Dear all,
A new year is upon us, and with it comes an opportunity to pause, reflect on how far we have come, and above all, look forward to new opportunities together. On behalf of the entire CAH team, I would like to extend our sincerest wishes for 2026: wishes for health, serenity, but also curiosity, commitment, and shared moments within this French-speaking community that brings us together and reflects who we are, in all its diversity. With this Gazette, we are pleased to offer you three months of programming.
The beginning of the year is often a time of renewal, but also of clarity. It invites us to reflect on how we live our values, those of CAH in particular, on a daily basis: inclusion, collaboration, responsibility, creativity, and kindness.
These values are not just words; they guide our actions and take on their full meaning when we embrace them.
February will be marked by the celebration of Black History Month, an important time to recognize, honor, and celebrate the contributions of Black communities to our society. It is also an invitation to listen, learn, and reflect collectively on issues of equity and inclusion. At CAH, we firmly believe that the richness of our Francophone community lies in its diversity of backgrounds, cultures, and histories. Highlighting these realities strengthens our ability to create welcoming, respectful, and truly inclusive spaces for all.
This reflection is fully in line with the work we are also doing with Francophone seniors in the Durham region. Francophone communities there are becoming increasingly diverse, both in terms of their origins and their life experiences. Yet, the resources available in French remain limited, while needs continue to grow. This reality challenges us as a community organization and as a responsible actor in this sector.
It is in this context that preparations are actively underway for the Salon de Vie Active pour les aînés (Active Living Fair for Seniors), which will be held on February 25, 2026, in Oshawa. This event is intended to be a space for meeting, information, and mobilization, designed for and with Francophone seniors. It will highlight existing services and the joy and good cheer that an Active Living Centre can bring, but also the gaps, challenges, and possible solutions to better meet the needs of Francophone communities, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. More than ever, it is essential to make our voices heard, forge partnerships, and remind people of the importance of accessible, equitable, and adapted French-language services in the Durham region.
The winter months can sometimes seem long, but they also bring solidarity and human warmth. Every activity, every meeting, every initiative described in this Gazette is an opportunity to stay active, connected, and engaged with one another.
Please feel free to participate, invite others, and share with those around you. The strength of our community depends on the involvement of each and every person.
As we begin 2026, let’s continue this momentum together, with energy and kindness, keeping in mind that every action counts and that, collectively, we can continue to build a strong, inclusive, and supportive French-speaking community.
We look forward to seeing you again very soon.
Fabien Schneider
Assistant Executive Director of CAH