MÉLISSA GÉLINAS
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE

FORT-COULONGE – On International Women’s Day, it’s important to recognize the significant role women play in our communities. At the Pontiac Community Futures Development Corporation (SADC), a predominantly female team drives economic growth and supports small businesses in the region.

The SADC is a non-profit organization funded by Canada Economic Development, dedicated to stimulating the local economy through various projects. “We have been supporting businesses, organizations focused on economic development, cooperatives, and community projects for nearly 40 years,” said Rhonda Perry, Executive Director of the SADC.

The organization is part of a national network present in rural areas across Canada. “SADCs are found from Newfoundland to British Columbia but only in rural communities, not urban centres,” Perry noted.

The Pontiac SADC team includes nine members, mostly women, with each playing a key role.

Leading with experience
Rhonda Perry has been with the SADC for 26 years, serving as Executive Director for over 15 years.

“After graduating, I worked at a youth centre in the Pontiac MRC,” Perry shared. “In 1998, I joined the SADC as a youth advisor for a new program called Youth Strategy. I later became a financial analyst before taking on my current role. I manage the budget, secure funding for our MRC, and maintain our presence in Pontiac’s communities to support businesses and economic development projects.”

Supporting local businesses
Brittany Morin, Business Advisor for Marketing and Communications, has been with the SADC since 2008. She specializes in project management, digital marketing, and economic development.

“After completing my studies in Montreal, I wanted to return to Pontiac and applied to the SADC,” Morin said. “I work with entrepreneurs to develop marketing strategies or assess their needs for their projects.”

Amy Taylor, Business Advisor specializing in startups and business planning, has been with the SADC for over 12 years. “I help entrepreneurs with everything related to entrepreneurship except financing,” Taylor explained. “I provide guidance, help with business plans, technical support, permits, and paperwork.”

Celebrating 40 Years
This year, the SADC celebrates its 40th anniversary. The Annual General Meeting will take place on June 12, in Quyon, followed by an anniversary dinner on September 12.

Photo – The team at SADC Pontiac: Rhonda Perry, Lise Lagarde, Sarah Graveline, Sarah Adam, Brittany Morin, Tracy Francoeur, and Amy Taylor. (Brittany Morin)