Intergenerational Program

Carrefour Mosaïque: Together, Inspiring Generations

Since 1974, Collège Sainte-Marcelline and Résidence l'Amitié Saraguay have been more than neighbours: they share the same grounds, the same living space, and now the same unique intergenerational project in Québec. A long-cherished dream of the Marcelline Sisters.

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A Project Born From a Shared Vision

Carrefour Mosaïque is a joint activities program between Résidence l’Amitié and Collège Sainte-Marcelline. Each week, from October to May, it offers opportunities for meetings and exchanges between senior residents and students from kindergarten through high school.

The goal is both simple and profound: to break isolation, create lasting bonds and bring more humanity into our society. A crossroads where every generation brings what it does best and leaves enriched.

What the Name Means

Carrefour (crossroads) evokes a place of meeting and convergence, where paths cross and collaboration is born. Mosaïque (mosaic) reflects the richness of differences (in age, experience and culture) which, assembled, create something greater than any single piece.

The program’s motto says it all: Shining Together.

Activities That Truly Bring People Together

In its very first year, enthusiasm exceeded all expectations. Three or four activities were planned, twelve took place (creative workshops, knowledge exchanges, sports activities, artistic and technological demonstrations). Each gathering confirmed the same thing: when you create the conditions for dialogue between generations, magic happens.

International Day of Older Persons — October 1st

To mark the International Day of Older Persons, elementary and high school students expressed their gratitude toward the residents of Résidence l’Amitié, for all they have contributed to society, and above all, for the unique and precious people they are.

The elementary school choir started the celebration by performing Mon ami aux cheveux blancs by Ingrid St-Pierre, a song that captures, in a few verses, everything Carrefour Mosaïque embodies.

The presidents and members of the student council then presented a greeting card signed by all high school students.

The final touch came from Sarah Stefan, a Grade 10 student, who offered residents a painting that she created: a piece depicting the joy shared between generations and all the love that residents give our students through Carrefour Mosaïque activities.

A moment filled with love, for people who truly deserve it.

Bonds That Last

At the end of the year, residents organized a celebration to thank student volunteers, but the gratitude was mutual. Both sides were eager to resume activities in the Fall.

What Carrefour Mosaïque Brings to Everyone

For seniors, these activities break isolation and stimulate curiosity. They step out of their daily routine, share their know-how and discover the world of young people.

For students, it is a school of empathy and listening. They learn to respect a different rhythm, to value the experience of elders and to understand that civic engagement starts close to home.

“Residents appreciate these moments that take them out of their daily routine. And in turn, the young people learn from their elders.” — Journal des voisins, December 2024

A Program Recognized Beyond Our Borders

Carrefour Mosaïque has been presented within the international network of Marcelline Sisters, generating admiration and interest in several countries. This program concretely embodies the school’s founding values: mutual support, commitment and shining through the heart. It illustrates what an educational community attentive to others can accomplish.

Carrefour Mosaïque is where hearts of 5 to 100 years old meet. Elders share their wisdom, young people bring their energy — and together, they weave something unique.

Véronique D. Hemmerechts, resident of l'Amitié

I’ve been at Résidence l’Amitié for 2 years and I love Carrefour Mosaïque — the robots, Santa Claus with the little kindergarten students… Every activity is a joy!

— Dominique Rodier, resident of l'Amitié

Walking with the residents moved me deeply. Discovering their life stories — like a mother of ten children — is a gift. I wish this experience for every future student.

Beatriz Barbosa, Grade 8

Such a wonderful experience to share with the elders! They welcomed us with such enthusiasm, and I had so much fun dancing with them.

Désirée Tawadros, Grade 10