Lock Street Brewing Company - Spooktacular Soiree
2024-10-17 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto) | ON
Gennext and Lock Street Brewing present a night of Halloween fun, amazing live music by Mage Music and delicious drinks at our Spooktacular Soirée on October 17th from 6 to 9 pm!
Learn more or get tickets now

Organizer: United Way Niagara
Location
Lock Street Brewing Company
15 Lock Street St. Catharines, ON L2N 5B6

Tourism Industry Association of Ontario: 2024 Ontario Tourism Summit
2024-10-21 - 2024-10-24 | Sheraton Hamilton Hotel, 116 King St W, Hamilton, Ontario, L8P4V3, Canada
Conference Details

Join us for OTS24 in Hamilton, Ontario. Nestled between the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario, the city of Hamilton is a historic port city. The city is one of Canada’s most renowned and important industrial centers. While most of the city was centered by industries in the Hamilton Harbour area, the city is also home to outstanding natural beauty. Today, the city is a thriving location with a gorgeous waterfront, art communities, and historic towns.

We will be welcoming tourism professionals from around the province to gather, share, and collaborate. This year continues the relentless pace, that has started to be understood as the norm, but new challenges continue to present the reality of needing to be aware, look at things differently, the importance of communication with colleagues and being better. Climate change, Safety concerns, Technology opportunities, are all part of daily decision making.
This year’s summit is about AWARENESS, COLLABORATION, and MAKING IT HAPPEN. Join us as we recognize the new realities that our industry is facing, whether technology, climate change, risk awareness, change in supports, that are all or individually impacting our industry, our decisions, establishing the awareness for our industry in Ontario to work together to build stability and fortitude to work together and make it happen.
Day One of our agenda will focus on areas of Workforce and Infrastructure – with key sessions appealing to human resources, economic development and planning regarding challenges | opportunities with Infrastructure across our province. Day Two of our agenda will recognize the importance of Data and Marketing. Our industry is ravenous for key current data to allow us to make critical decisions to move our business forward and attract desired markets into our destinations in Ontario. Are our destinations ready? Is the infrastructure in place? Is our workforce in place? Let’s get ready.
Come…Join us… and Lets Make this Happen.

Niagara Community Foundation - Fall Mini Grants Deadline
2024-10-21 12:00 | ON
Fall Mini Grants
DUE: OCTOBER 21, 2024 | NOON
Maximum Ask: $1,500

The Niagara Community Foundation Mini-Grants Program provides $1500 grants to eligible organizations for projects that address the Foundation’s granting priorities. This program provides a time-sensitive, streamlined and responsive process for smaller projects.

This grant is not suitable for projects that have a budget exceeding $5000.

Community Potential Workshop: Lifting the Data off the Page
2024-10-22 09:00 - 11:00 | Niagara Falls Public Library, 4848 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Lifting the Data off the Page: Harness the power of the Living in Niagara report for impactful program planning and fundraising!
The Living in Niagara (LIN) report covers all sectors of Niagara’s well-being. This community-driven report is an important tool to help identify the needs and areas of concern across our urban-rural mix region. As organizations working toward social change, we have countless stories to speak to these concerns (we see them every day) – but, do we have the evidence to support our programming decisions and attract new funders and donors?
Community Potential presents this session to provide you with a full overview of the vital LIN report, and some basic skills in how to strategically apply Niagara-focused evidence to your work, planning and fundraising! You will be equipped to take new approaches to your grant writing, program decisions, and evaluation work.
Presenters will include:

Rachel Gillmore and Mary Wiley, Community Potential
JoAnne Krick, Director of Grants and Community Initiatives, Niagara Community Foundation
Cassandra Best, Lincoln Pelham Public Library
Nancy Garner, Quest Community Health Centre

Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Registration – 8:30 am
Presentations – 9:00 to 11:00 am

Location: LaMarsh Room, Niagara Falls Public Library, 4848 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls
**FREE PARKING available off Buckley Ave. (1 block east of Victoria Ave., via Morrison St.)
Have questions? Please reach out to Rachel – rachel.gillmore@communitypotential.ca

Guest Lecture by Kimberly Monk: Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Welland Canals
2024-10-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
The Centre for Canadian Studies at Brock University Invites you to attend a guest lecture by Kimberly Monk: Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Welland Canals
Light refreshments served, All welcome!

