Circle of Friendship
Le Cercle de l’Amitié, which translates to “circle of friendship” in English, has been a place of culture, community, learning and friendship for the French-speaking community in Peel Region for more than 50 years.
Since 1973, the organization has committed to safeguarding the Francophone heritage of Peel Region and its surrounding areas through a wide range of sociocultural, athletic and childcare-focused programs. Its mission is to create spaces where Francophones can express their culture and nurture a strong sense of belonging in the community.
Celebrating 50 Years in the Community
To commemorate their 50 years of operation, Le Cercle de l’Amitié approached the Greening Corporate Grounds program at Credit Valley Conservation (CVC). Their vision was to create a beautiful greenspace that pays tribute to the seniors within the organization and act as a gathering space.
Sharing Ideas and Project Planning
The project began with a design workshop in May 2023, where a small group of seniors came together to share their ideas for the space. They wanted to transform the existing drab lawn into a place full of colour, biodiversity and wildlife habitat.
To make this dream come true, Le Cercle de l’Amitie received a grant through the New Horizons for Seniors program with the support of the Minister of Small Business and Member of Parliament for Mississauga-Streetsville, Rechie Valdez. Another $10,000 was received from the Takla Foundation, a long-time CVC supporter.
Volunteers Begin Planting
With the help of 30 volunteers and the encouragement of the seniors, 870 plants were planted, including 50 species of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers. Despite the heat that day, spirits were high, and it was apparent that the members of this organization take pride in their community. These gardens will provide a welcoming space to connect with nature and spend time with family and friends.
“Our community garden is a place where the seeds of friendship are sown and nurtured,” says Lauraine Côté, General Director, Le Cercle de L’Amitie. “It is a place that brings the community together and fosters a sense of belonging. Here every tree, every plant and every blade of grass celebrates our individuality and diversity. This small green oasis set within a larger industrial area speaks to the strength of the Francophone community. Though modest in size, it thrives with resilience and solidarity. A million times thank you to the CVC for making our dream come true. May our combined efforts spread like seeds and inspire others to dedicate themselves to the community.”
“Notre Jardin communautaire est un lieu où les graines de l’amitié sont semées et cultivées. C’est un espace qui cherche à réunir la communauté et promouvoir leur sentiment d’appartenance. Ici, chaque arbre, chaque plante et chaque brin d’herbe célèbrent notre individualité et notre diversité. Située au sein d’une vaste zone industrielle, cette petite oasis verte témoigne de la force de la communauté francophone. Bien qu’elle soit minoritaire, elle prospère grâce à la résilience et à la solidarité de ses membres. Un grand merci à la CVC d’avoir réalisé notre rêve. Dans l’espoir que nos efforts multipliés se répandent comme des graines et inspirer d’autres à s’engager dans la communauté,” says Lauraine Côté, La Directrice Générale du Cercle de L’Amitié.
CVC will continue to monitor the site and offer technical support, as well as opportunities for people to learn about sustainable landscaping.
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