Cdr (NL) Anne-Marie Fournier
FOR MOST PEOPLE, taking part in volunteering projects is about ‘giving something back’, socialising and making new friends. At the Navy League of Canada, this is true, and beyond that, we give our volunteers a platform to make a difference in the lives of young people. In this edition of Cadet Corner, we are excited to introduce you to one of our exceptional volunteers – the 2021 Navy League Officer of the Year, Anne-Marie Fournier.
Cdr (NL) Anne-Marie Fournier is a well respected and devoted volunteer with the Navy League of Canada.
Commander Navy League Anne-Marie Fournier discovered the Navy League cadets and the program in the fall of 2006 when she enrolled her son, who had just turned 9 years old. Since then, she has functioned in various capacities from administrative to Communications Director to Cadet Advisor. In June 2019 she was selected to succeed the Divisional Commander Cdr (NL) Sigouin when his mandate ended in the summer of 2020.
Commander Navy League Anne-Marie Fournier took the time to tell us more about her journey and its impact. Enjoy.
1. Can we know more about you before you joined the Navy League Cadet Volunteer program?
Before joining the Navy League Cadets, I was a stay-at-home mom. I have been volunteering in my community for over 5 years. First by getting involved in the Branch (CA) of my son’s preschool and then on that of the primary school parents’ association. Community involvement is very important to me. Without volunteers, a community could not flourish.
2. How did your journey as a volunteer begin?
The closest cadet corps to our home being more than 30 minutes from the house made me stay all evening waiting for my son to finish his training. So, I thought to myself, why not help? From there, I started as a director within the C.A. of the branch of the NL cadet corps in my region. I was on the Board of Directors for over 4 years and then transferred as an officer to CCNL when my daughter was 9 years old.
3. What is the most interesting thing for you as a volunteer?
It is very important for me to be involved in my children’s activities. In my opinion, this shows our child that what he or she loves is valuable. Following his child and encouraging him in the pursuit of his activities shows him that we support him. Watching your child grow, develop skills and flourish is wonderful. Whether our child or not, witnessing the development of a 9-year-old to 19-year-old – 1 day is amazingly beautiful. To see their potential and to discover with them all that they are capable of accomplish- ing ... It is so beautiful, it is priceless. In addition, without realizing it changes take place in us and we too discover skills that we do not believe we have and develop facets of ourselves that we did not imagine. We all surpass ourselves, young and old.
4. As the Navy League Officer of the Year, what advice do you have to other volunteers and potential volunteers? Working for the Navy League Cadet Program is like being part
of a big family. As in any family, it is not always easy or simple, our values and ideals are confronted and it takes a lot of resilience and ingenuity. But it’s so worth it. It’s a lot of work, but the result is so beautiful. To see young people thrive, to be happy while having fun is a privilege of life. Have a positive impact on the life of a young person, to offer him a place where he feels good and at ease to develop his leadership and his skills in respect and safety, what could be more rewarding for him AND for us? My “pay” is when I’m at a restaurant with friends and a lady taps me on the shoulder and says, “Madame Fournier? I’m the mom of younger so-and-so, my son loved you so much. He’s still talking about you. He loved the cadets so much.
Anne-Marie helping cadets get ready for their mid year revue.
Anne-Marie, then CO of NLCC 182 Salaberry, handing a promotion to one of my cadets with RCN PO1 Christian Primeau. The Cadet was very happy to receive his promotion from an actual sailor in the CAF!
Remembrance Service at the Hudson Legion with Members of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Presenting a wreath at the Valleyfield cenotaph with her Chief after the Remembrance Day parade.
This picture was taken after the “Défi têtes rasées” (Leucan Shaved Head Challenge) to help cancer-stricken children and their families. Cadets of the RCSC 329 Valleyfield their CO, a NLCC 182 Salaberry officer, some cadets, and Anne-Marie, then CO, were part of the adventure. They were able to get $3,000 that day!
Anne-Marie and other officers at the Officer Training Weekend. We are a close-knit gang!
He’s still talking about you. He loved the cadets so much. You had such an impact on his life, you have no idea. Now he is working ... His little brother is now old and I would like him to join you. Are you still with the Navy League program? .... Or walk into a store and the person at the cash register comes running to you to say hello and remind you that she was your youngest a few years ago with a big smile. It’s just priceless.
It must be remembered that there is no such thing as too small an impact. Whether you have 1 hour or 20 hours to give, your contribution is just as valuable and important. So, if you have the time no matter how much, don’t hesitate to join the great NL family, you will see it will be worth it.
If you or someone you know is interested in joining the Navy League or wants to know more about how you can create a positive impact for youth in your community – contact us today. Oceans of opportunity await you at Navyleague.ca.