Project 1 – Bilingual Community Access Initiative: Building More Inclusive Communities in Ontario
The Bilingual Community Access Initiative was implemented from May to August 2026 with financial support from Heritage Canada. The initiative aimed to improve equitable access to public services for Francophone immigrants in Peterborough and Durham Region by providing bilingual French-English support at community events and developing accessible bilingual resources. (more information)
Reaching the Community
The initiative reached 374 participants, including 129 French-speaking Canadians, 58 English-speaking Canadians, and 187 other participants, compared with an expected total of 472. EINFIO provided simultaneous interpretation and translation support across project activities. Trained bilingual volunteers supported Francophone newcomers at events such as the Carassauga Festival, Green Talent Expo and Speed Networking sessions. They helped participants access information, navigate events, communicate with exhibitors and service providers, and connect with settlement, employment, health and social services.
Strengthening Access and Inclusion
Participants expressed strong appreciation for receiving information and assistance in French. Many reported feeling more welcomed, respected and confident when interacting with service providers. Bilingual support also helped participants better understand available programs and access resources that might otherwise have been missed because of language barriers.
The project also strengthened EINFIO’s organizational capacity by expanding its network of trained bilingual volunteers, increasing its visibility, creating new partnerships, and providing valuable insight into the barriers Francophone immigrants experience when accessing public services.
Anti-Racism Resources
As part of the initiative, EINFIO developed and used the Side-by-Side English-French Anti-Racism Toolkit. A total of 205 copies were printed. The bilingual resource has been used in community dialogues, volunteer orientation, workshops and outreach activities, helping EINFIO promote equity, diversity, inclusion and meaningful participation among Black and Francophone communities. The bilingual content was also incorporated into EINFIO’s website, which recorded an average of 219 visits per month during the reporting period.
Looking Ahead
The success of the Bilingual Community Access Initiative reinforces EINFIO’s commitment to creating more accessible, equitable and inclusive communities for Francophone immigrants in Ontario. EINFIO will continue to strengthen bilingual services, build community partnerships and advocate for improved access to public services. Together, we are building a more inclusive Ontario — where language is not a barrier to participation, opportunity and belonging.
Project 2 – Our Story, Our Strength for an Inclusive, Equitable and Decisively Anti-Racist Ontario
For the month of February 2026, EINFIO implemented the project with financial support from the CRRF. The initiative brought together 116 participants through awareness-raising activities, community dialogue, and educational sessions focused on cultural identity, equity, integration, and combating racism. (more information)
The project included an activity at École Monseigneur Jamot, a community dialogue bringing together diverse community stakeholders, and cultural activities, including a djembe session. Young people were also encouraged to speak out and make calls to action against racism.
The initiative benefited from the collaboration of several partners, including People of Motherland, Université de l’Ontario français, La Passerelle IDE, Conseil scolaire MonAvenir, and Le Métropolitain. The participation of Mr. David Smith, Provincial Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre, also contributed to the community discussions.
The project created opportunities for people from diverse communities including Black communities to come together, share experiences, promote intercultural dialogue, and strengthen community engagement. Thanks to the support of the CRRF, this project was able to make a meaningful contribution toward building a more inclusive, equitable, and decisively anti-racist Ontario.
Our story is our strength. Our diversity is our richness. Together, let us amplify the voices of young people and build communities free from racism and discrimination.
Project 3 – Empowering Youth Through Career Development and Leadership
EINFIO organized a community youth event designed to expose young people to diverse career opportunities, leadership pathways, skilled trades, and professional development. The event brought together 150 youth with leaders and professionals from the building trades, the Society of United Professionals, Ontario Power Generation (OPG), and the federal public service. (more information)
Industry and community leaders shared their personal career experiences, provided practical advice, and discussed pathways to employment and professional advancement. Discussions highlighted the importance of education, leadership, networking, mentorship, skills development, and taking advantage of available opportunities.
The event also provided an interactive space for youth to engage directly with professionals, ask questions, explore different career options, and develop a clearer understanding of pathways into skilled trades, unionized workplaces, public service, and other professional sectors.
Results: The initiative directly impacted 150 youth, increasing their exposure to career opportunities, strengthening their professional networks, and enhancing their awareness of education, leadership, and employment pathways. The event also strengthened connections between youth, employers, professionals, and community leaders, contributing to greater confidence and career readiness among participating youth.