Thursday October 24 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Rankin Family Pavilion 214 (RFP 214), Brock University Main Campus
1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, Ontario

Kimberly Monk is an Adjunct Professor in History at Brock and a Research Associate with the Niagara Community Observatory. Since 2018, she has led archaeological investigations at the 19th century Shickluna Shipyard in St. Catharines.
This event with feature a talk, and interactive displays.

Related article, The Brock News, Tuesday, October 15, 2024 – HOPA Ports supports research on Niagara’s maritime history
https://brocku.ca/brock-news/2024/10/hopa-ports-supports-research-on-niagaras-maritime-history/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Daily%20The%20Brock%20News&utm_content=Daily%20The%20Brock%20News+CID_604dc6a1859b5a0e55d1684ce8340bc1&utm_source=Campaign%20Monitor%20MARCOM&utm_term=HOPA%20Ports%20supports%20research%20on%20Niagaras%20maritime%20history

YWCA Week Without Violence Panel Discussion
2024-10-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Niagara College
Join us for an important discussion during our “Week Without Violence” panel, where leading experts in homelessness and gender-based violence will share insights into the pressing issues faced by female-identifying individuals in Niagara. This event will explore the intersection of homelessness and violence, shedding light on the challenges and barriers these women encounter, and discussing the urgent need for support and solutions in our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage, learn, and be part of a conversation that aims to inspire change. Get your tickets today and stand with us in solidarity for a violence-free future!
Light snacks and refreshments served.
Panelists include:

Elisabeth Zimmermann, Executive Director, YWCA Niagara Region
Nyarayi Kapisavanhu, Executive Director, TOES Niagara
Nicole Regehr, Executive Director, Gillian’s Place
Mary Ellen Simon, Housing Programs Director, Niagara Regional Native Centre
Jennifer Gauthier, Executive Director, Birchway Niagara
And Moderated by Ruth Unrau, Gender Equity Advocate, Radio Host 610CKTB, Co-Founder of Women in Niagara

Where: Niagara College
When: Friday, October 25th, 9am

2024 Niagara Economic Summit
2024-10-29 07:30 - 15:00 | White Oaks Resort & Spa, 253 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, L0S 1J0, Canada
Thriving in a Transforming World 2024

White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa
253 Taylor Rd.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0

Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Each year, GNCC’s Niagara Economic Summit addresses pressing issues, trends, and opportunities, amplifying the voices of business and thought leaders. By putting their ideas into action, we aim to foster economic growth that benefits families, communities, and the region.

The 2024 Summit will look at these key themes:

Manufacturing future – The potential of this rapidly shifting sector

Experts weigh in on Niagara’s manufacturing opportunities and how new technologies and markets are reshaping Niagara’s key industries, from automotive and hydroelectric to steel, food processing and more.

Innovation and Sustainability while accelerating the building of houses

With a focus on getting more housing built, let’s consider the technological innovations, sustainable construction opportunities and green planning initiatives that create faster and smarter communities

Global connectivity – Bringing Niagara to the world and the world to Niagara

Assess how improved multimodal transportation—such as international air travel, GO train service, and maritime links—can enhance Niagara’s tourism, manufacturing, and export capabilities, linking us to the world and bringing the world to Niagara.

Our Love Hate Relationship with Social Media
2024-10-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Club Italia, 2525 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
This session will walk you through the balancing act of investing in social media as an important communication tool, while budgeting your time wisely; not spending countless hours creating content that no-one will see. We will walk you through the components of a simple social media strategy and review the basics of social media analytics; helping you better understand engagement rates, reach and followers. Lastly, we will have two Niagara charities share their best practices and provide us with real life examples of how to use social media effectively.
Please note: This session is designed for small to medium nonprofits who have either one marketing/communication staff or a staff person who wears many hats, including handling social media. This session is delivered from a communications perspective and will touch on fundraising, but will not be exclusively about fundraising. Communication Staff welcome!

