YOUTH PROGRAMS CELEBRATED AT JARDIN ÉDUCATIF BBQ
Published online August 13, 2025, at www.pontiacjournal.com
The Jardin Éducatif du Pontiac welcomed residents August 5 for its annual fundraising barbecue, a tradition dating back to the late 1980s. The event, marking the final week of the Garden’s summer camp, offered a chance for the community to connect, enjoy a summer meal, and see youth programs in action.
Executive Director Martin Riopel, who will celebrate ten years in the role next April, said the BBQ was about more than fundraising. “It’s an open house atmosphere… the real value is in sharing our work,” he noted.
The camp, for youth ages 12 to 17, combines gardening with workshops on healthy relationships, drug awareness, and food transformation, plus recreational outings such as a trip to Calypso Waterpark. Alongside campers, the Garden employs local youth for summer jobs, with some returning in later years as staff.
This year’s menu featured fresh produce and grilled favourites, supported entirely by donations from Giant Tiger in Shawville—except for the burger patties, which were purchased from a local butcher.
Proceeds will fund summer camp and school-year initiatives, including alternative suspension programs and one-on-one student follow-ups. – William Dale
Photo – Martin Riopel, executive director of the Jardin Éducatif du Pontiac, at the organization’s annual community BBQ. August 5. (WD)
