As I look back on the past few months, I’m reminded of the power of community. Our 2026 Annual General Meeting in January was a special opportunity to look back on 25 years of impact. Together, we’ve created safe, affordable homes for 258 individuals and families across Waterloo Region. And because of your generous support of the New Beginnings campaign, we’ll welcome 20 more households this fall.
These achievements belong to all of you who continue to stand with us in so many ways. Whether you’re a rider gearing up for Out-Spok’n, a volunteer sewing comforters to welcome new tenants, or one of the voices speaking up for affordable housing, your actions make a real difference!
The need in our community is growing, but so is the momentum — and that’s because of you. Thank you for being part of this work and for helping build a stronger, more caring community for everyone.
Gratefully,
Dan Driedger
Executive Director
P.S. To help celebrate our 25th anniversary, we’ll be bringing you more stories about Beyond Housing tenants, volunteers, partners and donors. We’ve renamed our newsletter to reflect this focus. Watch your inbox or follow us on Facebook, Bluesky or LinkedIn for more Stories From Home!
What's new at New Beginnings?
It’s hard to believe that five months ago, the New Beginnings site on Frederick Street was an empty lot. Today, the buildings are taking shape, with crews installing windows, wrapping the exterior, and lifting roof sections into place.
Because of your support, 20 families will soon call these townhouses home. Your generosity is helping create safe, welcoming housing — and changing the lives of the people who will live here. See the latest photos from the construction site.
A look back at our AGM
Our 2026 AGM was more than a meeting. It was a celebration of 25 years of community support and real impact. From a milestone anniversary to a campaign that exceeded its goal, this year’s AGM showed what’s possible when we work together. Read the highlights.
Riding for "the welfare of the city"
On Saturday, June 13th, 87-year-old Martin Buhr will be participating in his final Out-Spok’n fundraising ride. Join Martin to build homes, fight poverty and care for our community. Read the story and learn how you can ride or support.
Creating comfort and community
A handmade comforter may seem like a simple gift, but for new tenants at New Beginnings, it carries a powerful message of welcome, care, and belonging. Learn how Kathy Bauman coordinated the first comforter project at Village Road and how she and volunteers at local churches are repeating it at Frederick Street. Read Kathy’s story.
You can build a better future
Thank you for standing with Beyond Housing. Your generosity is helping move affordable housing forward at a time when it’s needed more than ever. Across Waterloo Region, challenges like rising construction costs, longer approval times, and limits on water infrastructure are slowing progress, but your support keeps projects moving and gives hope to people who need it most.
Here are clear, practical ways you can continue making a difference. With every action — big or small — you are helping build the momentum needed to create lasting change. Thank you!