By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The Centre des Femmes La Parolière, a longstanding institution in Sherbrooke, is preparing to unveil its 2025 winter programming on Wednesday, Jan. 15. The launch event will take place at the Centre’s heritage home at 217 rue Belvédère Nord at 10 a.m. and promises to offer attendees a glimpse into a diverse array of activities aimed at fostering well-being and personal growth.
Marysol Garcia, the Centre’s coordinator, described the event as an opportunity for women to connect, learn, and participate in a supportive environment. “The Centre’s mission is to support every woman through solidarity, sharing, and mutual aid, so she can discover her strengths, develop her potential, and thrive,” Garcia said during a recent interview.
The winter session is the first of three annual programming schedules, following the introduction of a new seasonal format. While some activities are returning favourites, new options are being introduced this year to broaden the appeal and cater to diverse interests.
Inclusive and diverse programming
With services offered in French, English, and Spanish, the Centre has long sought to make its programming accessible to the community it serves. Garcia highlighted new activities being introduced this winter, including aqua yoga, alongside staples like yoga, Tai Chi, and creative workshops.
In addition to these classes, the Centre has added a monthly social activity calendar designed to include women who may not be able to commit to longer-term programming. Events such as café meetups, Valentine’s Day gatherings, and activities for International Women’s Day are planned.
“We aim to be open and inclusive, which is why we also consider expanding activities in other languages based on the needs of our community,” Garcia explained. She noted that previous initiatives, like a Spanish-language café in the fall, reflected the Centre’s responsiveness to the community’s evolving needs.
Garcia encouraged women to attend the Jan. 15 launch event, where facilitators and team members will present the activities and services. On-site registration begins at 11:30 a.m., with phone registrations opening later that afternoon.
