By Malika Seguin-Gervais
This edition of the ECHO’s theme is collaboration. But what is collaboration? While the theme can leave me perplexed, I wanted to share with you a decade-long community collaborative initiative. Winterfest is a winter celebration has been one of the major collaborations between the Lowertown East Residents Committee (LERC) and the Lowertown Community Association (LCA). The LERC and the LCA are two committed resident-led organizations which are concerned with the well-being of their respective communities. And who better for me to interview about Winterfest than Sandra Pilote, resident of Lowertown for over thirty-five years and completely devoted, mind, body and soul to the organization and implementation of this event since its creation.
MS: Sandra, can you tell me why Winterfest is important to you?
SP: Winterfest happens on and is built around Family Day. The goal is to celebrate families in Lowertown. For parents and children to spend time together outside and enjoy the winter. Winterfest has also been an occasion for many Lowertown residents to skate for the first time!
MS: What happens at Winterfest? What can we expect?
SP: The exciting hockey game between residents of Lowertown and the Ottawa Police Service officers is the type of entertainment not to miss, and although we haven’t finalized all the details of the event you can expect music, dance, food and lots of surprises for the whole family.
MS: Can you share on how to make a community event a success for a decade?
SP: It is the result of the work of a committee made up of enthusiastic and dedicated residents for several years and committed community partners.
MS: At last, what is the ultimate reason to participate in the Winterfest this February 17th at Jules Morin Park?
SP: Come and meet your neighbours!
I would have loved to make a witty conclusion, but Sandra said it all!
On February 17th from 12 pm to 3 pm, celebrate with neighbours at Jules Morin Park. Be part of the celebration: fight winter isolation.