JASON SETNYK
The Centre Charles-Émile-Claude was filled to capacity February 20, as ACFO SDG marked its 35th anniversary with an evening of dinner, performances, and community reflection. Despite heavy snowfall, over a hundred attended the celebration, which highlighted the organization’s decades-long commitment to supporting Francophone life across Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry.
The night brought together ACFO SDG leadership past and present, including current president Mario Gagnon and former presidents Jasmine Bernier, Denise Dumais, Danielle Duplantie, and Dianne Poirier, as well as Émile Robert, the organization’s first president in 1990. Former executive director Sonia Behilil was also in attendance. Mayor Justin Towndale and Councillors Sarah Good and Fred Ngoundjo were also in attendance.
Before the show, co-director Justin Chenier described the milestone as a tribute to ACFO SDG’s long-standing work. “We’re celebrating 35 years of projects, community, and Francophone culture here in Cornwall,” he said. “That’s the whole purpose of the night.” President Mario Gagnon emphasized the organization’s roots and evolution. “It’s also a thank you,” he noted. “Without the community, our partners, volunteers, employees, and our directors, we cannot do what we are today. We always adapt to the needs of the community, and we welcome the new generation.” Attendees learned about ongoing initiatives, from youth stand-up comedy workshops to cultural programming and partnerships with local school boards. Gagnon also highlighted ACFO SDG’s recent success in helping Cornwall earn its Communauté francophone accueillante (Welcoming Francophone Community) designation. “We were able to spearhead a group of about 50 organizations… and Cornwall was chosen. We are very proud of that,” he said.
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