2026: ROOTED IN WELL-BEING | | As we welcome 2026, Communities in Bloom invites you to explore our Theme of the Year: Therapeutic Gardening. Gardening has the power to support mental, physical, and emotional well-being while strengthening our connection to nature and to one another. This year, we’ll focus on creating inclusive, healing green spaces that promote calm, resilience, and community care. Together, let’s grow environments that nurture people as much as they do the land! | | |
Communities in Bloom is more than a program—it’s a national movement to grow healthier, more vibrant places together. Whether you’re participating at the National or Provincial level, now is the time to join this inspiring celebration of greener, more vibrant, and more livable communities.
For over 30 years, communities and attractions across Canada have come together through CiB to enhance shared spaces, strengthen environmental stewardship, and build pride that connects neighbours and generations.
Why Participate?
- Cultivate civic pride and celebrate your unique identity.
- Lead the way in addressing and adapting to climate change.
- Transform and beautify green spaces, creating havens for all.
- Strengthen neighborhood connections and community spirit.
- Attract investment and welcome tourism to your hometown.
It’s time to Bloom, Grow, and Revitalize your Hometown!
Join us in 2026 and show how your community is shaping a brighter, greener future for all.
| | NEW GRANT OPPORTUNITY FROM RBC | | |
This opportunity offers:
- Affordable consultation for communities NEW to CiB
- Targeted outreach to Indigenous communities across Canada
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Support to balance environmental goals with financial realities
Through this program, CiB and RBC are helping to:
- Improve natural ecosystems and urban green spaces
- Advance Indigenous-led conservation projects
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Foster sustainable, equitable, and healthy communities
Impact: By enhancing plants and green spaces in your community, you can boost residents’ wellbeing and create spaces everyone can enjoy.
Limited spots available! Up to 40 new communities will be eligible in 2026.
| | Save the Date! You’re cordially invited to the 2026 CiB Symposium & Awards in Montréal & Rosemère, Québec. Join us from October 15 to 17, 2026, for an unforgettable event! | |
IN MEMORIAM
MONIQUE CARRIÈRE (NÉE CHARRON)
1950 - 2026
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It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Monique Charron Carrière, beloved wife of Raymond Carrière.
For many who have attended Communities in Bloom Symposiums and Awards over the years, Monique was a familiar and deeply cherished presence. She worked alongside Raymond for many years in support of Communities in Bloom, and her warmth, generosity, and dedication left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Our thoughts are with Raymond and his family during this difficult time.
View the Obituary
| | As part of CiB's Therapeutic Gardening theme this year, the Always Together Rose stands as a beautiful symbol of community, compassion, and hope. We’re pleased to share that a list of retailers carrying these roses will be available within the next few days. Visit the link below to find participating garden centre locations near you. Proceeds from each sale support both the Never Alone Foundation and the Communities in Bloom Foundation, helping advance programs that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. With the Always Together Rose, we’re planting more than flowers—we’re nurturing connection, well-being, and hope across our communities. | | Participating retailers will be available within the next few days | | CERVIA CITTÀ - MAGGIO IN FIORE | | |
Communities in Bloom has been invited to take part in Cervia Città Giardino – Maggio in Fiore, a world-renowned floral celebration in Cervia, Italy—known internationally as “the garden city.” In May 2026, Canadian CiB communities are invited to design and install a garden in a public space as part of this spectacular event, where gardens from around the world come together to form a living, open-air museum enjoyed all summer long. With accommodation, meals, materials, and on-site support provided by the City of Cervia, this is a unique opportunity for international exposure, cultural exchange, and showcasing your community’s creativity on a global stage. Interested communities are encouraged to express interest by February 2, 2026.
Key details:
- Dates: May 22–27, 2026
- Accommodation and meals: 3-star hotel and meals provided by the City of Cervia for up to 3 gardeners
- Materials: All flowers, plants, stones, turf, and other garden materials will be supplied by the City of Cervia
- On-site support: Assistance will be provided, and Mauro Paradisi and his team will also be working nearby
- Flight and transportation: To be covered by the participating community (not included)
| | SCOTTS CANADA - GRO FOR GOOD GRANT | | The 2026 Gro for Good grant program will reopen on January 28th. | | GREEN CITIES FOUNDATION GRANT | | Through matching grants and contributions of materials and labour, GCF supports local projects that renovate and enhance community green spaces. Let’s grow healthier, greener communities together! | |
Do you have a great volunteer you'd like us to celebrate?
Send the information to bloom@cib-cef.com and we'll feature them in an upcoming e-News, or on Social Media!
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If you have any questions, please contact:
Sonia Parrino
Program Specialist
1-514-694-8871
bloom@cib-cef.com
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Communities in Bloom is made possible by the generous support of our
sponsors and partners. We wish to thank them for their contribution
to the quality of life and civic pride in Canadian communities.
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You are receiving this email from Communities in Bloom, a national non-profit organization with charity status. For comments or questions, please contact us at
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