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A busy spring ahead for Katimavik!
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The winds of change are in the air these days at Katimavik. Spring has always been associated with renewal and rebirth. With the warm spring breeze comes a sense that everything is in flux. As I write this, we are an organization in transformation.
Participants in the 2007-2008 program are currently in the final phases of their Katimavik adventure. But before they say their tear-filled goodbyes to their fellow cohorts and final host community, there is still important work to be done.
Specifically, Katimavik groups in all 89 host communities across Canada will simultaneously be celebrating a “Katimavik for the Environment Day” with a series of activities on May 24th to commemorate Katimavik’s 30th anniversary. This special event will allow our participants and alumni to work with members of their host communities on projects dedicated to sustainable development.
Such an initiative reflects Katimavik’s growing dedication to environmental stewardship. This commitment is embodied by our new Eco-Internship program offered in partnership with the Government of Quebec. Officially launched on April 7th, this innovative pilot project will allow over 100 CEGEP and University students, ages 18-30, to embark on a six month career-building and volunteer service internship in various regions of Quebec. They will be volunteering for public, semi-public and non-profit organizations that are dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The first group of participants is set to leave in June of 2008 and the following cohort is expected to begin in September. It is our hope that in the near future this project will become a Canada-wide endeavour. To find out more about Eco-Internship go to: www.ecointernship.qc.ca
As our 30th anniversary comes to an end this spring, we are assiduously preparing to enter our fourth decade as Canada’s leading youth volunteer service organization. This means that our national and regional offices are actively recruiting the next cohort of youth who will embark on their own unforgettable journeys come September. The thought of a new generation of Canadian youth committing nine months to national volunteer service reminds me that the unique experience offered by Katimavik retains its relevance. Our youth, having completed the program, will be more knowledgeable of our regional diversity and the values associated to civic engagement. Even after 30 years, many more adventures lie ahead for our future participants, host communities and staff. To add to our celebrations, we are quite proud of the fact that Katimavik was recently granted Special Consultative status by the United Nations Economic and Social Council. It is our hope that we can serve as a model for national youth service in other countries in the years to come.
On behalf of everyone here at Katimavik, I wish you a happy spring season!
Jean-Guy Bigeau
Executive Director
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