the essential
The appeal launched on the eve of summer 2024 to its historic funders seems to have been heard: the association is now better helped to support learners of all nationalities in increasing numbers of people using its services.
For the Rourgat Committee to help social integration through learning French, it all started 33 years ago today. At the time, it was a Ruthenian nurse who, alone, gave French lessons to New Aveyron residents looking for integration. “She was aware of the needs,” summarizes Gérard Bruel, president of the board of directors of the association.
Today, there are between 300 and 350 learners, from 70 different nationalities, and the association offers them four hours of lessons every week on several sites in Rodez, Onet-le-Château and Espalion. To carry out this task, Craisaf has 47 volunteers who provide courses at five levels, “for illiterate learners up to those with a baccalaureate level”, explains Gérard Bruel.
Last June, the situation was serious for the association. “The survival of Craisaf, after 33 years of unwavering activities, is seriously compromised due to lack of additional participation from our territorial partners and the State,” he declared at the time.
A call heard, since, still according to its president, Craisaf has since received “40% additional subsidies”. “Our missions are recognized, our work is recognized,” he says with satisfaction.
Certified French language examination center
However, needs persist, and the president is launching a new appeal, this time for donations from individuals or businesses. This always with the aim of supporting learners as best as possible.
Throughout the year and in addition to the courses, outings are organized to allow beneficiaries to get to know Aveyron, their host department: awareness of beekeeping or ecology, visits to farms, museums or heritage sites…
To extend these exchanges during this holiday season, around a hundred people gathered this Thursday, December 19 at the Saint-Éloi social center in Rodez for a shared snack with international flavors, each having cooked a specialty from their country of origin. Several small shows and songs were also offered in a very warm atmosphere.
Recently, the association was recognized as a Delf examination center (French language examination diploma). Excellent news for the survival of the structure, underline the volunteers, since this examination will soon be compulsory for obtaining residence permits.
