Local Francophone youth and seniors connecting through reading

By Richard Coffin A new Francophone project is being launched in North Bay that is bringing generations together.

Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord, has teamed up with Parents partenaires en éducation and Association Lire et faire lire Ontario to launch “Francophone Stories Come Alive: Grandparent Readers in Action”.

Officials say the new initiative harnesses the power of reading while strengthening the vitality of the Francophone community in the North Bay area.

It provides specialized training to fifteen volunteers aged 50 and over from the North Bay area, enabling them to lead reading activities in Saint-Vincent, Saints-Anges, and Saint-Raymond Catholic elementary schools.

While highlighting the valuable contribution of grandparents, officials say the project is looking to engage all Francophone seniors who want to share their love of reading and contribute to the success of the next generation.

“This initiative fully reflects our commitment to shaping citizens who are open to others, committed to making a positive contribution to society, and proud of their linguistic and cultural heritage,” says Tina Legault-Ouellet, Director of Education for Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord. “By encouraging exchanges between students and community members, it helps instill values of kindness, generosity, and social responsibility that are at the heart of our mission.”

Volunteer recruitment and training will take place in October and November, with the project officially launching in January.

“Every story shared is an opportunity to build a connection, spark children’s imagination, and keep the French language thriving,” says Julie Béchard, Executive Director of Parents partenaires en éducation. “Through this project, we want to celebrate the contribution of grandparents and recognize their essential role in transmitting our culture and supporting the growth and well-being of our youth.”

Funding for the project is coming from the province’s Seniors Community Grant Program.

Richard Coffinhttps://www.mynorthbaynow.com/Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years.  From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.