Association des Francophones et Francophiles du Nord-Ouest

Arts-Children & Child Care-Education

The mission of the Association des Francophones and Francophiles du Nord-Oues’s (AFFNO) is to unite Francophone and Francophiles in the northwest region of British Columbia. This region extends from Haida Gwaii to Smithers and all the communities in between, to promote the French language and Francophone culture, to develop and offer community and educational services in French regardless of ethnic origin and to participate in economic development.

They offer French language classes for beginners, cultural event and planning, translation services, services for Francophones new to the region, French book/DVD rentals and advocacy for French language and French education.

The volunteer board and society members are passionate advocates for the French language, education and culture.

Meet the AFFNO Board

Meet the AFFNO Board

The Association des Francophones et Francophiles du Nord-ouest is a non-profit society that is administered by a volunteer board of directors. Danielle Dalton is the President of the Board and Patrick Witwicki is the Executive Director.

Left to right: the board members include Chantal Cornwall, Rupert Director; Marie-Jacques Friberg, Terrace Counsellor; Estelle Mitchell, Secretary; Pierre Lecourt, Vice President; Dorine Bessette, Terrace Director; Guy Dufresne, former Director; Patrick Witwicki, Executive Director; and Danielle Dalton, President. Missing from the photo: Virginia Charron, Kitimat Director, Marie-line Fortin, Smithers Director and Maureen Benoit, Haida Gwaii Director.

Patrick loves living in Prince Rupert where the community is small enough that everybody knows everyone. He believes the feeling of community is stronger in a small town than in a larger city. "In times of trouble everyone comes together," said Patrick, "we all seem to be working together, as opposed to being in constant competition."

Patrick enjoys the pure naturalistic beauty of Prince Rupert and the town's multicultural background. He recommends hiking Butze Rapids. Prince Rupert's economy, Patrick feels, is turning around and is now pointing in the right direction. He believes small business can thrive in this town and points to Cargo Kitchen and Bar, Java Dot Cup, Cowpuccino's Coffee House, Fresh Onion and Wheelhouse Brewing Company as successful small business examples in Prince Rupert. Patrick recommends tracking down the food truck that is usually outside the Wheelhouse on weekends. He says their food and service is outstanding.

206 208 1 Ave E
Prince Rupert, BC V8J 4M8

Hours

Monday to Thursday
10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Friday
11:00 am - 5:00 pm

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