Fundraising

Year End Fundraising Appeal – 2024

As we approach the end of the year, we want to reflect on the profound impact that Spectrum has had on the lives of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in our community. Our work is guided by our core values of accountability, advocacy, collaboration, diversity, equity, inclusion and well being.


This year, Spectrum has served 6,810 participants, facilitated at least 1,485 volunteer hours, and subsidized the cost of at least 265 counseling sessions to those in need of support. But our work is not done. For many, Spectrum is not just a support organization – it is the only place where they can be their authentic selves without fear. Over a quarter of youth in our community have faced violence because of their gender identity, and 10% because of their sexual identity. This places the well-being and lives of 2SLGBTQIA+ people on the line.

“Just having a space I can exist without worry or anxiety where everyone understands certain things without needing explanation. It’s a lifeline.” – Program Participant


While we provide essential support to our community, many of the 50 programs Spectrum runs remain unfunded. This means that our programs depend entirely on the generosity of people like you to provide a safe place of acceptance and belonging.

Your donation allows us to continue and expand this crucial work. By contributing, you bring connection, community and hope to 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals across Waterloo Region. You create a community where everyone is cared for, compassion flourishes and where no one has to hide who they are. Many of us take for granted the simple right to exist without fear. Your support ensures that more 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals can live freely and proudly in a community that values them.


Together, we can build a future where diversity is celebrated and no one is left behind. We hope you will help us to continue this mission. We are excited to announce that we have a donor who will match all donations up to $7,000! That means your donation of $25 becomes $50! Or your gift of $100 becomes $200!


Thank you for considering a donation to Spectrum. Your generosity inspires hope, creates connection and changes lives.

You can make a donation online here

You can make a donation to our endowment fund here

Or you can mail in this form with a cheque

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Events, Fundraising

POWWR Serves Up a Smashing Success for Spectrum!

We’re thrilled to share the news of an amazing event held on May 18th, 2024! Pickleball of Waterloo Wellington Region (POWWR), a local organization, hosted a player clinic and tournament in support of Spectrum. It was a fantastic day filled with friendly competition, community spirit, and of course, raising awareness for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

The morning kicked off with a two-hour clinic led by skilled POWWR coaches. A total of 56 participants eagerly learned and honed their skills, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

In the afternoon, things got competitive! POWWR volunteers transformed the space into a tournament zone, with matches happening across 12 gyms. A whopping 63 individuals battled it out on the court, showcasing their athleticism and sportsmanship.

But the true victory lies beyond the scoreboards. The event was a resounding success, raising almost $6,000 in support of Spectrum’s vital work in the Waterloo Region. We are incredibly grateful to POWWR for their dedication and generosity.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the POWWR volunteers who went above and beyond to make this event possible. Their hard work and enthusiasm created a welcoming and fun environment for everyone involved.

A huge thank you to our prize sponsors who helped elevate the experience for our participants:

  • Dr. Kyle Simpson, BSc, DC
  • Marlowe Grooming & General
  • The Underdog Dance Corp.
  • Kazoku Martial Arts Centre
  • Carly Pettinger & Kara McLean
  • HomeFit Exercise Equipment
  • CrossFit 1827
  • AOK Craft Beer + Arcade
  • Together We’re Bitter Co-operative Brewing
  • Wages Corp
  • Together Again Eyewear
  • POWWR
  • Bob’s Rackets
  • City of Waterloo
  • Black Knight
  • Canada Wide Sports

We also extend our deepest gratitude to our event sponsors:

This event would not be possible without the incredible support of the Pickleball of Waterloo Wellington Region (POWWR). Thanks to the generous gift of time from their volunteers, Spectrum benefitted from nearly all the ticket sales. A special shout-out to Fiona, whose vision for the event brought it to life!

We are incredibly grateful to The City of Waterloo’s Reconciliation, Equity, Accessibility, Diversity, and Inclusion (READI) team for generously covering 100% of the rental cost of RIM Park (valued at $2,373.92). Their support demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within our community.

For a glimpse into the excitement of the day, be sure to check out the CTV News Kitchener coverage. We also had coverage from CBC News and City News. 

We at Spectrum are deeply appreciative of POWWR’s and the City of Waterloo’s incredible support. Together, we can continue fostering a vibrant and inclusive community for everyone in Waterloo Region!

Extra thanks to the following individuals for their event support:

Each of these individuals went above and beyond in some way to support our event. While we tried to list everyone, but there were so many people that helped to bring this event together:

