In Waterloo Region there are a number of community organizations that support resident wellbeing and promote a sense of belonging. The organizations detailed below work with the City of Waterloo to provide specific neighbourhood supports as part of the broader range of services they provide to the community. This page features general information about how these community organizations can provide support for you and your neighbours. 

Camino Health and Wellbeing

(formerly Carizon Family and Community Services)

When children, youth, adults, couples, and families face challenges, Camino programs and services provide care and compassion to help them achieve wellness.

Camino offers the following forms of support:

  • counselling
  • children’s mental health services
  • education and school based services such as pathways to education
  • community services such as the Erb West Care and Share House

Find more information on the Camino website. 

Community Justice Initiatives

Community Justice Initiatives (CJI) envisions connected, peaceful communities where all conflict is resolved in a restorative way. Their mission is to inspire safe, healthy, and peaceful communities, one resolution at a time.

CJI offers a variety of community supports including: 

  • mediation and conflict resolution
  • programs for people impacted by sexual abuse and trauma
  • integration circles
  • family and youth programs
  • programs for people in the justice system
  • training
  • public and community education
  • lists of recommended readings

Find more information on the Community Justice Initiatives website. 

House of Friendship

House of Friendship is a Waterloo Region-based non-profit organization that provides food, housing, addiction treatment, and neighbourhood support to individuals and families.

House of Friendship offers the following forms of support:

  • counselling services
  • specialized services for pregnant or parenting women
  • day and residential treatment
  • emergency food hampers
  • Christmas food hampers
  • Charles street men’s shelter
  • supportive housing
  • summer camp sponsorship
  • family outreach program
  • community centres such as Sunnydale Community Centre

Find more information on the House of Friendship website. 

Kitchener Waterloo AccessAbility

KW AccessAbility is an organization that delivers disability services and support for adults in the Waterloo Region. This organization provides:

  • computer training
  • advocacy
  • information and referrals
  • health and wellness programs
  • recreational opportunities

Find more information on the KW AccessAbility website. 

Volunteer Waterloo Region

Volunteer Waterloo Region provides connections and leadership to support the development of individuals and organizations through volunteerism. The organization provides a central hub for accessing current volunteer opportunities, shares best practices, and provides continuous learning opportunities for professionals in the non-profit sector.

Here are some examples of support the Volunteer Waterloo Region offers:

  • lists of available volunteer roles
  • recruitment for available volunteer roles
  • online training and in-person workshops
  • volunteer best practices and resources
  • volunteer recognition through the volunteer impact awards

Find more information on the Volunteer Waterloo Region website.