive environment.

We were also pleased to welcome Eda Dede, who attended the program on behalf of MPP Aislinn Clancy. We sincerely appreciate their presence and support.

Grand River Friendship Society thanks all participants, volunteers, families, and community members who contributed to making this program warm, inclusive, and memorable.

At GRFS, we are grateful for every opportunity to bring people together and build a community rooted in kindness, respect, friendship, and belonging.

Eid Mubarak!

The post Eid al-Adha Community Gathering & Children’s Festival appeared first on GRFS.

May this special occasion bring peace, gratitude, generosity, and togetherness to our families and communities. Eid reminds us of the importance of care, compassion, sharing, and strengthening the bonds that connect us.

At GRFS, we are grateful for every opportunity to come together, support one another, and build a community rooted in kindness, respect, and belonging.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Eid filled with joy, warmth, and beautiful moments.

Eid Mubarak!

The post Eid al-Adha Greetings appeared first on GRFS.

Last Friday, our Dialogue Book Club gathered for a meaningful May session inspired by Erin Brockovich.

It was more than a film discussion. Together, we reflected on courage, resistance, womanhood, justice, and the power of speaking up.

Our conversation explored the warrior archetype, the heroine’s journey, and the many quiet but powerful ways women carry strength in everyday life. From activism to motherhood, from anger to empathy, we were reminded that resistance does not always have to be loud. Sometimes, it begins with simply refusing to stay silent.

We are grateful for this beautiful circle, the honest reflections, and the warmth everyone brought into the room.

The post Dialogue Book Club | Read & Watch Series #8 ( May ) appeared first on GRFS.

This year’s theme, “Do Not Be Daunted,” offered a meaningful opportunity to reflect on courage, resilience, and the human capacity to remain hopeful and steadfast during challenging times.

We deeply appreciated the thoughtful conversation with Anne Marie Webster, Fauzia Mazhar, and Krishna Gaitonde, moderated by August Adelman. Their reflections highlighted the wisdom found across different faith, spiritual, and philosophical traditions, and reminded us of the importance of shared understanding, appreciation, and cooperation.

At GRFS, we value opportunities that bring people together across diverse backgrounds to strengthen dialogue, mutual respect, and community connection.

Thank you to Interfaith Grand River for organizing this meaningful and longstanding community gathering. We are grateful to be part of conversations that help build a more inclusive, resilient, and connected Waterloo Region.

http://www.interfaithgrandriver.org

The post 51st Annual Interfaith Community Breakfast appeared first on GRFS.

The Waterloo Region Immigrant Survey is now open!

If you were born outside Canada, whether you are an immigrant, refugee, international student, claimant, or temporary worker, this is an important opportunity to share your experiences and help shape future services in our region.

Your feedback can help improve supports in areas such as:

• Housing
• Employment and education
• Health and well-being
• Belonging and community connection

The survey takes about 10–20 minutes
Deadline: May 31, 2026
Anonymous and voluntary

At GRFS, we believe that every voice matters. By sharing our experiences, we can help build a more welcoming, inclusive, and supportive Waterloo Region for everyone ????

Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit:
www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/ImmigrantSurvey

The post The Waterloo Region Immigrant Survey is now open! appeared first on GRFS.

With this vision, we are excited to offer a vibrant and enriching 6-week Summer School Program for children from Preschool to Grade 7.

Our program will run Monday to Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Each day, students will participate in dynamic classes designed to educate, inspire, and support their overall development. Every Thursday, students will enjoy special activities that add extra excitement and help them celebrate the week together.

The program includes a rich variety of learning and recreational opportunities, including:

• Soccer
• Basketball
• Coding, Technology & AI
• Values Education
• Language Development
• Art Activities
• Mind Games
• Weekly special activities

Each component is thoughtfully designed to support children’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth in a safe and welcoming environment.

We will conclude this wonderful summer journey with a joyful Children’s Festival, creating lasting memories for students and families.

Let’s come together to make this summer meaningful, productive, and full of happiness for our children ????

Dates: June 29 – August 6
Location: Hillside Public School
Registration: Through the GRFS website
Fee: $450 CAD

Families are encouraged to register early from the form below.

The post GRFS Summer School 2026 appeared first on GRFS.

We invite families from our diverse community to come together for a joyful gathering filled with connection, children’s activities, shared meals, and meaningful moments.

This special program is an opportunity to celebrate Eid, strengthen friendships, create beautiful memories, and pass on values of gratitude, generosity, care, and belonging to the next generation.

Children will enjoy a lively festival atmosphere with fun activities, while families and community members reconnect in a warm and welcoming environment.

We look forward to celebrating this special day together with joy, friendship, and community spirit.

Please reserve your spot early.

Register here!!!

The post Eid al-Adha Community Gathering appeared first on GRFS.

For many, Victoria Day marks a long weekend, the arrival of warmer days, and time spent with family, friends, and neighbours. It is also an opportunity to appreciate the diverse communities that make Canada a place where people from many backgrounds can live, learn, and grow together.

At Grand River Friendship Society, we believe that strong communities are built through understanding, inclusion, and meaningful connection. Days like this remind us of the importance of contributing positively to the society we call home.

Wishing everyone a peaceful and meaningful Victoria Day

The post Victoria Day: A Moment to Reflect on Community and Belonging appeared first on GRFS.