  • Fiona MacGregor (POWWR)
  • Troy Dettwiler (Sports Coordinator, Spectrum)
  • Anette Happel (POWWR)
  • James MacLeod (City of Waterloo)
  • Scott Williams (Executive Director, Spectrum)
  • Mattie James (Facilitator, Spectrum)
  • Kita Pinheiro (Facilitator, Spectrum)
  • Jesse Hafermehl (Facilitator, Spectrum)
  • Alex (Volunteer, Spectrum)
  • Fabian Fletcher (Volunteer and Operations Manager, Spectrum)
  • Dorothy McCabe (Mayor, City of Waterloo)
  • Brian Hill (READI Member, City of Waterloo)
  • Amy Ross (READI Member, City of Waterloo)
  • Paulina Rodriguez (READI Member, City of Waterloo)
  • Adam Nerger (READI Member, City of Waterloo)
  • Bardish Chagger (MP, Waterloo)
  • Jillian Fleming (City of Waterloo)
  • Iliana Medellin (City of Waterloo)
  • Erica Brennan (Canada Wide Sports)
  • Stephanie Cormier (Unique Embroidery Promotions & Awards)
  • Shelby Knox (CTV News)
  • Justine Fraser (City News)
  • Kate Bueckert (CBC News)
  • Lexi Salt (Facilitator, Spectrum)
  • Anthony Nguyen (Conestoga College)

Wrap Up

So again, thank you! Whether you shared the event with a friend, attended, or made a donation, we appreciate the impact you made on our community. If you would like to help out in the future with this event, please reach out to our Sports Coordinator: troy@ourspectrum.com

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Events, Fundraising

Pride Pickleball Fundraiser Tournament 2024

Spectrum Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space, is proud to announce the first Pride Pickleball Fundraiser Tournament and Player Clinic in Canada, set to take place on May 18, 2024 at RIM Park in Waterloo.

The Pride Pickleball Fundraiser Tournament and Player Clinic aims to raise awareness and funds in support of Spectrum’s vital programming, which serves, affirms, and supports the well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in Waterloo Region.

Here’s the Poster you can share with your friends.

Schedule

TimeEvent
8:30 AMPlayer Clinic Registration Opens
9 AM – 11 AMPlayer Clinic
11:30 AMTournament Registration Opens
12 – 4:30Tournament

Purchase Tickets

Purchase Tickets Here!

If you can’t make it, please cancel your ticket so that we can fill your spot from our waitlist. If you need to cancel the day of the tournament, please email troy@ourspectrum.com

Event Sponsors

This event would not be possible without the support of Pickleball of Waterloo Wellington Region (POWWR). With the gift of time from their volunteers, SPECTRUM is able to benefit from nearly all the ticket sales.

The City of Waterloo’s Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (READI) team has generously agreed to cover 100% of the rental cost of RIM Park (valued over $2,500), demonstrating their commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the community.

Prize Sponsors

Each Prize Sponsor donated $100 in the form of a donation to Spectrum or through a donation of services/products with a value of $100. Again, with their support we’ve been able to raise more money for the program.

Thank you:

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Fundraising, SPECTRUM News

Fundraising with Factory Shoe

We’re excited to announce a new collaboration with Factory Shoe that will raise funds to support Spectrum’s programs for 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Waterloo Region. Factory Shoe has provided us with $5 fundraiser cards. When they are used to make purchases at Factory Shoe of $35 or more, Factory Shoe will make a $5 donation to Spectrum!

We asked about how Factory Shoe ensures its stores are safe and welcoming to 2SLGBTQIA+ people. They have a Diversity Policy that demonstrates a commitment to creating a workplace that values and respects individual differences. Factory Shoe has clear policies in place to ensure inclusion and prevent harassment for all customers, including 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. These policies are designed to maintain a safe and respectful atmosphere for all visitors. Their employees are well-versed in these policies and are committed to upholding them. 

Factory Shoe understands that the experiences of transgender individuals in retail settings can be challenging, and they are dedicated to providing a different, positive experience.

You can pick up your $5 Fundraising Card at Spectrum any time we are open for programming! Visit the Rainbow Community Calendar for details or email info@ourspectrum.com to arrange a pick-up time.

Note, the cards have no cash value.

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Events, Fundraising

Kidunified Puzzle Fundraiser

Spectrum is grateful to be receiving the proceeds of sales of Kidunified’s Children’s Makers Market Puzzle from May 17, 2023-June 19, 2023!

Kidunified is a local woman-led social enterprise. Their debut puzzle is called Children’s Makers Market and it was created with big hearts, and mindfully for kids — it is diverse, sustainable, bilingual and fun! The goal is for more children to see pieces of themselves and their community while they play.  

Ashley Kizis shares, “Kidunified is for every child, including my own. I want my child to continue to learn how good it feels when we include, and treat each other equally.  It is important to me that he sees me learning to become a better ally also — to grow myself, alongside him. So much love, research and community input went into the creation of this puzzle, so that more children would hopefully feel represented in the toys they play with.”

This fundraiser is beginning on May 17th, the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, a day that draws attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ people in more than 130 countries around the world. 

As Spectrum works towards its vision of an inclusive community where all 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are welcomed, celebrated, and supported as their authentic selves we love discovering other organizations that share our values. We’re excited to bring awareness of this wonderful puzzle to the community and grateful to our friends at Kidunified for generously donating the proceeds from the next month’s sales to us.

The Children’s Makers Market Puzzle is available for purchase here for $34.99 +HST. Puzzles can be picked up at Spectrum on June 19th between 12pm-7pm or, select “delivery” and a volunteer will drop-off your puzzle between the purchase date and June 19th.

