Today is World Refugee Day, a time to commemorate the strength and courage of millions of refugees around the world. This year, UNHCR is calling on the global community to show solidarity with refugees by taking action to support them. There are a number of ways you can help, including donating money, volunteering your time, or simply spreading awareness.
CCORIC and COMPASS
We are proud to have partnered with CCORIC (Community Coalition On Refugee and Immigrant Concerns), “an active and engaged volunteer-based community group in Waterloo Region.”
This year, CCORIC is hosting an event and awards ceremony where our Executive Director, Shelley Campagnola, will be a guest speaker. We would love to see you there!
At the event, CCORIC will also be announcing the 2022 winners of Waterloo Region’s annual World Refugee Day Awards of Distinction. These awards recognize outstanding local community members with lived refugee experience and volunteers dedicated to working with refugees who have contributed to making Waterloo Region a welcoming and inclusive community.
The World Refugee Day Community Event is held Monday, June 20th from 7:00-9:00 PM at THEMUSEUM (10 King St W, Kitchener). It is a free event, doors open at 6:30pm where you can view the exhibit.
How Can You Get Involved?
Interested in helping refugee claimants? Here are a few ways you can make an impact:
1. Share on Social Media
Stand with people seeking safety and their rights this year by sharing your own photo in the COMPASS template. Tag us in your photos to be featured in our World Refugee Day gallery! Customize your World Refugee Day photo through Canva.
2. Ride for Refuge Fundraiser (link coming soon)
A family-friendly fundraiser where you can walk or ride along the banks of the Grand River (10k bike or 5k walk).
3. Volunteer With One Of Our Programs
Join our mission in helping refugee claimants. Get involved with one of our three programs: Assist, Accompany, or Advocate.
4. Stand Against Judgement
You can help in even the smallest ways. In your day-to-day walk, stand against those projecting negative stereotypes and those who misjudge others.
5. Hire Refugees
If you run a business, hire local refugees and refugee claimants within your community. They are able to help you and in turn, you will be helping them and giving them a chance.
6. Donate
Did you know you can donate and help us support Refugee Claimants? Find out where and how to donate here.
If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us here at COMPASS.
World Refugee Day Awards of Distinction
This year, one of our own volunteers is a recipient of an award!
