Belong
Building a community where everyone feels they matter
For almost 20 years, belonging has been a core pillar of the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership. Through the Belong Steering Group (BSG), community organizations, public sector partners, and cultural and faith groups work together to strengthen inclusion, reduce barriers, and support meaningful connection for newcomers.
Belonging helps people participate, contribute, and thrive by building the relationships and systems that foster inclusion across Waterloo Region.
We focus on:
- Cross-cultural connections
- Addressing racism and discrimination
- Building welcoming and inclusive communities
- Supporting long-term belonging
2024 Forward Together Conference
In 2024, the biennial conference on community well-being and belonging brought together community partners for speakers, panels, and breakout sessions focused on strengthening belonging and community safety across Waterloo Region. The event was co-hosted with the Children and Youth Planning Table and the Waterloo Region Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
Next conference: Fall 2026