Supporting Black-Led Community Initiatives in 2025
In 2025, AHC proudly supported several Black-led grassroots groups as they brought forward unique initiatives addressing local needs and priorities. These included:-
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- Africa Caribbean Heritage Alliance
- Senegalese Community of Edmonton Society
- Guineans Association of Edmonton
- APC Burkina Faso
- Eritrean Segenyeti Sub Zone
- Vision de Loin Society
- Embuutu Youth Group
- Edmonton Cranes
- Crochet Project
- Better Youth Better Future
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These supports were not simply about funding—they served as “start-engine” opportunities, helping community groups access broader resources, strengthen capacity, and showcase their cultural heritage, languages, and talents. Through this work, organizations were able to open new doors, build confidence, and deepen their impact within the communities they serve. In addition, many Black-led groups received grant-writing support through AHC for the City of Edmonton’s Anti-Racism Grant. As a result, seven organizations were successfully awarded grants ranging from $14,000 to $50,000 across multiple funding streams, directly supporting initiatives that combat systemic racism and promote racial equity.
Creating Impact Where It Matters Most
Together, these efforts play a crucial role in strengthening grassroots leadership and creating lasting positive change within our communities. They support the growth of local leaders and provide opportunities for individuals and organizations to develop skills, confidence, and capacity to drive meaningful initiatives. Key areas of impact include:
- Leadership development: Nurturing emerging and established leaders to guide their communities with vision, confidence, and resilience.
- Welcoming and connecting newcomers: Helping newcomers feel at home, fostering a sense of belonging, and supporting their integration into the social and cultural life of the city.
- Supporting overall well-being: Promoting mental, physical, and psycho-social health to ensure community members thrive holistically.
- Celebrating cultural and multicultural heritage: Honouring the rich histories, traditions, and contributions of diverse communities, and creating spaces where culture can be shared and celebrated.
- Building networks, partnerships, and collaboration: Strengthening connections between organizations, community groups, and stakeholders to enhance impact and collective action.
- Promoting racial equity and anti-racist practices: Actively challenging systemic barriers and creating inclusive environments where all community members can participate fully and equitably.
Through these efforts, AHC fosters empowered, resilient, and connected communities that can lead, grow, and create meaningful change from the ground up. AHC approaches this work not only as a partner, but also as a learner. We strive to embed equity, respect, and anti-racist principles into everything we do—creating spaces where Black families feel supported, youth feel empowered, and elders are honoured for their wisdom.
We honour Black History Month by amplifying Black voices, supporting community-led initiatives, and creating learning opportunities that challenge assumptions and promote action against racial inequities. Our commitment is demonstrated through relationship-building, inclusive programming, and long-term engagement that respects and values community knowledge and leadership.
At AHC, we reaffirm our long-term dedication to equity, inclusion, and social justice. Lasting change happens when communities are trusted, supported, and empowered to lead—and this guiding principle shapes all our work, every day. Together, we are building a healthier, more inclusive, and anti-racist future—for everyone.