Hope for Community Development builds brighter futures with support from the RISE Fund

In the heart of the Chandler-Mowat neighbourhood, a powerful movement is growing. A movement rooted in resilience, belonging and opportunity. Hope for Community Development, a community-led organization, is making a lasting impact by empowering marginalized youth and newcomer families.

Thanks to support from the City of Kitchener’s Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund, Hope for Community Development has strengthened its entrepreneurship programming, helping youth build pathways to success. The organization’s tailored programs foster leadership, creativity and economic empowerment, ensuring young people have the tools and support they need to thrive.

Learn more:

Apply now!

The RISE Fund is now accepting applications for the fall 2025 intake. The fund supports community-led organizations, initiatives and events that reduce inequities and increase opportunities for Black, Indigenous and racialized communities in Kitchener.

Applications can be submitted online and in person at all City of Kitchener community centres. Paper copies are also available at all community centres upon request. Applications can be submitted in languages other than English, with translation or interpretation services will be provided upon request. The deadline to apply is Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

Apply now: https://equity.blitzen.com/form/RISE-Fund

For more information, contact:

Katie Rieger

Communications and Marketing Associate