Niagara Knowledge Exchange

The Niagara Falls Cultural Development Fund (NFCDF) Application Deadline December 6th, 2023
2023-12-06 | Online
The Niagara Falls Cultural Development Fund (NFCDF) was established in 2016 to provide financial support to grassroots cultural initiatives across Niagara Falls. Since 2016, over $425,000 has been invested in the arts & culture community via the NFCDF, with over 80 groups and organizations benefiting.
The NFCDF is currently accepting applications for 2024, reviewing proposals from a wide variety of cultural initiatives, including:

Exhibitions & events
Walking tours
Workshops
Panel discussions & lectures
Art installations
Community celebrations
Interactive experiences & performances

Submitting an application:

Visit https://niagarafalls.ca/living/arts-and-culture/cultural-development-fund.aspx
Fill out the application form before the Wednesday, December 6 deadline.
Attend the virtual information session on Wednesday, November 8, at 6 p.m.
Successful applicants will be announced in March 2024 (projects must occur between March 2024 and February 2024).

The NFCDF aims to support innovative and inspired cultural programming that is Niagara Falls-based, inclusive, collaborative and accountable.
For a list of previous NFCDF recipients, visit https://niagarafalls.ca/living/arts-and-culture/cultural-development-fund.aspx

Holiday Tips and Strategies
2023-12-05 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Online
While the holidays tend to be an exciting time, they can simultaneously be quite stressful for those who are balancing caring for someone living with dementia and organizing holiday festivities. Join us as we discuss various ways to help make this holiday season a fulfilling and relaxing one for both caregivers and individuals living with dementia.

World AIDS Day Vigil
2023-12-01 17:30 - 18:00 | Niagara Artists Centre, 354 St. Paul St., St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
Please join us on December 1, 2023 as we commemorate 35 years of HIV/AIDS awareness. Standing in an unyielding solidarity with those currently living with HIV, and honouring the memory of those lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
This year’s vigil is presented by ViiV Healthcare.

World AIDS Day & Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week Flag Raising
2023-12-01 11:00 - 23:30 | Niagara Region Headquarters, 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, Ontario, Canada
Please join us on December 1, at Niagara Region Headquarters for our flag-raising in honour of World AIDS Day and the beginning of Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week.

Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre: Holiday Market
2023-12-01 09:30 - 2023-12-02 16:30 | Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, 247 Ricardo Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, l0s1j0, Canada
The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre will be hosting its annual Holiday Market again this December! This event features a wide range of one-of-a-kind, handmade holiday gifts, ornaments, and decor created by over 25 local artisans. Christmas trees in the spacious Walker Room gallery will be decorated with handmade ornaments and products available for purchase. Guests will have the opportunity to choose from an assortment of products including personal care items, wood, jewellery, pottery, glass, candles, birdhouses, textile and more!
There is no charge to enter and guests are encouraged to bring their own bags. We will also have holiday helpers to assist you and put aside items for purchase.
Proceeds from the event benefit children & seniors’ programs.
Date and Time:
December 1st- 2nd from 9:30am- 4:30pm
December 3rd- 10th from 11:00 a.m.- 4:00p.m.

Grimsby Flag Raising: AIDS Awareness Week
2023-11-28 13:00 - 13:30 | Grimsby, 160 Livingston Ave, Grimsby, Ontario, Canada
Municipal flag raising in honour of HIV/AIDS Awareness Week

West Lincoln Flag Raising: AIDS Awareness Week
2023-11-28 13:00 - 13:30 | West Lincoln, 318 Canborough St, West Lincoln, Ontario, Canada
Municipal flag raising in honour of HIV/AIDS Awareness Week.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Flag Raising: AIDS Awareness Week
2023-11-28 10:30 - 23:00 | Niagara-on-the-Lake, 1593 Four Mile Creek Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada

Thorold Flag Raising: AIDS Awareness Week
2023-11-28 09:00 - 09:30 | Thorold, 3540 Schmon Parkway, Thorold, Ontario, Canada

