Joining forces for youth: Future Embrun library branch to feature youth space powered by Valoris Foundation
The Township of Russell Public Library is proud to announce an innovative partnership with the Valoris Foundation. The latter is making a generous donation of $70,000 towards the development of a youth space in the Library’s new Embrun branch.
With input from over 80 local teens, including the Township of Russell’s Teen Advisory Committee, this funding will enable a welcoming, multifunctional environment for the community’s young residents.
“On behalf of the Teen Advisory Committee, I would like to extend my gratitude to Valoris for their generosity and continued support in providing safe and inclusive spaces for teens in our community,” said Lilah-Marie Copeland, vice-chair of the Teen Advisory Committee. “The future development of our growing community depends heavily on the well-being of our youth.”
Planned amenities:
Space for community professionals will enable young people to benefit from essential services such as mental health support, employability programs and other initiatives tailored to their needs.
A multi-purpose multimedia room will enable dynamic and enriching activities for young people, especially during critical after-school and early evening hours.
A youth corner will form a welcoming backdrop for connection with friends and reading featuring comfortable furniture and the library’s collection of young adult literature and graphic novels.
“This partnership is tangible proof of our community’s commitment to the well-being and development of young people,” said Laurie, Chair of the Township of Russell Public Library Board. “We are grateful to the Valoris Foundation for their generous support, to the youth for their vital inputs, as well as to all our partners for their dedication to this promising project.” With the opening of the new Embrun branch, this youth space will mark an important milestone in the offering of services for the next generation.
Photography (Rose Grzela) / First row, from left: Dominique Bertrand (Vice Chair, Library Board), Catherine Dupont (Director of clinical services, Valoris), Laurie Clement (Chair, Library Board), Dawn O’Donnell (Officer, Library Board), Mélanie Lalonde (Officer, Library Board), Françis Pigeon (Property Manager, Valoris). Second row, from the left: France Séguin-Couture (Library CEO), Lilah-Marie Copeland (Vice Chair, Teen Advisory Committee), Audrey Lemieux (Chair, Youth Leadership Group), Carole Patenaude-Granata (Community Facilitator, Valoris), Naomi Brake (Student, Youth Program). Missing from the photo: Lisa Deacon (Municipal Councillor & Officer, Library Board), Mélanie Génier (Officer, Library Board).