Vale supports francophone sporting and cultural event in Sudbury

This article was provided by the Ontario Mining Association (OMA), an organization that was established in 1920 to represent the mining industry of the province.
 

Ontario Mining Association member Vale has donated $75,000 to support the fifth Canadian Francophone Games, which are being held in Sudbury July 20 to 24, 2011.  Vale is the official presenting sponsor of the event, which will involve about 1,200 francophone youth from across the country.

“Vale is proud to be associated with the Canadian Francophone Games, the largest national gathering of francophone youth in Canada,” said Angie Robson, Manager of Corporate Affairs for Vale’s Ontario Operations.  “This is a great opportunity to help showcase Greater Sudbury on a national stage, while bringing significant economic benefits to the community.”

“Vale’s sponsorship will allow us to invest in our programming and eco-responsible planning,” said Paul Lefebvre, Chairman of the Board for the games.  “This will help make the Games an event that will be recognized on a national level.  Vale’s contribution also reiterates its commitment to the community.”

Participants are between 13 and 18 years of age with a strong working knowledge of French.  Since 1999, the games have brought together youth from across Canada.  Each province and territory has its own delegation and its own team.  Along with sports such as track and field, volleyball and basketball, the games also feature arts, culture and leadership events.

The Canadian Francophone Games, which are financially supported by Canadian Heritage, started in 1999.  They are held every three years.  Other communities which have hosted the event include Edmonton (2008), Winnipeg (2005), Riviere du Loup (2002) and Memramcook, New Brunswick (1999), which is near Moncton.  In 2014, Gatineau, Quebec is scheduled to host the games. 

Vale supports the Canadian Francophone Games commitment to unlocking opportunities for francophone youth, its eco-responsible planning and its respect for diversity.  “What an exciting project – 1,200 youth participants, 500 volunteers, 200 organizers, 15,000 spectators and the eyes of francophone Canada upon us,” added Ms Robson.   

Miners and mining companies are responsible, solution-providing partners in society. They do more than find, extract and process minerals essential to our modern lifestyles. These companies are economic enterprises operated by men and women who are members of society and community builders. As volunteers and donors, they add great value to the quality of life in their communities and beyond.