The City of Kitchener is looking for local community organizations to host small‑group conversations with residents. Community organizations are recognized as experts in reaching and engaging their communities. These conversations take place in trusted, familiar spaces and are led by organizations that already have strong relationships with their communities.

Participating organizations host a short, focused conversation using City‑provided questions and tools, then share anonymized feedback with the City. The insights gathered will help shape the City of Kitchener’s 2027–2030 Strategic Plan.

We can accept Expressions of Interest until 11:59 p.m. on May 29, 2026.

Eligible Community Organizations

Organizations must serve at least one of the following communities and be able to host a conversation with Kitchener community members:

• 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities
• Black Communities
• Indigenous Communities
• Newcomers or Refugees
• Older Adults
• Persons with Disabilities
• Persons with Low Income
• Racialized Communities – South Asian
• Racialized Communities – Other
• Religious Minorities

Organizations may identify with and serve more than one community.

Compensation

Each selected organization will receive:

• $300 honorarium for planning, hosting, facilitating and sharing conversation notes (for the organization)
• $15 Kitchener Market voucher for each participant (up to 12 participants)

Selection Process

Eligible organizations will be selected through a lottery‑based process, grouped by community category. This approach ensures fairness, transparency, and a diversity of community perspectives. If a selected organization is unable to participate, another eligible organization will be drawn.