Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre Inc.

Overview

The Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre Inc. (KWMC) is a non-profit organization and a registered charity in Canada, with the business registration number 118987601RR0001. It has been serving the community of Kitchener-Waterloo since its inception in 1967, initially as part of the K-W Folk Arts Council. The organization plays a critical role in fostering inclusion and celebrating cultural diversity in Waterloo Region.

Early Beginnings

The early roots of the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre trace back to a group of newcomers who formed the K-W Folk Arts Council in the late 1960s. This group organized the first Multicultural Festival in Kitchener-Waterloo. Over time, the organization expanded its mandate to provide assistance to newcomers, eventually offering interpretation and translation services to both public and private sector clients.

Mission and Services

The KWMC is dedicated to fostering inclusion by providing settlement services, programs, and interpretation supports to the community while celebrating its cultural diversity. The centre assists newcomers in finding employment, housing, and improving their English language skills to facilitate a successful integration into Canadian society. They offer a wide range of culturally and linguistically appropriate services to various groups, including Canadian-born citizens, naturalized citizens, permanent residents, refugees, international students, and temporary foreign workers.

Community Engagement

The centre continues to host one of the largest Multicultural Festivals in Canada annually, highlighting the diversity of the region. It works closely with other agencies, businesses, and government levels to ensure successful integration of newcomers into the community, recognizing that integration is a two-way process requiring adjustments from both newcomers and the community.

Governance

The Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre is overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors, which is elected from and by its general membership. The organization values responsibility, inclusivity, and community collaboration, striving to create a welcoming environment for all individuals.

Recognition and Activities

As a registered charity, the centre benefits from the support of various funders. Its activities extend beyond Kitchener-Waterloo, supporting thousands of clients across Waterloo Region and beyond. Many of its settlement services are provided in partnership with community libraries, further enhancing accessibility.