North Hatley can count on a large number of citizens who are deeply devoted to their village. A few months ago, together with a small group of citizen ambassadors—mainly entrepreneurs from North Hatley—we launched an initiative: ANHA, short for Ambassadors of North Hatley and Surrounding Areas (Alentours). For now, the association is aimed at project leaders who wish to help stimulate the economic and social vitality of our region.
To achieve this, we will be setting up a non-profit organization whose mission will be to support projects initiated by citizens, through concrete, accessible, and useful actions.
As you know, North Hatley has remarkable potential: engaged citizens, dynamic merchants, a lake, and an exceptional natural environment. With these ambassadors already involved, we want to nurture a culture of collaboration and exchange that will help energize our community, for the benefit of current and future generations.
It must also be said frankly: this kind of momentum cannot always come from the municipality or elected officials. ANHA is therefore intended as a positive and constructive way for citizens to take initiative at the grassroots level, in complementarity with what already exists.
It is important to clarify that this future organization is neither a chamber of commerce, nor a social club, nor an advocacy group. Rather, it is a gathering of people who wish first and foremost to give back to the community in an altruistic way: to encourage citizen participation, strengthen community spirit, and contribute in a tangible manner to the vitality of North Hatley and the surrounding area.
Two Ways to Get Involved
All individuals involved in ANHA are volunteer ambassadors. They are divided into two groups:
Project Leaders
Ambassadors who propose and develop a concrete project (activity, event, or initiative).
Supporters
Ambassadors who support project leaders and help with the organization and execution of events.
A Clear Intention
For me—and for everyone who attended previous ANHA meetings—the intention is clear: to build together a vibrant, supportive, and prosperous territory, where citizens, businesses, and organizations actively contribute to the social, economic, and environmental richness of our community, today and for generations to come.
The Values That Will Guide Our Actions
Diplomacy
Acting with tact and discernment in all circumstances, toward ambassadors, members, citizens, and the municipality.
Respect
Respecting people, institutions, and the environment around us.
Integrity
Doing what is right, even when no one is watching.
Altruism
Acting for the common good, without expecting anything in return.
Organizational Funding
The organization aims to finance itself primarily through funds raised during the activities it organizes.
Taking Part in the Next Meeting
So, if you wish to carry a project forward (or contribute to one) to help energize North Hatley and the surrounding area, please step forward. We will soon organize a third meeting to continue this initiative with other ambassadors who also wish to set up events and positive actions in the village.
With that, we look forward to working with you to help energize our village.
