On the occasion of the 51st anniversary of the Nice-based association l’Envol, Christian Estrosi awarded the metropolitan medal to its president and founder yesterday. What a wonderful surprise!
Fifty-one years of unwavering commitment deserves a celebration! “Thank you for your support,” exclaimed Brigitte Sarfati, president of l’Envol association. This Thursday, the city mayor was welcomed by the association at their premises (1 Place de l’Armée du Rhin) to present them with the city of Nice medal. Christian Estrosi didn’t choose February 29 by chance for this meeting; it is also Brigitte Sarfati’s birthday.
The president of l’Envol association prepared a thank-you speech for the mayor and the city of Nice. “Your dedication to our cause is a source of inspiration for all of us, and we are convinced that with your help, we will continue to achieve our goals,” Brigitte expressed. In turn, Christian Estrosi spoke to congratulate the two women leading the association, “Nice is very lucky to have you”. Furthermore, the mayor promised new projects and furniture to ensure the sustainability of l’Envol, “we will ensure that throughout the year, you are provided with new equipment.” His speech concluded with the importance of the actions undertaken by the association before presenting Brigitte with the city of Nice medal.
Actions Undertaken Since 1973
On February 23, 1973, the l’Envol association was born. The founding couples Mr. and Mrs. Mazzola and Mr. and Mrs. Rey, parents of young people with disabilities, believed that the best approach to facilitate their integration was through practicing sports, while not neglecting cultural activities. The range of activities (swimming, soccer, basketball, dance, pétanque, horse riding, sailing, fitness, karaoke, athletics) is chosen by the members themselves according to their preferences, and everything is supervised by five educators. Today, the association has 90 members (65 men and 25 women) aged 16 and up. Even after all these years, l’Envol’s philosophy remains unchanged: “We accept everyone, regardless of their disability.”
In addition to the multiple activities offered by the association, event organization such as the Christmas Party, the King’s Cake celebration, and the Dance Gala are set up for the members. Both able-bodied and disabled competitions are also organized with swimming and pétanque opens. Three soccer tournaments, as well as the Brigitte Sarfati Football Challenge and the Marcel Rey Pétanque Challenge, are part of the events. Membership costs €150 per year to enjoy these activities.
