Photo: Meet the face of safety education: Gatineau’s ‘Parapluie’ program mascot stands proud, beckoning young minds to bestow a name on it, embodying the spirit of protection and community engagement. (TF) Photo courtesy of the Gatineau Police

With notes from Mary Baskin, Marie-Eve Turpin and Lily Ryan

The Gatineau Police Service (SPVG) has extended an invitation to students across Gatineau to participate in a unique competition: naming the mascot for their new ‘Parapluie’ program. Since October, this comprehensive prevention program has been offered to all primary and secondary schools in Gatineau, aiming to equip young people with the tools to create a healthy and safe environment throughout their school years.

The ‘Parapluie’ program, modern and current in its approach, is designed to prevent juvenile delinquency and criminal victimization among young people. It includes 11 activities tailored to various age groups, from Kindergarten 4 years old to Secondary III, each based on research and evidence. These activities cover a range of concepts, including the role of police, conflict resolution, understanding of bullying, internet safety, and knowledge of the criminal justice process.

Parents are also involved in this initiative, with tools provided to continue discussions at home, reinforcing the program’s themes. Additionally, partner organizations such as Réhabex and Alternative Outaouais contribute to certain program activities.

The program’s name, ‘Parapluie’ (French for umbrella), symbolizes protection and safety, mirroring the program’s objective to shield young people from various societal challenges. The program’s mascot, a blue character with unique hair and an umbrella medallion, is designed to inspire confidence and imagination, evolving with students as they progress through the program’s activities.

In the spirit of community involvement, the SPVG has launched a competition for students to name this mascot. The contest is open to all primary and secondary schools in Gatineau, with each class allowed to submit one name. The criteria for selection include originality, relevance tothe ‘Parapluie’ program, and alignment with SPVG’s community policing approach. Entries are to be sent to concours.parapluie@gatineau.ca by December 1 at 10:00 am.

The winning name will be selected based on the outlined criteria, with the SPVG retaining the right to choose the name if none meet the standards. The winning class will receive an exciting prize: an invitation to a Gatineau Olympic hockey game alongside police officers and the mascot, where the mascot’s name will be officially unveiled.

This competition not only involves students in a meaningful aspect of community policing but also fosters a sense of belonging and contribution towards a safer and more aware society.