About the FEMC

Mission

As a gateway organization at one of Canada’s largest entry points, the Fort Erie Multicultural Centre (FEMC) provides a continuum of services to support newcomers from the point of their first steps in Canada until their long-term integration into local communities.

Board of Directors

  • Martha Mason - Co-Executive Director

  • Monica Witvoet - Co-Executive Director

  • Berni Candeloro - Chair

  • Theresa Murphy - Vice-Chair

  • Jonathan Wright - Treasurer

  • Cindy Warkentin - Director

  • Aurora Naz - Director

  • Percy Turner - Director

  • George McDermott - Director

  • Reverend Bill Thomas - Director

History

From its earliest days, Fort Erie has had a strong tradition of welcoming and integrating newcomers. This community played a significant role in the abolition of slavery in 1793 in Upper Canada (now Ontario) and was a key stop on the famous Underground Railroad. Situated at the busiest border crossing for refugees in Canada, Fort Erie is both a gateway community and a place newcomers like to call their new home.

Behind Our Logo

The four squares represent the north, south, east, and west corners of the world, from where those we greet now and past, have allowed us to be part of their migration journey.

That the world is round, and the four corners herein square reminds us of the ever-present sense of paradox in our lives.

The colours speak to what we aspire to for others and for ourselves – purple for spirituality, wisdom, and healing, black for strength and truth, white for justice and peace.

The hands express the essence of a supportive and welcoming hand, in a community of mutual respect, inclusion and acceptance.

The Fort Erie Multicultural Centre Logo was officially adopted by the membership on World Refugee Day: June 20th, 2015.

Our Commitment

At FEMC, we are committed to:

  • Supporting Newcomers: We assist newcomers in navigating their new environment, providing essential services such as language instruction, employment readiness, and community settlement.

  • Promoting Inclusion: We strive to create an inclusive environment where newcomers feel welcomed and valued.

  • Community Engagement: We actively engage with the local community to foster understanding, build connections, and support the integration of newcomers.

Funders

Service Partners