AGENDA
DOORS OPEN 8:30 a.m. | SESSION BEGINS AT 9 a.m.
Breakfast buffet and hot coffee available.

PART 1: SOCIAL MEDIA FOR SMALL NON-PROFITS- Presented by Suzanne Veenstra, Marketing & Communications Coordinator, NCF

Why use social media as a communication tool?
Social Media channels to focus on
Components of a basic social media strategy
The importance of Analytics

PART 2: ANALYTICS 101- Presented by Jay Strauss, Social Media Consultant, ASG

How to navigate Meta Business Suite & Google Analytics
The basics about UTM Campaigns

PART 3: NIAGARA CHARITIES CASE STUDIES

Case Study 1: Jess Doan, Communications & Event Coordinator, Community Care St. Catharines & Thorold
Case Study 2: Annie Slate, General Manager, Carousel Players

PART 4: Q&A + NETWORKING

Q&A
Networking

Click here for more information and to purchase tickets: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/niagara-community-foundation-fondation-communautaire-de-niagara/events/social-media-for-charities/

Rodman Art Institute of Niagara: Collective Conversations
2024-10-30 18:30 - 20:30 | Rodman Art Institute Niagara, 104 St. Paul St, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2R3M2, Canada
Collective Conversations
Rodman Art Institute of Niagara
Aug 28 and Sept 24 & Oct 30, 2024
Rodman Art Institute of Niagara (RAIN) builds upon Rodman Hall Art Centre’s record over the past 6 decades of innovation and excellence in presenting hundreds of memorable art exhibits,
public events and education programs. RAIN’s mission is to care for and share the community’s extraordinary 1000-piece art collection and continue to present creative and deeply engaging visual arts exhibits, events, and classes.
“Collection Conversations” is a series of engaging lectures highlighting key works from RAIN’s 1000-piece permanent collection.
DATES

August 28 @ 6:30 pm
September 24 @ 6:30 pm
October 30 @ 6:30 pm

Cost: Free admission with a suggested donation of $5
Registration: Not required
Location:
104 St. Paul Street
St. Catharines Ontario
L2R 3M2
Website: https://rodmanart.ca/collectionconversations

DEADLINE: Niagara Prosperity Initiative Application Deadline
2024-10-31 | ON
Deadline for applications for the Niagara Prosperity Initiative to fund the following projects that are aligned with Niagara’s Poverty Reduction Strategy:

Project 1: Indigenous well-being. Develop a strategy for Indigenous specific poverty reduction initiatives
Project 2: Mental health and addiction (Social Assistance). Provide mental health and addiction supports for individuals on social assistance or those experiencing homelessness
Project 3: Mental health and addiction (Situation Tables). Provide supports for individuals referred to Niagara Situation Tables who need mental health or addiction support
Project 4: Income and employment. Increase opportunities for decent work, living wage employment and financial empowerment initiatives
Project 5: Housing and early child development. Provide housing stability services for survivors of domestic violence and their children
Project 6: Food security. Improve access to fresh, culturally appropriate, affordable and nutritious foods

You can access the Application Guidelines, project descriptions and online application on the Niagara Prosperity Initiative website. Applications are due October 31, 2024. Applicants may request between $100,000 to $300,000 per year, for up to three years. Please note, execution of agreements is contingent on Council budget approval.
Niagara Region will host three information sessions about the grant and application process:

Session 1: Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00p.m. (Virtual)
Session 2: Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, 10:00 a.m. to noon (Virtual)
Session 3: Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (In-person – Welland Community Centre, 145 Lincoln Street)

To register for an information session, email csgranting@niagararegion.ca.
Please forward this email to your contacts who may be interested in this grant opportunity. Working together to prevent and end poverty and increase well-being in Niagara.