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Fundraising, SPECTRUM News

Spectrum’s Rainbow Community Fund

Spectrum launches endowment fund with Waterloo Region Community Foundation

Spectrum Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space has been providing programs and services for 2SLGBTQIA+ people since 2012. They provide more than 30 different groups and activities each month, including peer support groups, social/recreational programming, and training.

Spectrum’s Rainbow Community Fund is being launched with an investment of $5,000.

“We are celebrating our 10th anniversary,” says Executive Director, Scott Williams, “and we are planning to be in the community for many years to come. Spectrum’s Rainbow Community Fund has been established to help provide financial stability to the organization in the long-term.”

Spectrum’s Rainbow Community Fund is one of over 400 funds held by Waterloo Region Community Foundation (WRCF). These funds generate income that is then distributed to support a broad range of charitable causes within our community.

“We are very pleased to be able to support Spectrum as they work to build up the resources to deliver programming in the community to meet current and future needs,” says Eric Avner, President & Chief Executive Officer, Waterloo Region Community Foundation. “Endowment funds like this help us work towards our vision of a sustainable, equitable, thriving community.”

“At this time of year, we are reminded that many 2SLGBTQIA+ people do not have supportive families to gather with,” says Williams. “Spectrum provides a much-needed safe space where members of the rainbow community can find a sense of belonging. We are so grateful to the community for the financial support through individual, family, and corporate donations that makes our work possible.”

Donations can be made to Spectrum’s Rainbow Community Fund at www.wrcf.ca/spectrum. For more information about contributing to the fund, please contact WRCF at 519-725-1806 or info@wrcf.ca. If you want to learn more about Spectrum and the programs that we offer in community please contact info@ourspectrum.com

About Spectrum:

Founded in 2012, Spectrum offers over 30 different groups and activities each month. Spectrum is an organization that serves, affirms, and supports the well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in Waterloo Region and the broader community through peer support, community partnerships, education and training, resources, and events. www.ourspectrum.com

About Waterloo Region Community Foundation

Waterloo Region Community Foundation (WRCF) collaborates with partners to create sustainable, equitable and thriving communities. We connect regionally and locally, working with three cities and four townships – to include the people and places across our region. Together, we develop forward-thinking innovative solutions and seize opportunities to meet current and future needs of our community. We make philanthropy easy for individuals and companies to support organizations and issues they care about. WRCF is focused on Granting, Impact Investing and Convening to make measurable and sustainable impacts. Gifts are directed to WRCF’s endowed funds that drive positive change through grants with the income generated being distributed in partnership with Fundholders to support a wide range of charitable causes within our community. A portion of the endowed funds are also used for impact investments that deliver both financial returns as well as positive social or environmental outcomes. As a leading community-building organization, we also work to amplify voices and issues of importance by convening conversations and sharing information, while approaching our work with an equity mindset. www.wrcf.ca

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Awareness, Fundraising

Why more Canadians are leaving a gift to charity in their Wills

We are lucky. Supporters of SPECTRUM are thoughtful individuals, who share a concern for 2SLGBTQ+ well-being and are committed to building a better future.

Often people think about contributing to the causes they care about with monthly donations or volunteering time, but there is a growing number of people who are going one step further to leave a gift to charity in their Wills. These are ordinary Canadians who’ve realized they can make a powerful contribution that will last for generations to come, without taking away from the resources they or their families need.

This new mindset among Canadians of all ages has been triggered, to some extent, by the intensity of recent global events and the realization that it’s possible to do more just by giving in a different way.

In fact, if more Canadians left even a minuscule percentage of their estate to charity, the sum of all their efforts could represent as much as $40 billion to advance causes like 2SLGBTQ+ rights and well-being.

When you look into it, you may be surprised to learn that a donation of as little as a 1% of your estate can result in a bigger contribution than you ever thought possible. You are still leaving 99% of your estate to support your loved ones, and you’re not using any of the money you need now.

The best part is that leaving a gift in your Will can be a very simple process. Here are a few suggestions that can help you take the next steps:

  1. Calculate your donation. You can determine how much you want to leave to charity, and how much you want your loved ones to receive, with a simple calculation. You can make that calculation using the Legacy Calculator tool developed by Will Power, a national public education campaign designed to inspire Canadians to think differently about charitable giving.
  2. Discover the tax benefits. Did you know the Canadian government has created some of the best tax incentives in the world to encourage more giving to charity, especially from your estate? Just to cite an example, this article illustrates how a couple’s financial advisor helped them give big to charity and take advantage of the tax benefits, all while leaving a sizeable inheritance for their daughters.
  3. Ask a financial advisor. Consulting a financial expert can help you maximize your donation and ensure it works in your favour. You can use Will Power’s Financial Advisor Finder to match with an expert in your region. There is also a handy guide available to start the conversation with your advisor here.
  4. Find out how to keep the love going. Learn how a gift in your Will to SPECTRUM would be used to advance 2SLGBTQ+ well-being here. Or you can contact us to find out more.

Who would have thought of a Will as a powerful tool to make change in the world? But more and more Canadians are harnessing the power of their Wills to become larger-than-life philanthropists who continue to inspire others and make an impact on the future. Join the movement and keep the love going for what matters to you!

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