Discover Your Roots
A Journey Through Our Heritage
Our organization has a proud and vibrant history, beginning with a small group of passionate individuals dedicated to genealogy. Over the years, we have grown into a thriving community committed to helping people discover and celebrate their family stories. From hosting local events to providing personalized research support, we strive to make family history accessible to everyone.
Who We Are
KARA is a Registered Charity, and what truly sets us apart is that we are entirely volunteer -driven. Every aspect of our organization – from our Board members and Research Centre volunteers, to those who assist with research requests and maintain our website and web – store is powered by the dedication and generosity of volunteers. It’s a remarkable testament to the spirit of giving that defines KARA.
At the heart of our organization is the KARA Research Centre, where everyone is welcome to explore their family history. Non-members are invited to visit for a small daily fee, and our friendly volunteer staff are always happy to offer a tour of our library resources. We love chatting with visitors about the family names they’re researching and sharing ideas to help move their research forward.
Since opening our doors in early 1996, the KARA Research Centre has welcomed countless members and guests. Thanks to the ongoing support and donations from our community, our library has flourished. We gratefully accept donations of books, photographs, postcards, newspaper scrapbooks, and family research collections, all of which enrich our holdings and benefit fellow researchers.
Our latest initiative is the KARA Online Search site, available exclusively to members. We are gradually digitizing and uploading resources to make them even more accessible. This project, like everything we do, is made possible by the dedication of our volunteers.
Our focus is on uncovering the stories of ancestors from this part of Ontario, from the days of Upper Canada to the present. The Peterborough and Kawartha region is rich in history, having been home to literary and political leaders, United Empire Loyalists and their descendants, and the settlers of the 1825 Peter Robinson emigration.
At KARA, our welcoming volunteer staff are always ready to assist – whether it’s helping you locate resources, discussing research strategies, or providing background information on various materials. Whether you’re an experienced genealogist or just beginning your journey, you’ll find a warm and supportive atmosphere at the KARA Research Centre.
Discover Our Mission
Our mission is to connect people with their roots. We aim to provide valuable resources, share knowledge about genealogy, and foster a sense of community among those interested in building their family trees. By offering educational tools and support, we help everyone uncover their unique histories.
Our Vision Forward
We envision a world where everyone can access and appreciate their family’s history. By expanding our outreach and providing diverse education options, we want to empower individuals to explore their lineage and embrace their heritage with confidence.
KARA Goals For The Future
Our Goal A:
To establish a distinguished Family Research Library & Centre, thoughtfully curated with a wealth of resources designed to illuminate the stories of our ancestors. We aspire to foster a profound connection between past, present, and future generations, nurturing the enduring ties that bind us across time. Embracing the possibilities of the digital era, we are dedicated to expanding our reach and accessibility through innovative online platforms and digitized collections.
Our Goal B:
To serve as a guiding light for those tracing their family roots within this historic region of Ontario. We are committed to empowering individuals by imparting the essential skills and methodologies of genealogical research. Through education and mentorship, we enable our community to craft enduring legacies—gifts of knowledge and heritage to be cherished by generations yet unborn.
Our Goal C:
To cultivate an extraordinary family research library—a comprehensive repository of genealogical treasures accessible to both local residents and distant seekers. Our vision is to create a bridge across the ages, ensuring that the rich tapestry of family history remains within reach for all who seek it. In doing so, we honor the past while inspiring future generations to continue the journey of discovery.
Join Our Family History Community Today!
Discover your roots and connect with others who share your passion. Become a member to access exclusive resources and support
