Community Catalyst Initiative (CCI)
The Community Catalyst Initiative (CCI) is a transformative grassroots organization dedicated to fostering peacebuilding, leadership, and systemic change within Black communities across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTA/GHA). Our commitment to addressing systemic inequities drives us to create culturally affirming spaces that empower Black families and marginalized youth. Through our programs, we emphasize economic empowerment, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI), equipping individuals with the tools to overcome barriers. Under the visionary leadership of Executive Director Horace Spence, CCI serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring long-lasting change through advocacy, resilience, and leadership development. Together, we uplift individuals and promote collective growth, ensuring a legacy of equity and opportunity for generations to come.
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Empower U: Leadership Development Series for YouthEmpower U is a youth leadership series designed to uplift and equip youth with the confidence, skills, and cultural pride to lead in their schools, communities, and beyond. Through hands-on workshops, mentorship, and real-world tools, participants grow into the leaders they’re meant to be—grounded, bold, and ready to create change.
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Building Legacies TogetherBuilding Legacies Together is a 12-week empowerment program for Black parents and caregivers in Hamilton. Participants engage in twice-weekly workshops focused on wellness, parenting, financial resilience, and cultural healing — alongside monthly community events and an annual family BBQ. This initiative creates space for connection, growth, and legacy-building rooted in Black joy, strength, and community.
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Community advocacyChampioning systemic change through collective action.
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Horace SpenceExecutive DirectorHorace Spence is a dedicated leader committed to social justice and community empowerment. His vision drives transformative change for Black communities.
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Gary NewmanOperations ManagerAs the Operations Manager, Gary Newman is deeply committed to building strong bridges between CCI and the communities it serves. His advocacy is rooted in lived experience and strategic systems design, empowering marginalized voices through culturally grounded engagement, trust-building, and sustainable infrastructure.
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Adrian ColePrograms ManagerAdrian Cole is a passionate Programs Manager who is committed to empowering marginalized youth and families through culturally affirming, skill-based programming.
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Andrew IrvinCommunity Outreach ManagerAndrew Irvin is a community-centered leader who serves as Community Outreach Manager at CCI. Known for his humility, integrity, and passion for connection, Andrew builds trust through authentic engagement and deep listening.
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Building Legacies Together – Monthly Community SeriesJuly 26, 2025 at 5:00 PMCoMotion – 115 King St E, Hamilton, ONBuilding Legacies: A Community Catalyst Initiative Monthly Event
📅 Date: Friday, July 26th
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: CoMotion – 115 King St E, Hamilton, ONJoin us for an evening of culture, community, and connection as we continue our monthly “Building Legacies” series. This vibrant gathering is designed to uplift and unite Black families, leaders, and change-makers from across the GTA/GHA.
✨ What to Expect:
✅ Inspiring speakers and community dialogue
✅ Delicious culturally diverse food
✅ Local Black-owned vendors
✅ Networking and intergenerational storytelling
✅ A celebration of Black legacy and empowermentThis event creates space for Black joy, legacy-building, and collective empowerment. Whether you're a youth, elder, parent, artist, or entrepreneur — this is your invitation to connect, share, and celebrate our collective journey.
🔗 Free entry. All are welcome.
📩 Contact: Community.Catalyst.i@gmail.com
🌐 Website: Community-Catalyst-Initiative.com
📝 Sign up: https://gforms.app/87cEyKlHosted by: Community Catalyst Initiative
Let’s build together. Let’s rise together.
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Mon9:00am–10:00pm
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Tue9:00am–10:00pm
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Wed9:00am–10:00pm
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Thu9:00am–10:00pm
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Fri9:00am–10:00pm
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Sat9:00am–6:00pm
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Sun9:00am–12:00pm