Canadian Open Data Summit
2023-11-23 - 2023-11-24 | Victoria British Columbia, Victoria, british columbia, Canada
The Canadian Open Data Society and the Government of British Columbia are pleased to announce that the 2023 Canadian Open Data Summit will take place in Victoria, British Columbia, on November 23rd and 24th
The Canadian Open Data Summit is the go-to event for open data advocates, practitioners, users, champions and entrants seeking professional development, learning, and networking opportunities. Following British Columbia and Canada’s current and innovative thinking, we invite you to delve into these compelling topics:
Open Data, Digital Futures and AI
Data is often at the center of digital service transformation. Discussions around open data and AI bring exciting opportunities, along with unanswered questions. How can we leverage data as part of our digital future? How do we regulate the use of data in emerging technology? Who is responsible for the risks and rewards of using artificial intelligence? Did anyone say ChatGPT?
Actionable Data for Equity, Inclusion, Diversity and Anti-Racism
We know, across Canada, there is much work to be done to break down barriers, become more equitable, and to eliminate racism—people are asking for systemic change in our justice, healthcare and education systems. Data is key in identifying where these barriers exist, and ways to eliminate them. How can we better use data to support this important work? How do we assure the public their data is safe and being used in the right ways?
Open Energy
As climate change and political tensions bring more awareness to the importance of energy in our daily lives, many organisations are advocating for greater access to energy data. How can we contribute to the rise of open energy? Together we’ll discuss solutions to improve access and use of energy data – for efficiency, economic stimulation, policy development, and to change the world!

Health Canada Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) Call for Proposals – deadline November 22
2023-11-22 14:00 | Online
The Government of Canada Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) funds community-based supports, and evidence-based health interventions. The 2023 SUAP will fund projects that address substance use issues across the continuum of care.
Funding priorities include:
1 – Supporting and enhancing the role of People with Lived and Living Experience (PWLLE) within organizations that address substance use across the comprehensive continuum of care.
2 – Services and programs that target post treatment aftercare and transition back into the community
3 – Addressing alcohol use disorder
4 – Addressing adult tobacco cessation
SUAP website: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/canadian-drugs-substances-strategy/funding/substance-use-addictions-program/contribution-funding.html

Portage Medical Family Health Team (PMFHT) Walking Group: Every Other Wednesday
2023-11-22 13:00 - 14:00 | Gale Centre, 5152 Thorold Stone Rd, Niagara Falls, on, Canada
Take that first step to engage in regular exercise with Portage Medical Family Health Team. Meet others in your community and gain some support for coping with everyday life. Our goal is to have a positive impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of everyone. All ages and fitness levels are welcome! Every other Wednesday @ 1:00. To register for our BeneFITs Walking Group,
Call 905.354.9393, ext. 1
Event Date and Time: November 22, 2023 @ 1:00, December 6, 2023 @ 1:00 and December 20, 2023 @ 1:00
Location: Gale Centre – 5152 Thorold Stone Road, Niagara Falls, Rink 1 second flr.

Niagara Community Foundation: Fall Fundraising Series
2023-11-22 08:30 - 11:00 | Club Italia, 2525 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Join us for our Fall Fundraising Series. These professional development opportunities provide you with expert training, right here in Niagara.
Presented by Niagara Community Foundation and Armstrong Strategy Group, the topics chosen in this series were chosen by YOU our charity partners. Over the next 9 months, we will be hosting five sessions, offering you training to meet your organization’s needs.
Register for one event or a couple at a time to access discounted pricing.
The first two sessions area available for registration now!

OCTOBER 18: BIGGER GIFTS FOR SMALL SHOPS
With Marla Smith, CFRE, AFP Master Trainer | Director of Development, Niagara Children’s Centre
Attendees will…
· Learn effective prospecting techniques to identify potential major donors;
· Develop confidence in building and maintaining meaningful donor relationships through cultivation strategies;
· Acquire the skills and strategies necessary for making successful major gift solicitations;
· Learn how to engage donors in meaningful stewardship activities;
· Equip participants to diversify their fundraising strategies to increase their organization’s financial sustainability

NOVEMBER 22: GRANT WRITING
With JoAnne Krick, Director of Grants & Community Initiatives, Niagara Community Foundation and,
Gilmar Militar, Program Manager, Ontario Trillium Foundation
Attendees will learn about…
· Grant research, cultivation and relationship building
· Grand writing Do’s and Don’ts
· Grant writing steps with examples
· Grant writing evaluation and follow Up

8:30 (doors) 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. | Club Italia, Niagara Falls
$25 or $40 for two part series

