The Intercultural Outdoor Recreation Program started in 2010 when Adrienne Blattel created it with the Milton Park Recreation Association, and the Montreal House of Friendship, two inner-city community centres and non-profit organizations in Montreal.
Ever since an initial canoe-camping weekend in 2010, the program has grown in scope and size. Each year, around 500 people from dozens of different countries participate in approximately 75 outings. In 2022, Robin Montagu joined the team.
We strive to offer activities that are accessible to new Canadians even if they do not have a car, specialized outdoor gear, prior experience, or a big budget. We design outings that foster intercultural understanding, promote the integration of new Canadians, and make outdoor recreation more accessible in Montreal. Activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, camping, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, nature appreciation and outdoor language exchanges.