This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
Although the environment comes to mind spontaneously when we talk about sustainable development, the societal aspect is just as important. Examples ? Here are three.
Nature to find its way
Created in 2002 to develop ecotourism in a harmonious way, Vallée Bras-du-Nord is often cited as an example when talking about sustainable tourism. Each year, the solidarity cooperative hires about ten young people struggling with school dropouts, drug addiction or delinquency to carry out trail development and maintenance work for six months. Baptized “Projet en Marche”, the socio-professional integration initiative has proven its worth. 75% of participants in the first 12 years re-entered the labor market or returned to school after participation. Winter, hiking, via ferratasnowshoeing, oversized biking and mountain skiing can be practiced in this exceptional playground.
Inclusion at its best
After launching the Health Autonomy Network in 2012, which connects disabled athletes and people who were not experiencing accessibility challenges to participate in sporting challenges, Dominic Viénot and Éric Sévellec wanted to set up an agency offering softer adventures. Born in the midst of a pandemic, the BivouaQ solidarity coop focuses on inclusive adventure tourism. The concept: to offer outings in Quebec or elsewhere in the world to groups of about fifteen people, with and without disabilities. It is already possible to book three-day hikes in the Charlevoix region and at Bic for July 2023.
Caring for those who care
In the restored and refurbished wings of the Hôtel-Dieu de Québec monastery, the Monastère des Augustines, converted into a hotel, museum, restaurant and place of well-being, is inspired by the altruistic values of the nuns who created the first establishment. 17th century Canadian hospitale century. “At the Monastery, our social commitment has existed since well before the pandemic, underlines the founding director, Isabelle Duchesneau. It is to care for those who care, who are in dire need of respite. While the activities of the Monastery are open to everyone, caregivers, companions, as well as workers and volunteers from the health and social services sector can take advantage of accommodation and healing programs designed for them. Upcoming events include a meditation concert with crystal bowls on February 16 and family yoga classes on February 26.
This special content was produced by the Special Publications team of the Duty, pertaining to marketing. The drafting of Duty did not take part.
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