Hold Me Tight - Educational Couples Workshop
2023-11-18 09:30 - 2023-11-19 16:30 | Club Italia, 2525 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
To Strengthen and Repair your Relationship – This workshop is for any couple in a committed relationship. Engaging presentations and videos will provide practical tools to help strengthen
and repair your bond. Although most of the work will be done with your partner one-on-one, there will be a larger group teaching session. Participants are encouraged
to share as much or as little in the large group as comfort level allows. Learn to utilize the tools provided in this workshop to create and maintain a loving connection. A loving connection contributes to better mental and physical health, less conflict and a better understanding of what each partner needs. Visit our website to complete the initial registration form.

Food Affordability in Niagara: Results of the 2023 Nutritious Food Basket Survey
2023-11-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Join Niagara Region Public Health for a presentation of the 2023 Nutritious Food Basket (NFB) survey results. The NFB survey is used to collect the cost of nutritious food and monitor food affordability at the local level. The results of the NFB are used to shed light on the relationship between poverty and food insecurity and support advocacy efforts for food insecurity solutions.
Presenters:
Callie Anderson, Health Promoter, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention Division, Niagara Region Public Health
Kavalpreet Grewal, Health Promoter, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention Division, Niagara Region Public Health

CFUW St. Catharines November Meeting
2023-11-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Trillium United Church, Ruby Carroll Hall, 415 Linwell Road, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
“Improving Safe and Affordable Housing for Women in Niagara”, a panel discussion with Joanne Heritz, Assistant Professor, Political Science Department, Brock University, and Elisabeth Zimmerman, Executive Director, YWCA Niagara Region.
Attend two meetings at no cost and then consider joining with a paid membership.

Fort Erie Mayor’s Forum on Diversity and Inclusion
2023-11-10 08:00 - 14:00 | Fort Erie Leisureplex Banquet Hall, 3 Municipal Drive, Fort Erie, ontario, Canada
The “Mayor’s Forum on Diversity and Inclusion” is a transformative gathering aimed at catalyzing change and fostering inclusive environments in various sectors. This event brings together thought leaders, professionals, activists, and advocates from diverse backgrounds to engage in insightful discussions, share best practices, and forge meaningful connections.
The conference offers a dynamic platform for participants to engage in panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities. Attendees will leave with actionable insights, a broader network of like-minded professionals, and a renewed commitment to driving positive change in their respective spheres of influence.
By fostering an environment of collaboration and learning, this forum strives to be a catalyst for lasting change, driving the collective effort towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
For more information and to purchase tickets: https://letstalk.forterie.ca/diversity-and-inclusion-coalition
Early Bird Tickets can be purchased for $50.00 by going to the following link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/mayors-forum-on-diversity-and-inclusion-fort-erie-tickets-731229466017?aff=oddtdtcreator

Niagara Workforce Coalition Launch
2023-11-09 15:00 - 17:00 | White Oaks Resort & Spa, 253 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, L0S 1J0, Canada
Workforce Collective is excited to announce the formation of a Niagara Workforce Coalition to integrate workforce planning and development across our community. The objective of this work is to facilitate action that supports a thriving local economy, powered by fair employment opportunities and collaborative employee recruitment and retention efforts.
To solve these challenges, the Coalition intends to engage key leaders in systemic change and align with community-wide initiatives (such as our region’s Economic Development Strategy and emerging Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy). We need more employers to enable decent work— inclusive of fair wages, secure work arrangements, and meaningful career advancement. We need to work across employment, education, and training systems to address the growing mismatch between the skills workers have and those employers are seeking.
Interested parties and prospective partners are invited to join us at the Launch. Please register at: https://workforcecoalitionlaunch.eventbrite.ca

Portage Medical Family Health Team (PMFHT) Walking Group: Every Other Wednesday
2023-11-08 13:00 - 14:00 | Gale Centre, 5152 Thorold Stone Rd, Niagara Falls, on, Canada
Take that first step to engage in regular exercise with Portage Medical Family Health Team. Meet others in your community and gain some support for coping with everyday life. Our goal is to have a positive impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of everyone. All ages and fitness levels are welcome! Every other Wednesday @ 1:00. To register for our BeneFITs Walking Group,
Call 905.354.9393, ext. 1
Event Date and Time: November 8, 2023 @ 1:00, November 22, 2023 @ 1:00, December 6, 2023 @ 1:00 and December 20, 2023 @ 1:00
Location: Gale Centre – 5152 Thorold Stone Road, Niagara Falls, Rink 1 second floor.