United Way Agency information session: Poverty to Possibility
2024-11-05 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-11-14 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-11-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
United Way Niagara is pleased to announce a new funding round in 2025 for the Poverty to Possibility priority area.
We invite organizations addressing food security, housing stability, and income stability across Niagara to attend our information sessions.
During these sessions, we will provide:

an overview of the funding process
guidelines for submitting a Letter of Intent (LOI)
information on how programs can align with United Way Niagara’s funding outcomes.

Please register in advance to secure your spot.

Imagine Canada Standards Online Webinar
2024-11-05 10:00 - 12:00 | ON
Niagara Community Foundation and Imagine Canada are pleased to announce the first Ontario-based Accreditation Accelerator program for organizations based in the Niagara Region who want to pursue accreditation through Imagine Canada’s Standards. Join us on Tuesday, November 5th for an online webinar and info session.
As Canada’s most widely recognized nonprofit standards, the Standards Program provides best practices that help organizations strengthen governance and operations.
Come to find out more about the Accreditation Accelerator program. Successful organizations will receive in-kind support to pursue Standards Accreditation and will be connected to a supportive network of other Niagara-based organizations also pursuing accreditation.
Click here to register

Halton Region Presents: Selling Food to Ontario Event - Day 2
2024-11-12 09:00 - 16:30 | ON
Are you a farmer or entrepreneur looking to start or expand a food or beverage related business? Whether you’re a homebased business, a producer looking to offer value-added products, or a small food and beverage start-up/manufacturer looking to achieve success, this event is for you! Presented by Halton Region, this two-day workshop entitled “Selling Food to Ontario” will provide you with the fundamentals to help get you started or grow your existing business.
Day 1 – Tending to Vending Learn directly from industry experts, government representatives, and food entrepreneurs about how to put local foods onto Ontario consumers’ plates. Topics include:

Marketing channel opportunities
The basics of food regulations and inspections
Costing and pricing for profit
The latest in food trends

Day 2 – Uncovering the Possibilities Build on your knowledge by hearing from representatives from large grocery chains, distributors, independent retailers, industry experts, and government staff to understand how you can get your product on the shelf. Topics include:

Labelling and packaging requirements and sustainable packaging
Cost-effective marketing tactics and how to effectively use social media
How to use artificial intelligence to assist your business
Funding opportunities and government resources that can help stretch your investments

Date and Time:
Day 1, October 17th (Day 1) and November 12th (Day 2), 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost:

$35.92+HST (Day 1 or Day 2)
$59.14+HST (Day 1 & Day 2)

CLICK HERE to register here for Day 1
CLICK HERE to register here for Day 2

Deadline to Register: Celebrate World Toilet Day with Niagara Region
2024-11-15 | ON
In a bid to break taboos around toilets and make access to sanitation a global priority, the United Nations recognizes World Toilet Day on Nov. 19 each year. To celebrate World Toilet Day, Niagara Region will be offering two free guided tours of a Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Niagara Region has 11 wastewater treatment facilities that process 187.5 million litres of sewage per day to protect the Great Lakes from pollution and practice responsible environmental stewardship. On this tour, wastewater operators will walk participants through the plant to explore the various phases of wastewater treatment.
Port Dalhousie Wastewater Treatment Plant Tours
Tuesday, Nov. 19
9 a.m. OR 1 p.m.
40 Lighthouse Rd., St. Catharines
Registration is required to participate. No walk-ins will be accepted.
Email amanda.deschenes@niagararegion.ca to register for a tour.
Participants will be required to sign a waiver prior to the start of the tour. Must be 12 years of age or older and be able to walk up and down stairs to participate. Closed toe shoes are required.
Space is limited, sign up by Friday, Nov. 15 to secure your spot.
Can’t make it? A virtual tour of the Baker Road (Grimsby) Wastewater Treatment Plant is also available.
For more information contact:
Amanda Deschenes
Engagement and Education Coordinator, Water-Wastewater
amanda.deschenes@niagararegion.ca

Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition presents: From Hope to Action
2024-11-19 08:30 - 16:00 | White Oaks Resort & Spa, 253 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, L0S 1J0, Canada
Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition presents: From Hope to Action

Discover the latest knowledge and practices in suicide prevention, intervention, postvention, and lie promotion
This event is designed to inspire hope, educate, and connect!
Conference registration includes keynote speakers, a lived experience speaker, interactive activities, a buffet lunch and snacks

Space is limited! Register now!
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
8:30am-4pm
White Oaks Resort
253 Taylor Rd SS4
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Click here for more information: https://niagarasuicidepreventioncoalition.ca/

24th Annual 2024 Women in Business Awards
2024-11-21 11:00 - 15:00 | Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, 5875 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2G3K7, Canada
Join us in celebrating all the incredible women business professionals at the 2024 Women in Business Awards Ceremony.
Agenda:
11:00am – 11:30am Registration & Reception
12:00pm – 12:20pm Welcome Messages
12:20pm – 01:00pm Lunch
01:00pm – 03:00pm Awards Presentation
Awards presentations will include a keynote from Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Michelle O’Keefe and RULA award recipient Stephanie Thompson.

Date and Location:

Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, 5875 Falls Avenue
Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3K7

Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 11:00 AM-3:00 PM

Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging Webinar: Examining the social environment and its relevance to healthy aging
2024-11-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Join us November 26 at Noon ET for our CLSA webinar, “Examining the social environment and its relevance to healthy aging in the CLSA.” The webinar will be presented by Daiva Nielsen, an associate professor in the School of Human Nutrition at McGill University and Katherine Labonté, a research professional in the School of Psychology at Laval University.
Several studies have linked social factors with outcomes relevant to aging, including diet, mental health, and cognitive functioning. However, social factors are multi-dimensional and may function synergistically when evaluated in combination. This webinar will present a novel approach for characterizing profiles of a social environment, reflecting a combination of multiple social factors related to network size, social cohesion, social support, and social isolation. Associations between the social environment profiles and outcomes related to healthy aging will be discussed, including nutritional risk and cognitive functioning.
Professor Daiva Nielsen is a Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Ingestive Behaviour and an associate professor in the School of Human Nutrition at McGill University. Her research examines diverse biological and social factors that relate to eating behaviour and health. She applies epidemiological and experimental methods to comprehensively investigate complex patterns of relationships between behaviour and health.
Katherine Labonté received her PhD in cognitive psychology from Laval University. Her expertise is in human decision-making, and she has worked on multidisciplinary projects focused on performance in complex work environments, food-related inhibition, social factors and cognition. She is currently a research professional at Laval University, where she works on the assessment of climate change knowledge among the general public while also conducting experimental research in cognitive psychology.
CLICK HERE to register

Women in STEM – The Sip, Savor, and Science Food Lab even
2024-11-28 18:00 - 20:30 | Niagara College
Thu, Nov 28, 2024 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Niagara College – Glendale Campus
135 Taylor Road Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0

Welcome to the Women in STEM – The Sip, Savor, and Science Food Lab event! Join us at Niagara College Canada, Welland Campus for a fun-filled evening celebrating women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Get ready to indulge your taste buds while exploring the fascinating world of food science. This in-person event promises an exciting blend of hands-on experiments, delicious food tastings, and inspiring discussions with leading female experts in STEM fields. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to sip, savor, and discover the wonders of science!
Students aged 8-13 must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/women-in-stem-experience-the-sip-savor-and-science-food-lab-tickets-1055012694369?aff=oddtdtcreator

NCF Charity Event: Donor Relations
2024-12-04 08:30 - 11:00 | Club Italia, 2525 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Join us for our next professional development event: Donor Relations.
Learn promising practices about creating an effective donor relations program that will lead to increased donor retention, engagement, and giving. By exploring donor engagement examples, you will leave the session with tangible takeaways that you can employ in your daily work.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Overview

Learn promising practices about creating an effective donor relations program that will lead to increased donor retention, engagement, and giving. By exploring donor engagement examples, you will leave the session with tangible takeaways that you can employ in your daily work.

