HOPE (Hearts Open for Everyone) located in Elmira, Ontario aims to build knowledge, awareness, and mindfulness together as a growing, racially diverse community through thoughtfully curated programs. These programs will empower community members in Elmira and surrounding areas to advocate for themselves and others and assist them in making informed decisions that will help promote racial equity. 

The inaugural Multicultural Festival of Elmira (MFE), set for Saturday, September 16, 2023 from 12:00PM-5:00PM at Gibson Park (17 First St. W., Elmira, Ontario), will help broaden our knowledge and awareness of the culture that surrounds us, welcome newcomers to the Waterloo Region with open arms, celebrate various ethnic groups, bring awareness to diversity and inclusion-related workshops, services and vendors, and create a safe, welcoming and compassionate place where all people are welcome.

In an effort to bring value to community members, we as a volunteer group seek sponsorship to help support the costs of MFE’s activities and events, which will include: various performances from all parts of the world; food trucks highlighting various ethnic flavours; activities for kids, including face painting and a magician; local vendors that offer diversity-related products; and information booths from organizations that offer counselling, mental health, 2SLGBTQ+ and other useful services.