“Why We Should Care”: A Conversation About Waterloo Region with Mike Farwell

“Why We Should Care”: A Conversation About Waterloo Region with Mike Farwell

In this episode of United Voices, Senior Director of Community Engagement & Communications Scott Hamilton sits down with longtime broadcaster and community champion Mike Farwell. Best known as the voice of the Kitchener Rangers and host of The Mike Farwell Show, Mike opens up about the personal experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to giving back—including how the loss of his sisters to cystic fibrosis inspired his Farwell for Hire fundraising campaign, now surpassing $1.3 million. Together, Scott and Mike explore why volunteerism matters, how sports can strengthen communities, finding motivation during tough times, and the balance between holiday consumerism and generosity. Filled with honesty, warmth, and barn-raiser spirit, this is an inspiring reminder that we are always stronger together—and that kindness costs nothing.

Behind the Mic with Onward Media: Storytelling that Gives Back

This special episode is a collaboration between United Voices and Onward Media Group, co-produced and shared with slight variations across both platforms. In this lively conversation, Darren Bondy and Jill Lawrie reflect on 18 months of partnership; celebrating collaboration, impact, and growth. Expect plenty of laughter, memorable stories, and one big takeaway: the power of connection and the unique magic that makes Waterloo Region such an extraordinary community. Get to know the Onward team better at Onward Media Group | Professional Cinematography & Media Production [https://onwardmediagroup.com/]

Renovictions: Housing Insecurity in Our Community with Megan Walker of the Social Development Centre

In this episode of United Voices, we sit down with Meg from the Social Development Centre Waterloo Region to unpack the growing issue of renovictions - when tenants are forced out of their homes under the guise of major renovations. We explore what renovictions mean for individuals and families in Cambridge, North Dumfries, and across the region, and how this practice contributes to housing insecurity, displacement, and rising poverty. Meg shares stories from community members with lived experience, the role of advocacy in protecting tenants’ rights, and what systemic change is needed to ensure everyone has a safe, stable place to call home.

A Game Changer for Student Outcomes with Erin Moraghan of Nutrition for Learning

In this special back-to-school episode, United Voices welcomes Erin Moraghan, CEO of Nutrition for Learning, for a conversation about food, equity, and opportunity. Serving more than 2 million meals every year, Nutrition for Learning is a game-changer for students across Waterloo Region. Erin discusses the organization’s bold vision: moving beyond being just a band-aid for hunger to becoming a vital tool for student and community success. From growing programs to tackling systemic barriers, this episode highlights why United Way is proud to support and partner with Nutrition for Learning — and why access to food is at the heart of building a stronger community for all.

Settle, Work, Belong: How Community Networks Support Newcomers

In this episode of United Voices, we sit down with Tara Bedard, Executive Director of Immigration Partnership, to explore how Waterloo Region is supporting newcomers as they settle, work, and belong. Tara shares insight into why building a strong network of services is critical for immigrant success — and why, even amid federal cuts to permanent resident targets, supporting immigrants matters now more than ever. This conversation highlights the power of welcome, community collaboration, and the collective role we all play in helping new Canadians thrive.