Our Story
Say Ça! is a Montreal-based charity that provides free French and English language tutoring to refugee and newcomer youth. Founded in 2016, we work in close collaboration with families, schools, and other community partners to empower youth to become engaged citizens and leaders in their communities. Our vision is a just and inclusive society where youth of all backgrounds have access to quality programs, practical tools and resources that help them thrive.
Our Mission
Say Ça! is a Montreal-based charity organization that provides free French and English language tutoring to refugee and newcomer youth. Founded in 2016, we work in close collaboration with families, schools, and other community partners to create the conditions for youth to become engaged citizens and leaders in their communities.
Our Vision
Our vision is a just and inclusive society where youth of all backgrounds have access to quality programs, practical tools and resources that help them thrive.
Our Values
- Learning
- Inclusion
- Community
- Fun
- Respect
- Collaboration
Our Objectives
- Provide a positive and supportive learning environment for equity-deserving youth
- Help develop a sense of belonging through interactive and engaging community outings and events
- Create safe spaces to listen and share stories
- Acknowledge the challenges of integrating into a new society through art therapy, song, dance and other mental wellness offerings
- Develop leadership competencies and foster self-determination.
January 2016
Say Ça! is a organization supporting Syrian refugees aged 14 to 18. In June, we become a registered organization in Québec.
February 2017
We develop our first language learning program.
June 2017
Say Ça! publishes its first Volunteer Handbook to train mentors. We have since published a 2nd and 3rd version.
September 2017
We organize our first mentoring and cultural activities. These activities are still going on today!
January 2018
We open our doors to students from all countries. Younger students (12 years and older) are also welcome! We design the first version of our English learning program.
March 2018
Say Ça! moves to the Refugee Centre. We also revamp our French learning program.
April 2018
We purchase the first 11 computers for our students. Our program transitions also to an online platform that enhances teaching and communication.
September 2018
Say Ça! continues to grow: 38 students enrolled! We develop a French entry test. McGill Consulting gives us feedback on our program.
November 2019
Mentors begin meeting monthly and engaging in training opportunities.
January 2020
Say Ça! partners with the Centre des services scolaires de Montréal (CSSDM) to recruit new students.
March 2020
Say Ça! moves fully online during COVID-19. In July, all students receive care packages with supplies to participate in home-based mentoring activities.
June 2022
Say Ca! Returns to in-person classes and continues to service equity-deserving youth through funding by the Supports for Student Learning Program (SSLP) program at ESDC Canada.
About our partners
Say Ça! would like to thank Equitas for awarding us the “Speaking Rights” bursary in 2017 and 2018, as well as for their constant support and friendship. We would also like to thank the Refugee Centre for providing us with our classrooms and Tools of Peace for considering us a Story of Peace in Montreal in 2018. Thank you also to Rising Youth, the Canadian Council for Refugees, the CPRMV, Antiracist Football in Montreal, the Museum of Fine Arts of Montreal, Brain Reach, the CSAI, and the Montreal Canadians Children Foundation.
