William Dale
Published online July 1, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com
CAMPBELL’S BAY – Le Jardin Éducatif du Pontiac (JEP) highlighted infrastructure projects, youth programming, food security initiatives and advocacy efforts during its virtual annual general meeting on June 16, marking another year of supporting youth across the Pontiac.
Following the meeting, Director Martin Riopel discussed the organization’s newly released 2025–26 annual report, outlining recent achievements and priorities for the year ahead. Now in its 37th year, the Campbell’s Bay-based organization continues its mission of helping prevent school and social dropout among youth aged eight to 17.
Riopel said one of JEP’s most significant long-term projects remains the
development of its facilities. Construction of a new 32-by-130-foot greenhouse and an adjacent 40-by-40-foot building encountered delays over the past year but is expected to be completed during the 2026–27 fiscal year, expanding both agricultural production and learning opportunities.
Over the past year, JEP supported 189 students and their families through academic coaching, psychosocial support and addiction prevention programs delivered in partnership with the Western Québec School Board and the Centre de services scolaire des Hauts-Bois-de-l’Outaouais.
The organization also continued its contribution to regional food security, donating 1,541 pounds of organic fruits and vegetables to Bouffe Pontiac, valued at $5,813. JEP generated more than $44,000 in self-funding revenue through its annual barbecue, kiosk sales
and seasonal lawn-care contracts for municipal and community properties.
The annual report also highlighted the challenges facing independent community organizations across Quebec. With the support of its board of directors, JEP joined the provincewide Le communautaire à boutte campaign, calling for increased mission-based funding, improved working conditions and greater recognition of community organizations’ autonomy.
Looking ahead, JEP has launched its seven-week ecological gardening summer camp, welcoming approximately 30 youth to its Litchfield site under the
guidance of a 14-member staff. The organization will also host its annual community barbecue on Wednesday, Aug. 5, where residents will have an opportunity to support JEP’s programs and see the participants’ work firsthand.
Photo: Participants in Le Jardin Éducatif du Pontiac’s seven-week ecological
gardening summer camp harvest produce at the organization’s Litchfield site. (JEP)
