Thank you!
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating the rich diversity of our community! The success of this event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, grantors, local businesses, volunteers, families, friends, and YOU – our wonderful community.
We captured so many unforgettable moments throughout the day, and we’d love to share them with you!
As the founder of H.O.P.E., I want to begin by acknowledging the Indigenous peoples who have cared for and nurtured the land we stand upon for countless generations. We honor the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, and Chonnonton peoples and their deep connections to this place we call home.
We recognize that the past holds the pain of injustices and hardships faced by Indigenous communities due to colonization. As someone from the BIPOC community, I am eager to listen and learn from their stories, traditions, and knowledge. Their wisdom holds valuable insights that can enrich our understanding of this land and its history.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion honours allyship with Indigenous communities as we take steps toward reconciliation. Together, let’s build a more inclusive and harmonious society where everyone feels valued and heard.
This territorial acknowledgment is not just a formality; it is a call to action. We will work hand in hand to support initiatives that empower Indigenous sovereignty, cultural resurgence, and self-determination. Together, we can contribute to a brighter future for all.
In gratitude and with a willingness to learn,
Abby Cooper
Founder
Hearts Open for Everyone (H.O.P.E.)
Elmira, Ontario
Powered by Knowledge, Driven by Compassion
HOPE is dedicated to improving the lives of our community by promoting a safe environment where all voices are heard, and improving equity through knowledge, support and mindfulness as it relates to diversity and inclusion.
“Cultivating empathy means fostering the growth of something. We have to acknowledge that empathy lives within all of us, and we need to create proper conditions for it to be active and alive.”
— Najwa Zebian
Programs and Workshops
HOPE is committed to empowering the growing and diverse community through thoughtfully curated
programs promoting racial inclusivity, knowledge, awareness and mindfulness.
Mindfulness
Our past and present experiences with racial or gender discrimination, trauma and grief can take a toll on us and affect how we react to social situations. We believe that mindfulness combined with DEI education can create a more inclusive community.
