Updated and Republished February 2024.
Throughout February, in acknowledgement and celebration of Black History Month we shared information about local and national organizations and programs which serve Black individuals and the community. To keep these resources accessible for those who need them, we thought it would be useful to compile them in one place on our blog. Check out the list of resources below!
Local Organizations & Resources
African Family Revival Organization (AFRO)
AFRO is a grassroots, mutual aid organization serving the Black and African communities in Waterloo Region that enables all members of our community to participate in Canadian society as active citizens.
Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region
CCAWR – Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region
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.
The CCAWR aims to promote the social, cultural and economic interests of, and advocate for, the Caribbean community in the Region of Waterloo.
Kind Minds Family Wellness
KIND MINDS FAMILY WELLNESS: Culture + Research + Community Engagement
Kind Minds Family Wellness is a community organization which serves the Kitchener-Waterloo Region and surrounding area. Their specialty is in Afrocentric/culturally grounded counseling, education, employment, and research advocacy that addresses anti-Black racism and systemic oppression that: fosters Black community empowerment/resilience, supports community services navigation and guides the design and delivery of culturally suitable educational programs and groups for children, youth, caregivers/adults and seniors.
Rhythm and Blues Cambridge
Rhythm & Blues Cambridge (rhythmbluescambridge.com)
Rhythm and Blues Cambridge is a unique hub for community and engagement which supports and showcases the Black community in Cambridge. Their mission is to “to provide a safe engaging space to empower, inform and inspire the Black community in Cambridge.”
Provincial & National Organizations & Resources
BEAM: Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective
BEAM is an American national training, movement building, and grant making institution that is dedicated to the healing, wellness, and liberation of Black and marginalized communities. Although their programs operate in the United States, many of their resources and wellness tools may resonate with and be helpful for members of the Black community in Canada.
Black Mental Health Canada
The mission of Black Mental Health Canada is to improve the mental health and well-being of Black individuals and communities in Canada by advocating for culturally competent mental health services and promoting community education and empowerment. This is accomplished through a range of activities, such as public speaking engagements, workshops, and the provision of information and resources. The organization aims to address the disparities in mental health care faced by Black individuals and communities and promote culturally responsive mental health services.
Black Youth Helpline
Black Youth Helpline serves all youth and specifically responds to the need for a Black youth specific service, positioned and resourced to promote access to professional, culturally appropriate support for youth, families and schools. Services are driven by the voices of participants who contact the “Helpline.” “How can I help you?” Are therefore not simply spoken words. We are passionate about making a difference.
Pathways to Care
Pathways to Care is a community-driven and youth-led systems change project committed to transforming the mental healthcare system for Black children, youth and their families.
RiseUp by KidsHelpPhone
Support for Black youth: RiseUp powered by Kids Help Phone – Kids Help Phone
RiseUp powered by Kids Help Phone is a national, 24/7, bilingual e-mental health support service for Black youth. The service is free and available from coast to coast to coast. It’s a program built in collaboration with Black community partners, Kids Help Phone’s Black Advisory Council and people from across the Afro-diaspora of many different ages, genders and backgrounds
