The Upstreamers
Meet the changemakers using Upstream Funding to transform the community for the better
Waterloo Region is home to incredible community organizers, advocates and leaders who spend every day working to create a community where everyone belongs and can thrive.
In 2022, the Region launched the Upstream Fund with the transformational intent of shifting power and resources to the community. By centering community voices, we are creating a Region where everyone knows they are welcome and valued.
At the core of this project are changemakers. Together they are improving lives by addressing root causes to some of the biggest issues/ or challenges facing our community today. Thanks to their collective efforts, we are seeing incredible change.
As the project has grown, many recipients have started referring to themselves as Upstreamers.
Meet the Upstreamers
Meet the Upstreamers — Chantal
The work of Upstreamers is vast and varied — to date 74 different organizations in both rural and urban communities have received funding to tackle issues like Reconciliation, accessibility, anti-hate, inclusive spaces, employment skills, mental health, and so much more.
By design, and flowing from the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan, the Upstream Fund has been centering First Nations, Inuit and Métis, African, Caribbean and Black-identifying, racialized, and other communities who continue to face systemic barriers and discrimination.
Because of this, Upstreamers are collectively creating a ripple effect to improve wellbeing and create a community where everyone belongs.
Meet the Upstreamers — Dan
In 2024 the Upstream Fund will open applications for the third time. Creating lasting change takes time, and so much has happened in just under two years.
As the Region grows with care, it is clear the Upstreamers are not just prepared for, but welcome change.
The Upstream Fund is one of the ways the Region is using community collaboration to create more equitable access to services and opportunities.
Meet the Upstreamers — Rosslyn and Kristine
Whether you want to be part of the change, or follow the journey, stay tuned to our page for updates on this incredible initiative and the Upstreamers making it happen.