Details

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
– Understanding the importance of donor relations
– Designing an effective donor relations program
– Monitoring the success of your program
– Exploring impact in action through case examples
– Knowing the tools in your toolbox to build successful and lasting relationships

AGENDA:
8:30- Doors open. Breakfast and coffee available
9:00- Donor Relations 101
9:30- Donor Relations in Action
10:00- Q&A
10:30- Networking

GUEST SPEAKERS:
Graeme Dargarvel
Director of Development & Communications, Gillian’s Place
Graeme has a passion for community and working with agencies and people that support Niagara’s most vulnerable. With over eight years of progressive fundraising experience, Graeme has a keen interest in providing an exceptional donor experience and unlocking the impact of major and legacy giving.
In 2019, Graeme joined Gillian’s Place as Manager of Community Development with prior experience from United Way Niagara and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation in Hamilton. As well as being a graduate of the University of the Guelph’s Master of Arts Leadership program, Graeme is a certified Sommelier through both Niagara College and The Court of Master Sommeliers.
In his current role as Director of Development & Communications at Gillian’s Place, Graeme is focused on raising vital funds to support priority programs and the $10 Million Build a Safer Future Campaign that will see the expansion of Gillian’s Place. Inspired by the dedicated Gillian’s Place team and those they serve, fostering and nurturing meaningful community relationships is not only fulfilling, but helps empower survivors to break the cycle of violence and abuse.
Chelsey Maclachlan Wormald
Director, Resource Development – United Way Niagara
Chelsey is a passionate relationship builder, an avid list maker, and a natural communicator who thrives on connecting people and fostering strong communities. With a deep commitment to making a difference, she excels at developing creative strategies to raise awareness and generate revenue for important causes.
Chelsey began her fundraising career at Brescia University College and subsequently held key roles at the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and Anova: A Future Without Violence. In her current position as Director, Resource Development at United Way Niagara, she leads initiatives that support vital programs and services, creating a lasting impact on the Niagara region.
In 2021, she earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification, further solidifying her dedication to advancing the field of fundraising.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Transforming Care: DEI and Health Equity Knowledge Exchange
2024-12-05 | Holiday Inn & Suites, St. Catharines Conference Centre, 327 Ontario Street, St. Catharines, ON, L2R5L3, Canada
Join us on Dec. 5, 2024, at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Centre for a pivotal DEI and health equity leadership conference. This event is tailored to assist organizations in integrating DEI and health equity into their operations.
Highlights include keynote speakers at the forefront of health equity in Ontario, breakout sessions featuring expert insights on DEI, Indigenous health, sociodemographic data collection, health equity strategy, research, reporting and evaluation and a panel discussion.
Emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to health equity, this conference aims to equip participants with the knowledge and resources necessary to drive meaningful change. A virtual option is available for the morning session.
Click here for more information and to register: https://transforminghealthcaredeiconference.my.canva.site/transformingcareconference

