As we wrap up 2025, it’s clear it was a good year for Heritage Lower Saint Lawrence.
We’ve got several strong files up and running, and funding is looking encouraging. None of this happens by chance. We work hard for every partnership and every dollar, and that work is starting to show real results.
One of our big focuses this year was strengthening our presence in the western region, starting with Rivière-du-Loup. I ended 2025 with a new partnership with Univers Emploi in Rivière-du-Loup, and it’s a great fit. It gives us a solid base — access to employment services, links with the Chamber of Commerce, and shared office space where HLSL can work. Just as important, we’re now on each other’s radar. Thank you to Nancy Dumont (see photo below) for helping make this happen.
In Rimouski, there’s a lot happening and a lot of energy, with many activities already underway. Looking ahead to 2026, one of my priorities is tackling our space issue. We’re simply outgrowing what we have, so finding a new space for HLSL will be back on the table.
In Métis-sur-Mer, there have been many important projects since I started, including the HLSL Community Hub. That work is still moving forward, and with funding almost confirmed, we’re close to being able to hire an archivist. This will help us finally get our history and archives organized and move ahead with a museum vision project. I’m really looking forward to sharing more on this soon.
All in all, the groundwork we’ve been laying is paying off. We also ended 2025 with a strategic vision-sharing session with our team, Board, and volunteers. The ideas and direction that came out of that conversation will be tackled in the coming months.
I’m wishing you all a very Happy New Year from HLSL! There’s so much to be excited about. I can’t wait to see it all take shape in 2026.
