Creating Inclusive Communities Evening at Knox United Church May 7, 2026

On Thursday, May 7, 36+ members of our community gathered at Knox United Church in Dorset to celebrate the importance of inclusion in Lake of Bays and beyond.

Guests enjoyed an incredible variety of delicious dishes generously provided by Wayne and Mia of Saigon Pho and More in Dwight, Govinda’s Kitchen in Huntsville, and Pizza on Earth in Dorset, alongside wonderful cultural specialties shared by members of our diverse community.

We were honoured to welcome guest speaker Ross Budden — musician, educator, psychotherapist, and dedicated nature and fitness enthusiast, who spoke with great compassion about the importance of creating inclusive communities. Ross encouraged meaningful conversation by inviting others to share their own experiences, perspectives, and stories, helping create an evening filled with connection, understanding, and inspiration.

A heartfelt thank you to Vina Parker, Doris MacDonald, Joanne Buss, Reverend Meg Jordan, and Phil Ridley who organized this important gathering and to Lisa Nicol, Chair of the United Churches, for securing the Security and Anti-Hate Grant that helped make this gathering possible.

It was especially meaningful to have Ravi and his family from Robinson’s and employees from PharmaSave join us. These are some of the family businesses and that contribute so much to our community.

It was truly an evening of connection, conversation, understanding, and community spirit. (And really good food!).