DEADLINE: Subsidy for Niagara Community Foundation Subsidy Support of the Regional Accreditation Accelerator Program
2024-12-05 | Online
The Niagara Community Foundation and Imagine Canada are pleased to announce the first Ontario-based Accreditation Accelerator program for organizations based in the Niagara Region who want to pursue accreditation through Imagine Canada’s Standards.
The Standards Accreditation Program is designed to support organizations so that they can elevate their practices and demonstrate excellence to their donors, staff team, and partners. Imagine Canada is pleased to partner with the Niagara Community Foundation to help organizations identify and mitigate organizational risk, improve governance practices, promote financial transparency and accountability, and foster a strong workforce.
About the Regional Accreditation Accelerator Program
Successful organizations will receive in-kind assistance to pursue Standards Accreditation through the program. In-kind assistance will provide up to twelve months of free access to the Standards Community, including access to a peer advisor, and a waived Standards application fee. Recipients will also be connected to a supportive network with other Niagara-based organizations in the cohort.
This program is made possible through the generous support of the Niagara Community Foundation (NCF).
“NCF is proud to continue our strong association with Imagine Canada by providing funding to charities and nonprofits here in Niagara looking to benefit from the Standards Program through the new Regional Accelerator initiative,” states Bryan Rose, NCF Executive Director. “In alignment with our strategic pillar of Excellence, NCF became accredited with Imagine Canada in 2012. As a philanthropic leader in our region, NCF is committed to empowering Niagara charities and nonprofits. Working with Imagine Canada to help these groups achieve this important accreditation not only provides strength and resiliency for each organization, but adds confidence in and empowers the entire charitable sector throughout Niagara.”
Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria
The Niagara Community Foundation Regional Accreditation Accelerator is open to charitable organizations and public-benefit nonprofit organizations based in the Niagara Region. Existing Standards Community members who are yet to pay their application fee are also eligible to apply.
Don’t hesitate to email us at standards@imaginecanada.ca if you have any questions about the program.
How to Apply
We recognize that the accreditation application and the internal practice improvement that goes along with it requires substantial effort for organizations’ staff. To mitigate this and make the program more accessible, we have endeavored to keep the accelerator application process as simple and succinct as possible.
In Stage 1, we invite all interested applicants to complete a 10-minute online statement to help us understand your organization and your interest in applying to the program. The deadline for completing the statement is December 5th 2024, 11:59pm.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Brown Homestead: Homestead Holiday Tours
2024-12-12 08:00 - 2024-12-14 17:00 | The Brown Homestead, 1317 Pelham Road, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2R6P7, Canada
Celebrate Christmas across two centuries of family farm life on a special candle-lit tour of the John Brown House.

This holiday experience is available for three dates only!

Thursday, December 12, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday, December 13, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Enjoy hot chocolate as you are led through the oldest home in St. Catharines, built beginning in 1796. Discover stories of the farming families who once lived here and learn how Christmas traditions changed over time into the twentieth century. Each room will be candle-lit and decorated to reflect a different historical era.

Tours begin every hour, on the hour.
Tours are 50 minutes in length. Registration is encouraged, but drop-in visitors are welcome.
Open by donation.
Recommended $5 per person donation plus a non-perishable food item for Community Care of St. Catharines & Thorold.

Feed Niagara Great Holiday Food Drive – Events taking place across Niagara
2024-12-13 | ON
December 13, 2024 marks the 4th annual Region Wide Great Holiday Food Drive.
Filling bags, barrels and busses never felt so good. Over the past few years many are facing challenges they never imagined possible. Job insecurity, the inability to provide basic needs for family, choosing between rent or food. From young families to the elderly living alone no one should go hungry. This year we are spreading holiday joy across all of Niagara. Every donation is important, every can and dollar make a difference. With your help we can make sure every child experiences holiday magic and no one goes hungry. Come on Niagara, it’s time to fill the sleigh… and feel good!
Check the map to find out more about the events happening across the region!

Niagara Peninsula Conservation, Holiday Traditions in the Victorian Village
2024-12-14 | Balls Falls Conservation Area, 3292 Sixth Ave, Lincoln, Ontario, L0R 1S0, Canada
Bring your family and friends to enjoy the beauty of the winter season in the Village of Glen Elgin located at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area.
Travel back in time as the historical village comes to life, decorated for the holidays in early Victorian-era styles, and heritage interpreters lead you through life in the 1800s. A variety of fun and family-friendly holiday activities and traditions await you!
FAMILIES WILL ENJOY:

Santa Station at the Centre for Conservation
Complimentary face painting
Photo and Toy Station
Holiday Craft and Colouring stations
S’mores by the campfire
Hot chocolate station
& more!!

While you’re with us, help us support our local food bank this holiday season! Guests are welcome to bring non-perishable food items that will be collected in support of Village of Hope Niagara.
General Admission (6+): $9 per person will collected upon arrival at the Centre for Conservation, where you will begin your experience!
Approximate duration: 1 ½ – 2 hours. We kindly ask visitors to limit their time to 2 hours to allow others to attend and experience the event throughout the day. Trails are open for self-guided hikes. Parking is limited, so guests are encouraged to carpool.
Dogs are permitted at the conservation area but must remain on leash at all times. Dogs are not permitted within heritage buildings or other indoor spaces.