Sexual Well-being through Life's Journey: Breaking Down the Barriers
2023-11-08 08:30 - 15:00 | Grantham Lions Club, 732 Niagara Street, St. Catharines, Ontario, l2m7w7, Canada
Join us for the day to break down our thoughts, beliefs and attitudes towards aging and sexual health. Niagara Elder Abuse Prevention Network is hosting “Sexual Well-being through Life’s Journey: Breaking Down the Barriers”, in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Niagara and Grantham Lions Club. This conference will explore our response to sexual health in health care for older adults exploring inclusivity in our own professional practices.
Target Audience for this conference is professionals interested in, or working with older adults.
8:30am registration starts
9:00am Conference begins promptly
Lunch and refreshments is included in ticket price.
Vendor Fair

Canadian Caregiving Summit 2023
2023-11-06 - 2023-11-08 | Shaw Centre, Ottawa, Canada
The Canadian Caregiving Summit, hosted by the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence (CCCE), brings together lived experience experts, leaders, policy makers, and researchers across the age, disability, and illness communities to work together to build the foundation of a national caregiving strategy.
The Summit will explore 4 topic areas:
– Healthcare
– Social & Community Care
– Care Workforce
– Work Education & Care.
The 4 topic areas will be explored through the lens of all those who provide care, including experiences of and barriers faced by of those in LGBTQ+, Indigenous and racialized communities.

Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre Presents The Power of Water: Janet Horne-Cozens
2023-11-05 14:00 - 16:00 | Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, 247 Ricardo Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, l0s1j0, Canada
The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre presents the solo exhibit by Janet Horne-Cozens titled ‘The Power of Water.’ An opening reception will be held on Sunday November 5th from 2pm until 4pm with refreshments and nibbles provided. All are welcome to come view the captivating artworks with the opportunity to meet the artist.
Overview
The exhibit celebrates the mesmerizing allure of water. The artwork invites viewers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Ontario’s untamed landscapes, where pristine waterfalls, meandering rivers, and tranquil lakes come to life on canvas. This exhibition is a testament to the enduring bond between humanity and the untamed beauty of the Canadian wilderness, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature’s most captivating element.
In her work, Janet Horne-Cozens hones in on her deep connection to the beauty of Canada’s waterways. She aims to shed light on the delicate balance between humanity and nature, and the consequences of our actions on these invaluable ecosystems.
Each brushstroke and colour palette the artist employs reflect the ever-evolving stories of water. These visual narratives are meant to be both an homage to the natural world and a stark reminder of its fragility.

Red Ribbon Art Show and Sale
2023-11-04 19:00 - 23:00 | Fort Erie Leisureplex Banquet Hall, 3 Municipal Drive, Fort Erie, ontario, Canada
17th Annual Red Ribbon Art Show and Sale
Meet the Artists, Live music, Cash Bar, Appetizers, Silent Auction and more…

2023 Hope Gala with Howie Mandel
2023-11-03 18:00 - 19:00 | Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Join us as we celebrate our return to the gala scene in celebration of Pathstone Foundation. That night welcome Howie Mandel as our special keynote speaker. Howie will deliver his personal mental health journey to 700 guests.
Your night begins with a welcome cocktail reception, photo booth experience and slight of hand magic. Program will be led by Tim Denis of 610 CKTB Wine and beer service accompanies a 4-course gourmet meal.
A Pathstone client will share their personal story in our Mission Moment, to be followed by a LIVE Auction and LIVE Cash Auction. And finally, we will welcome Howie Mandel to the stage to deliver his keynote address.

