The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region is a non-profit organization serving Waterloo Region's Caribbean community. Organized in 1975, we are committed to strengthening and enhancing the quality of life of families and individuals by providing culturally sensitive programs, support, resources, education and training.
As a registered charity, CCAWR advances education and relieves poverty within the Caribbean community and broader Waterloo Region — through training programs, scholarships, micro-grants, and cultural education.
"An empowered, collaborative Caribbean community that is fully engaged and equitably represented in the Region of Waterloo."
We believe that all persons, regardless of area(s) of diversity, are created equal, are inherently valuable and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. We affirm that all are equally entitled to full access to all societal transactions.
We are committed to maintaining the highest level of integrity in our conduct, transacting business in an open and transparent manner. We take personal responsibility for our actions and their outcomes.
We believe that resources should be equitably available to everyone in society. We are called on to be responsible stewards of such resources, utilizing them so they remain available to generations to come.
We believe in the rights of communities to organize and advocate for social change. We support the empowerment of disenfranchised communities in their call for the dismantling of all systems of oppression and racism.
We stand in solidarity with all cultural and heritage groups, especially those that are disenfranchised or underrepresented. We encourage the preservation of norms and cultural traditions that enrich our diverse society.
Five strategic priorities guide everything we do — ensuring CCAWR meets its objectives, operates in accordance with its mission, and fulfils its vision while holding true to its core values.
Leverage all forms of media (social and traditional), technological and communication tools, as well as strategic partnerships and alliances, to build brand capabilities and recognition within our heritage community and the wider community.
Establish and continuously monitor the proper implementation of policies and processes, ensuring accountability, fairness and transparency in the organization's relationship with all stakeholders — members, sponsors, donors, employees and the community.
Deliver strategic and well-executed events, programs and services that allow us to build a reputation as an organization committed to the delivery of quality user experience and community value.
Provide educational opportunities and service offerings that build capacity for members of our heritage community, and advocate for their right to exist as equals in a free, fair, safe and just society.
Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure the efficient and effective use of all resources entrusted to our care by our members, partners, donors, sponsors and volunteers — always in the best interest of our heritage community and the wider community.
The core commitments that guide our programming, advocacy, and community investment.