Parrainage civique des MRC d’Acton et des Maskoutains

Parrainage civique des MRC d’Acton et des Maskoutains is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to improving social participation and inclusion for individuals living with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or physical limitations. Registered under the business number 129998282RR0001, the organization operates primarily through a volunteer-matching program aimed at creating friendship and mutual support networks.

History

The organization was originally founded on March 17, 1983, under the name Parrainage civique de St-Hyacinthe. It emerged from a recognized community need to provide persons with disabilities a civic sponsor who would foster friendship and social integration. The initiative was part of the early wave of establishing civic sponsorship movements across Quebec between 1970 and 1990.

In 1991, reflecting its broader regional outreach, the organization was renamed Parrainage civique région maskoutaine. In the early 2000s, it expanded its activities to include the MRC d’Acton. Finally, in 2004, it adopted its current name to signify the inclusion of both the MRC d’Acton and the Maskoutains regions.

Mission and Vision

The core mission of Parrainage civique des MRC d’Acton et des Maskoutains is to create social bonds and break the isolation of people living with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or physical limitations. The organization primarily achieves this through pairing volunteers with these individuals to foster supportive friendships.

Their vision embraces inclusion and active social participation of their members within the broader community, emphasizing the promotion of the positive contributions these individuals can offer.

Values

The organization is guided by values such as:

• Respect
• Mutual help
• Trust
• Friendship
• Benevolence

Activities and Impact

With the support of around forty volunteers, the organization facilitates meaningful social connections that reduce isolation and promote community engagement. The volunteer-driven sponsorship model benefits not only the individuals receiving support but also enriches the volunteers and the wider community.

The approach aligns with principles advocated by social inclusion theorists, encouraging persons with disabilities to have opportunities equal to others in living, learning, and socializing in similar community settings. The organization promotes participation in everyday activities and the establishment of relationships within their community.

Partnerships

Parrainage civique des MRC d’Acton et des Maskoutains collaborates with various partners, including notable support from the Fondation des Œuvres de Mère Émilie-Jauron.

This nonprofit exemplifies a longstanding dedication to fostering inclusivity, friendship, and community participation for people with disabilities across its regional scope in Quebec.