Delfino Callegari – Devoted To His Community
When you speak with Delfino Callegari, you can feel his passion for community. A humble man filled with incredible spirit and the love of people, Delfino has been volunteering with the Guelph and District Multicultural Festival for 31 years.
Starting as a Board member with the Multicultural Centre (now Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington), Delfino recalls the Festival starting with a couple hundred people in Downtown Guelph but over time, the popularity of the festival continued to grow into an event that draws approximately 25,000 people in its current location for the last 21 years, at Riverside Park.
“I like to work with people. I love the festival; different cultures coming together” Delfino says “I love the people; I see the people support this event and how the community pulls together”.
This love of people and community is well known and felt by many. “Delfino is devoted to his community, and for 31 years has been the main organizer of a free family event that brings the community together to celebrate the rich cultural diversity that exists in the Guelph area.” shares Jenny Santos-Haayen, Executive Administrator of the Guelph and District Multicultural Festival “He has given many hours and resources to bring an event that promotes multiculturalism.”
When asked about a memory that stands out, Delfino says there are many but shares “I remember a family, new to the festival, sitting down on the grass first alone; I approached them to thank them for coming and from there they started to talk with others and before you know, there was a group of people all talking, laughing; it was a beautiful thing.”
Connections like Delfino’s example build and strengthen communities. They create awareness and opportunities for learning, as well as meaningful and shared experiences that are possible through the devotion of Delfino Callegari, the festival team including the Board of Directors and hundreds of volunteers who bring this vibrant festival alive.
The Guelph and District Multicultural Festival is a fun, family event that continues to grow to include more activities, food vendors, craft vendors and performances that thrives because of the participation and contributions of local community groups. As we celebrate Canada’s 150th, the spirit of celebrating our communities rich tapestry of culture aligns with this nation’s vast multicultural fabric. May our community and country continue to embrace the various cultures and emulate the spirit of community that is at the heart of Delfino Callegari.
To learn more about the Guelph and District Multicultural Festival, visit www.gdmf.ca
