A Message From Our Founding Director

Celebrating 5 Years of Kind Minds Family Wellness

As I pause to reflect on the journey of Kind Minds Family Wellness (KMFW), I am filled with profound gratitude and a deep sense of purpose. Five years ago, what began as a vision that children, youth, adults, and seniors in our communities’ deserved spaces that honour culture, identity, and belonging has now blossomed into a thriving organization. From our earliest days as a fully virtual team, we have grown into a vibrant hub with multiple community partners and collaborations. This growth reminds me every day that meaningful change cannot and must not be done in silos.

Our foundations have been clear from the beginning: cultural grounding, community engagement, and research. These guide us in designing programs that not only serve immediate needs but also build resilience and capacity across generations. We have witnessed the transformation of youth who joined us in middle school, then graduated high school, settled into universities, and those in high school are now excelling as undergraduates and graduates; with some connecting with us as undergraduate students even entering doctoral programs. Their journeys embody the breaking of barriers that have historically limited Black youth and are living proof of what happens when support, advocacy, and opportunity meet determination.

Equally inspiring has been the growth of our volunteers. Many began by giving their time in small ways and have since become the roots that keep this organization strong. Some joining us as staff, others as interns, and still many continuing to volunteer with deep dedication. Their work has been nothing short of extraordinary. They remind us that service is not simply about giving hours, but about shaping futures, strengthening programs, and walking alongside community members with compassion and care.

But KMFW is more than a place that gives, it is also a protected space for those who give of themselves, a place where advocacy is collective, challenges are validated, and every success is celebrated together. Through family-based programming and intergenerational gatherings, we have witnessed not only friendships but true camaraderie: people finding belonging, creating memories, and carrying forward the richness of culture. KMFW has become a place where settlement support, essential needs, and advocacy are grounded in dignity, and where culture is not just preserved but celebrated as the heart of resilience.

In the Region of Waterloo, KMFW is uniquely positioned to provide Afrocentric counseling and wellness support;services that reflect the lived realities of Black families and are often missing from mainstream systems. We are intentional about weaving wellness and psychoeducation into every program, ensuring that no matter the entry point (be it youth leadership, senior engagement, family settlement, or skill-building) participants leave with tools for healing, resilience, and growth. This holistic and culturally grounded approach is not only a service; it is a model of advocacy and empowerment that strengthens the fabric of our community.

Often, we are the “go-to” place for community members seeking resources, support, or simply a space to be seen. Even with limited resources, we have navigated challenges with creativity and determination; always with the support of our trusted partners who stand with us in ensuring no one is left behind.

Looking back, I see impact. Looking forward, I see possibility. KMFW stands as a Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-mandated grassroots organization. One deeply rooted in the realities of our communities. Yet we are also committed to ensuring that our doors, programs, and advocacy extend to all, regardless of racial identity. Culture, equity, and belonging are not exclusive, they are the roots of inclusive growth. Whether through our global cooking classes that nourish both body and spirit, our leadership and career readiness programs, or our research, internship, and volunteer pathways, we continue to create spaces for connection, healing, and thriving.

As we celebrate five years, I am reminded that this work is only possible because of the people who walk this journey with us. To our staff and volunteers, your dedication and creativity are the lifeblood of our programs. To our partners, funders, and sponsors, your belief in our mission has allowed us to scale ideas into impact. And most importantly, to our service users, you are our teachers. Your feedback, your challenges, and your triumphs shape our evaluations, sharpen our strategies, and keep us accountable.

My vision and hope for the years to come is that our community continues to invest in this work so it can remain sustainable for generations. There are many ways to do so: through financial contributions, in-kind donations, sponsorships, partnerships, and volunteering your time and skills. Every act of support makes this collective journey possible.

To those who wish to walk with us; whether through support, collaboration, or contribution, we welcome you with open arms. KMFW is not just an organization; it is a community. We invite you to be part of this journey, to celebrate culture, to build belonging, and to strengthen the bonds of camaraderie that make us resilient.

Celebrate 5 years with us by investing in the next 5. Give, partner, or volunteer—your support keeps our community thriving. Please visit here to learn more about donating and supporting our work.

You can learn more about our programs and services here.

In solidarity,

Ajirioghene Evi, Founding Director