After over four years in the making, the wait is finally
over! We are excited to announce that our official opening has taken place, and
our additional space is now fully operational and ready for use!
Opening activities took place gradually, starting with an
exclusive private tour for our members of our board of directors and volunteers
in March, providing them with an intimate firsthand view of our new space.
On April 4th, our staff enjoyed a view of the new space and actively engaged in its inaugural activity, a medicine bag-making workshop led by Perry McLeod Shabogesic, a Knowledge Keeper from Nipissing First Nation. Perry also performed a smudge ceremony to purify and cleanse the new space, adding a meaningful touch to our inaugural event.
The official opening took place on April 9th, welcoming the community and partners to explore the new space and join the celebrations of our latest milestone. The event was kicked off with words from Executive Director Guy Robichaud and speeches by the Director of Community Health Program, Renée Vaillancourt, followed by Board Chair Dan Roveda, Mayor Kathleen Thorne-Rochon, Chief Scott McLeod Shabogesic, ED Alzheimer’s Society Shannon Ketchabow and ending with volunteer and program participant Chantal Brassard who read a poem she wrote about the importance and impact this Centre has on her well-being.
The official opening remarks were followed by a self-guided tour for those in attendance and enjoying each other’s company over cake and refreshments. Community health resources were available, and everyone was encouraged to enter their name for a door prize!
Overall, the event was a great success. Over 130 community members came to celebrate, and everyone’s presence made it even more special!
The additional space will offer exciting opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and community building. We can’t wait to see what amazing things we will achieve together in this dynamic environment!
