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Deep in the heart of Vallée Bras-du-Nord, the Projet en Marche is transforming the future of at-risk youth through the power of the outdoors and solidarity.
Finding your footing, one step at a time
In the tranquility of the forests of Vallée Bras-du-Nord, where footsteps crackle over pine needles and the wind weaves through the maples, something profound happens every summer. For over 20 years, the En Marche Project has offered a unique path to reintegration for young adults distanced from the job market. They are between 16 and 35 years old, often having lost confidence in themselves—and sometimes in the world around them. And yet, in this strong and nurturing natural environment, they rebuild themselves, one trail at a time.
A Unique Approach: Nature and Adventure-Based Intervention (INA)
The En Marche Project is based on a recognized and innovative method: Nature and Adventure-Based Intervention (INA). This approach uses the outdoors as a catalyst for personal transformation. Working on trails, learning to canoe, or mastering wilderness survival isn’t just about acquiring new skills—it’s also about pushing one’s limits, building trust, and finding a renewed sense of direction.
A Tangible Human Transformation
The statistics are clear: 80% of participants complete the program and return to school or the workforce. But behind those numbers are faces, stories, and resilience. Like Simon*, who couldn’t hold eye contact but, after just a few weeks, walked with his head held high and a smile on his face. Or Émilie*, who discovered a passion for physical work and is now pursuing a career in forestry.
*The names of participants have been changed for ethical reasons.
Working up a sweat, but following the rhythm of the heart
The young people of the En Marche Project don’t just benefit from nature — they give back to it. For six months, they build, maintain, and enhance the trails of Vallée Bras-du-Nord. Every staircase built, every rock moved, is a mark left in the forest — but above all, a symbol of pride and personal achievement.
Why give?
The En Marche Project is a social gem, but it needs support to keep lighting the way for these young people. This year, the Vallée Bras-du-Nord cooperative is launching a major crowdfunding campaign with La Ruche to fund the next cohort. Every donation, big or small, directly helps give a young person the chance to reconnect with themselves, with others, and with the world.
Although it has existed for over 20 years, the En Marche Project team must find creative ways each year to secure the resources needed to keep it running. This uncertainty threatens the program’s continuity, limits its ability to grow, and drains valuable energy that could be better invested directly in supporting the youth.
L’objectif de la campagne est clair : réunir les fonds nécessaires à la tenue du Projet en 2025, en permettant à l’équipe d’intervention de se concentrer sur ce qui compte vraiment – l’accompagnement des participants – plutôt que de devoir sans cesse sécuriser des sources de financement.
Better funding also means:
- The ability to retain our intervention staff year-round, ensuring better support before, during, and after the season;
- A more comprehensive workshop offering, more preparation, and stronger guidance at every stage of the participants’ journey;
- Greater visibility for the Project and its benefits;
- Long-term sustainability and stability for the Project.
Giving to the En Marche Project means planting seeds in fertile ground. It means believing that nature can heal, that effort can transform, and that solidarity can change lives.
Now it’s your turn to walk with us!