November 1/23, 5:00 pm – Deadline – 2023 Canadian Open Data Awards
2023-11-01 | Online
The Canadian Open Data Society recognizes and celebrates excellence in open data in Canada through the Canadian Open Data Awards.
Nominate Open Data projects and initiatives in Canada that have stood out to you.
The call for applications runs until November 1, 2023 at 5:00 pm. The process to apply is fast and painless. Full details are available on the Canadian Open Data Society website. https://www.opendatasociety.ca/open-data-awards-call-for-nominations-2023

Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region Presents Community Talks: Art Workshop
2023-10-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Kiwanis Aquatics Centre (Irene Locke Room), 425 Carlton Street, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2M 4W8, Canada
Join us each month as we connect with dementia community partners for interactive workshops that promote positive brain health and well-being.
This month, we will be joined by Frida Create Art for an art workshop that explores wellness through art. Supplies included and no art experience required.
Register online at alzheimerniagara.ca or call our office at 905-687-3914.

St. Catharines Downtown Association: Halloween Candy Trail
2023-10-28 12:00 - 15:00 | Downtown St. Catharines
The FREE Downtown. St. Catharines Hallowe’en Candy Trail returns Saturday, October 28th from 12pm – 3pm!
Trick-or-treat at Downtown Businesses, meet your favourite characters, check out a haunted house, kids activities, the Cozy Bones Handmade Halloween Market + more!
Head to http://www.mydowntown.ca to learn more.

Divine Favour Healthcare Staffing Inc presents Brains in Motion
2023-10-27 14:00 - 18:00 | Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, 1366 York Road, St. David's, Ontario, Canada
On Friday, October 27th, 2023, from 2:00pm to 6:00pm, we will gather at the exquisite “Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery”, nestled at 1366 York Road, St. Davids, Ontario, in the beautiful Niagara region.
This remarkable event is being organized by Divine Favour Healthcare Staffing Inc. in celebration of our 5th anniversary of providing compassionate care to our cherished community. “Brains in Motion” promises an afternoon filled with “Inspiring Speakers,” “Dazzling Performances from around the World,” a “Culinary Extravaganza” complemented by fine wines, a delightful Coffee Corner, Live Music, Silent Auction, networking opportunities to forge meaningful connections, and much more! The best part is that all proceeds will be dedicated to supporting the Alzheimer’s Society of Niagara Region’s vital programs and services.
Tickets for “Brains in Motion” are priced at $118.00/pp
Vendor tables available for $250.00, and various sponsorship packages to explore as well.
For vendor tables and sponsorships please call: 647.766.5394.
For your convenience we have provided a link of the event that further highlights the details and the opportunity to participate.
Eventbrite Link: Invite Link
Website: https://www.divinefavourhomecare.ca
This event is not just about celebration; it’s a heartfelt endeavor to make a difference. Every dollar raised will directly contribute to the Alzheimer’s Society of Niagara Region, an organization committed to advocating for and supporting individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Their mission is to ensure access to a wide array of resources and support, ultimately alleviating the personal and societal impact of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias while advancing vital research.
We firmly believe that quality care should be accessible to every member of our community when needed, and your support is instrumental in achieving this aspiration.
We would be deeply honored by your presence at this special event, and your ticket purchase or sponsorship will be a meaningful contribution to the lives of those we serve.
To learn more about this exceptional opportunity, please visit our event page at https://www.divinefavourhomecare.ca/.

Mapping Early Modern Italy: Florence and Bologna, 1500-1700
2023-10-25 14:00 - 15:30 | Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
The Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Studies Speaker Series presents Mapping Early Modern Italy: Florence and Bologna, 1500-1700 by Professor Colin Rose
All welcome, light refreshments served
Located at Cairns 207 (CRNS207)
Brock University, Main Campus
1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way
St. Catharines

Portage Medical Family Health Team (PMFHT) Walking Group: Every Other Wednesday
2023-10-25 13:00 - 14:00 | Gale Centre, 5152 Thorold Stone Rd, Niagara Falls, on, Canada
Take that first step to engage in regular exercise with Portage Medical Family Health Team. Meet others in your community and gain some support for coping with everyday life. Our goal is to have a positive impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of everyone. All ages and fitness levels are welcome! Every other Wednesday @ 1:00. To register for our BeneFITs Walking Group,
Call 905.354.9393, ext. 1
Event Date and Time: October 25, 2023 @ 1:00, November 8, 2023 @ 1:00, November 22, 2023 @ 1:00, December 6, 2023 @ 1:00 and December 20, 2023 @ 1:00
Location: Gale Centre – 5152 Thorold Stone Road, Niagara Falls, Rink 1 second flr.
