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SPECTRUM is Waterloo Region's first-ever rainbow community space.
Purpose
- To establish, maintain and operate a facility for the 2SLGBTQ+/Rainbow community that is inclusive to the general public.
- To educate the general public in issues and better understanding of the 2SLGBTQ+/Rainbow community with a specific focus on positive level of engagement and relationships in the community.
- To develop training and education programs for the 2SLGBTQ+/Rainbow community.
- To liaise with other charitable, non-profit community and government agencies and organizations in developing training and educational programs for people in the community.
Strategic Priorities (2024-2027)
Sustainability and Stability: Spectrum is committed to becoming a more stable and sustainable organization. We will work to become an equitable employer of choice through fundraising and fund development, community collaboration, and partnerships. Being an equitable employer will give us the capacity to better meet the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Waterloo Region. Spectrum will continue to work towards an inclusive community where all 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are welcomed, celebrated, and supported as their authentic selves.
Accessibility and Inclusion in Programs and Personnel: Spectrum is committed to continuing our journey to becoming a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible organization that is welcoming and relevant to members of all 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. We will create programs and recruit personnel using an anti-oppressive and intersectional framework. We will prioritize accessibility, inclusivity, equity, and well-being – celebrating and affirming our diverse community.
Community and Advocacy: Spectrum is committed to continuing to build and maintain strong relationships and partnerships that increase capacity to serve 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Waterloo Region. Spectrum acknowledges the importance of public policy dialogue and development activities, where reasonable, to advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ people having healthy and vibrant communities where they feel a sense of belonging.
Vision
An inclusive community where all 2SLGBTQ+ individuals are welcomed, celebrated, and supported as their authentic selves.
Mission
SPECTRUM is an organization that serves, affirms, and supports the well-being of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in Waterloo Region and the broader community through peer support, community partnerships, education and training, resources, and events.
Values
Learn more about SPECTRUM's Board of Directors and Committees:
Spectrum Staff
Fabian Fletcher (he/they):
Volunteer and Operations Manager
Fabian Fletcher is a queer-identified Black community leader and advocate for 2SLGBTQIIA+ communities in Waterloo Region. Fabian brings with him a passion for community development and health equity for Black, Indigenous, and Racialized communities.
Starting his career working in HIV prevention and education with GBMSM, Fabian developed a love for community involvement, and working within the nonprofit sector to address systemic harms and barriers marginalized communities face. He then moved into community health care, working at HQ Toronto, a sexual health clinic aimed at providing culturally competent and accessible health services for guys into guys and trans and non-binary folks, providing operational support and overseeing the day-to-day clinical operations. Fabian is the Volunteer and Operations Manager for Spectrum and sits as President of the Board for tri-Pride Community Association.
Scott Williams (he/him):
Executive Director
Scott Williams is the Executive Director of Spectrum Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space. He holds a BA in English Language & Literature from Wilfrid Laurier University, and a diploma in Film Production from Vancouver Film School. He has completed certificates in Diversity & Inclusion Fundamentals and Anti-Racism with the Canadian Centre for Diversity & Inclusion. He is a graduate of the Engage!KW program from the KW Community Foundation, and the Leadership Waterloo Region class of 2023. Scott started with Spectrum in 2013 as a volunteer librarian, then sat on the Board of Directors in 2014-2015 before returning as an employee in 2021. Scott served for several years as the Communications & Development Coordinator at KW Counselling Services (now Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health) where he was part of the OK2BME Team. He volunteers with the Community Investments Team at United Way Waterloo Region Communities, and serves as co-chair of the Waterloo Region District School Board’s Equity and Inclusion Advisory Group.
Spectrum News
LGBTQ2+ Terminology 101
Terminology reference guide to assist understanding basic LGBTQ2+ terminology and the issues affecting them
Spectrun History
Spectrum was founded in 2012 as Waterloo Region’s first Rainbow Community Space