Why Community Is About Connection, Not Perfection: Lessons From The Hope Pride Festival

Why Community Is About Connection, Not Perfection: Lessons From The Hope Pride Festival

This past weekend, Thrive & Connect was honoured to sponsor and help organize the third annual Hope Pride Festival. The plan was simple: share a picnic dinner, then unwind with a cozy movie night. We had the screen, the projector, complimentary shaved ice from Envision Financial — and most importantly, the joy of being together.

And then… the technology failed us.

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Why Community‑Led Initiatives Create Lasting Change

Why Community‑Led Initiatives Create Lasting Change

Every powerful movement begins not in a boardroom, but on the ground—with people who live and breathe the challenges they’re trying to solve. I think often to one of my favourite scenes from the movie Rustin, when Bayard Rustin inspires a group of young activists to think big, think bold.

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What Are Third Spaces & Why Do We Need More Of Them?

What Are Third Spaces & Why Do We Need More Of Them?

In a world that often pulls us between home and work, third spaces offer something essential: connection. Coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, third spaces are informal public places where people gather—not to work or live, but to be in community.

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Building Stronger Communities: The Power of Collaboration in Community Development

Building Stronger Communities: The Power of Collaboration in Community Development

Strong communities are built through intentional collaboration—where shared vision and collective effort transform challenges into lasting impact. In community development, collaboration is not just helpful; it’s essential. Today, let’s explore why collaboration is so vital, how it strengthens communities, and practical ways to foster meaningful partnerships.

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