The Rivage du Val-st-françois
An alternative approach to promote mental health
Le Rivage is an independent community action organization founded in 1987. Adhering to the Alternative mental health approach, its mission is based on promoting and maintaining social integration of people who are experiencing (or have experienced) a mental health problem, in their community.
What does this mean?
This means that Le Rivage believes that people’s mental health is linked to their experiences and to the resources that are available to accompany them on their life journey. The Rivage believes social determinants of health (education, income level, access to housing, transportation, social network, environment, etc.) play a vital role that influences mental health. We feel that if people are able to meet their needs in a way that makes sense to them, they will hopefully feel that they have a sense of control over their lives and maintaining a good mental health will be easier. At Le Rivage, the person is central, not their diagnosis or label. It’s their story and their way of seeing the world that is put forth when collaborating on projects and activities.
How is this accomplished?
By creating social spaces that allow for meaningful exchanges and interactions between community members (for example, Community café in Richmond, Photovoice project, coffee and chat, community dinners). By including people in the management of the organization and its actions, (board of directors, various committees: budget committee, community life committee, etc.) Through a peer support group led by members for members, and also by the mutual support that is experienced daily in the organization. Also, through awareness-raising activities organized by members for the general public. Le Rivage’s actions are as much with its members as they are with partners, municipalities, and businesses.
Timothy says: At first, it was my social worker who referred me to the Rivage. I had some apprehensions towards this organization, I didn’t quite understand what working collectively meant, but Mélanie accompanied me and at my own pace, I started to take part in the various committees and to get more involved. Slowly, I started participating and soon realized I had a voice and it mattered! Whenever I dared to say something, I felt supported and it helped me move forward. Now, I am a member of the Administration board and I understand that working collectively makes sense. I am not alone in experiencing what I am going through and it is together that we can change.
Who are you going to see?
It is by coming to Rivage that we see who we see because people are free to come and go as they please, so you never know who you will meet!
Vicky says: I am a very shy person, the Rivage gives me a place to get out of my house, a place to go and see others. People respect my rhythm here and I choose when I want to speak and participate, I don’t feel pushed, it’s my decision….
How do you participate at Rivage? First, everyone can participate collectively to breaking the stigmas surrounding mental health by getting to know, and getting involved in, your local community organizations. As for le Rivage, you can follow us via Facebook (www.facebook.com/ Rivageduvsf). Information is available pertaining to the service offered for the residents of Val-st-françois. To facilitate participating in our actions and activities, or the actions and activities of a local community organization, Le Rivage has tablets available and/or you can come to our premises in Richmond to have Internet access.
The Rivage, you have to live understand it! (Élodie, stagiaire). it to