Walk About at Park’N’Party

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

By Ken Hirter

It was that time of year again at Compass Community Health Centre. Over 700 of us came together to celebrate at a wonderful Community Summer BBQ. Hosted by Compass since 1999.

Mariko Bown-Kai, Community Development Support Food Security Specialist with Compass was Master of Ceremonies and welcomed everyone, entertained attendees and introduced the acts. She thanked all the groups and sponsors who participated in putting together the 2025 PARK ‘N’ PARTY. Mariko had everything running smoothly throughout the afternoon and early evening.

TAD (Take a Breath Singers) a delightful singing group from Compass opened with ” I can see clearly now the rain has gone” plus more songs to get the afternoon started.

WRECKLESS HARBOR BAND ,a group of 4 gentlemen generated a summer vibe that had everyone dancing and tapping to their lively musical set. They were wonderful.

The barbeque Fire Pit Crew and Grill team served up delicious summer fare – hamburgers, hot dogs with vegan options and gluten free bags to go, frozen treats and water. The Tim Hortons van was also there serving free complimentary coffee and hot chocolate.

A special thank you to our 2025 Compass Community connection sponsors. These organizations are helping us make our community a better place. Without their support, the success of this years Park N Party would not be possible!

Platinum Level Sponsors:

Black & McDonald and TD bank.

Gold Level Sponsors:

The Biking Lawyer LLP

Silver Level Sponsors:

HOPA Ports

LiUNA! Feel the Power 837.

Thanks also to the Community Partners :

Bennetto Recreation Division

Cancer Assistance Program

Eva Rothwell Centre

Hamilton Bike Share/Everyone Rides

Hamilton Community Legal Clinic

HPHS Health & Safe Communities, Vaccine – Ambassador/Newcomers Program

Indwell

Jamesville Bennetto Childcare Centre

Mishka Social Services

Neighbour 2 Neighbour

North End Breezes

Pathways to Education

Positive Health Network

Shalem Mental Health Network

Somali Hamilton

Welcome Inn Community Centre

Xperience Annex (City of Hamilton)

Youth Outreach Workers Hamilton (YOW)

Please note that Compass Community Health Centre their groups and programs were also present, along with the wonderful staff of volunteers from Compass who were all there wearing their blue t-shirts.

Thanks as well to the folks who donated the door prizes this year.

CNE

Dundas Little Theatre

Dundas School of Art

Farm Boy

Flying Squirrel

Forge FC

Hamilton Theatre Inc

Mandarin

Marble slab creamery

Marilyn Neufeld and the Strategic Choice Team

McMaster University

Pinch (Bakery & Plant Shop)

Play with Clay (Hamilton Pottery Studio)

Terra

Triple C Farms

The Bard and Bear Game Cafe

The Guilo

The Hamilton Tiger Cats Football

The Move Room

The Westdale 90

As l did my walkabout l had the pleasure of visiting with a few of the Community partners and with the people. I asked the question, what does Community mean to you?

” Community means to support and to rely on each other for Healthy & Safe Communities.”

Samantha Kollee (Bennetto After School Program)

“Sense of Pride for the areas where you live and help your neighbor.”

Adrian Benedetti (HamOnt Youth)

“Community is a sense of belonging and the connection from the same area where you live.”

Ligaya Stinellis (HamOnt Youth)

“Community means friends, joy, life and support here in the North End and throughout Hamilton. I love attending Park N Party and the wonderful people here at Compass Community Health Centre.”

Linda Kraan (client Compass)

“Less stress and not stressing over anything, especially here at Compass with their wonderful programs.”

Miss P (client Compass)

It was another wonderful & delightful PARK ‘N’ PARTY for 2025 thanks Compass. Fun was had by all who came out to celebrate community spirit, while continuing to enjoy the beautiful summer season as well.