St. Catharines Older Adult Centre Lunch and Learn Series: The Brown Homestead
2025-01-15 10:00 - 13:00 | Older Adult Centre, 80 Dunlop Dr, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
The Brown Homestead: Past, Present and Future with Sara Nixon
Jan. 15, 2025
10 a.m., Lunch to follow
Dunlop Drive Older Adult Centre, 80 Dunlop Dr., St. Catharines
Get your tickets for the next installment in the St. Catharines Older Adult Centre Lunch and Learn Series.
Visit the Dunlop Drive Older Adult Centre at 80 Dunlop Dr. and listen to Sara Nixon dive into the past, present and future of the Brown Homestead located on Pelham Road in St. Catharines.
Begins at 10 a.m. on Jan. 15, 2025. Lunch will follow provided by Chef Paul’s catering.
Purchase your tickets for $10 below or call 905.685.6668 before Jan. 8.
Get Tickets

DEADLINE: Niagara Community Foundation Environmental Grant Applications
2025-01-27 | ON
NCF’s Environmental Grant program is a flexible and responsive grant focusing on bringing partners together in our community to create a collaborative approach to meeting the environmental challenges we are facing.
This grant program supports rural and urban environment projects and we invite charities, municipalities, environmental stewardship groups, volunteer groups and youth led initiatives that meet the eligibility requirements to apply.
Applications are due Monday, January 27, 2025 at noon.
CLICK HERE for more information

Lunch & Learn: CMHA National Presents "Not Myself Today": Transforming Mental Health at Work
2025-01-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
GNCC Lunch & Learn
CMHA National Presents:
Not Myself Today: Transforming Mental Health at Work
Discover the Not Myself Today program and build greater awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and create psychologically healthy and safe work cultures – in just a few clicks. Not Myself Today can help your team tackle issues like burnout and stress and learn how to support employees experiencing mental health challenges.

In this webinar, you will learn:

How to have effective conversations that work to destigmatize mental health and mental illness in the workplace through the physical and digital educational resources contained within the Not Myself Today program.
Not Myself Today online portal walkthrough for employees (personalized dashboard, learning modules, how to start the initiative internally and keep it top of mind long-term)
Not Myself Today Manager’s e-learning series walkthrough (why managers are key factors in the mental health of staff, how to support managers and help them support their teams effectively through this training series)

Powered by YMCA of Niagara
With your 5-Minute Financial Download from C.R. Smith Financial Services
Presented by:
Rian Cunningham
National Business Development Representative
Canadian Mental Health Association
Free for GNCC members or $10 fee for non-members

Safe Cycling Course by Bike Niagara
2025-02-25 00:00 | ON
This invitation is for you, your family, friends and to the people you support in the community! Dave is also happy to come out by invitation. So if you would like to bring people together, young and old, for cycling, Dave is always willing to support.
I want to inform you about a safe cycling course that Bike Niagara is doing this spring (see attached poster and hand-out cards). We are working with Pelham community groups and the Freewheelers to help support this endeavour.
Your attendance would be most welcomed, as well as others that you think might benefit from the course. The room we have at the Fonthill Community Centre is large at an 80 capacity and we would like to fill it if possible.
There is another bike safe presentation that we are doing scheduled for Wed. May 15th, 1 to 2pm at the Fonthill Meridian Centre as part of a Seniors Workshop and Seminar Series put on by the Town of Pelham. This may also be of interest to you.
Please feel free to contact me for any further details or other ways that we can help each other.
Dave
Safe Cycling Instructor, Bike Niagara
Member, Niagara Freewheelers and Probus Club of Pelham
jordave@cogeco.ca
905-892-4773
Cell 905-519-4977
Click here for more details:
