By Deb Paterson
Did you know that the Routhier Community Centre has been described as the “best-kept secret of the ByWard Market” (“le secret le mieux gardé du secteur du marché By”)? Well, not anymore. We had the privilege of meeting Karine Jolicoeur, the new Program Coordinator of our community centre on Guigues Avenue, and she is passionate and determined to make the centre a well-known and vibrant asset for our Lowertown community.
It was such a pleasure to hear her speak about a vision for a re-invigorated space for people in our area to connect, learn, grow and become more physically active. She acknowledged that after a pandemic period where people retreated into their own spaces, but remains hopeful that people will come out again and re-connect. This is vital to mental health and the health of the community.
This is where you come in. Consider registering for one of the initial classes for children, youth and adults including yoga, sewing, bridge and dance. Do you want to look into renting space for a program of your own design and passion? The kitchen has been refurbished and is ready for some positive group activities. If you have thoughts and ideas about what you would like to see, please share them with Karine.
Karine wants the community centre to be a place where everyone is welcome, and there are plans to make it so. She is pleased to see the Variety Routhier group is active once again for persons with disabilities. She also hopes the Routhier will generate opportunities for meaningful work and volunteer activities. As this is going to print there might be a perfect job opportunity waiting for you. Please contact Karine or Derek (Recreation Supervisor) to learn more about that as well.
Neighbours, let’s work together to make the Routhier Community Centre a place where we can all meet in ways which inspire, connect and build an even better place for us all to live. Stay tuned for an announcement about an upcoming Open House!