Grant and Funding Programs Offered by AREF
Overview of Available Grants and Funding
AREF, or the Regional Academy of Education and Training, is a key institution in the educational system. Its main mission is to support and coordinate educational policies at the regional level, ensuring the quality and effectiveness of teaching programs. By working closely with local stakeholders, AREF plays a vital role in implementing reform initiatives and adapting national educational strategies to the specific needs of each region. View AREF's website for more information.
Content last updated: January 29, 2026
About AREF
What is AREF's official website?
AREF's official website is https://aref-neq.ca/.
What else should I know about AREF?
Discovering AREF: Support and Benefits for Retired Educators
AREF, or the Association of Retired Teachers (Association des Retraitées et Retraités de l'Enseignement), is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life, protection, and rights of its members. Whether you are a recent retiree, a longtime educator, or someone associated with the teaching profession, AREF provides a comprehensive support network and exclusive group insurance opportunities.
Our Mission: Advocacy and Well-being
AREF's mission is to contribute to the well-being of its members by defending their rights and ensuring their financial and personal security post-retirement. This includes access to group health and life insurance plans, as well as opportunities to participate in humanitarian and civic projects sponsored by members.
Becoming a Member
Membership is open not just to retired teachers, but also to associate members—even if you have never been a teacher. This inclusivity ensures access to collective insurance benefits under contract 1011 with the insurer Beneva. Becoming a member is a straightforward process involving the completion and submission of registration and insurance forms to the AREF secretariat.
Comprehensive Insurance Solutions
AREF acts as the holder of a collective insurance contract providing health, travel, and life coverage. Members benefit from:
- Medical and accident protection
- Exclusive rates for auto, home, and recreational vehicle insurance
- Support for dependents under certain conditions
- Insurance maintenance options following major life events (retirement, disability, loss of spouse)
Adhering, Modifying, or Cancelling Your Coverage
Members can manage their insurance according to personal needs. At any time, it's possible to reduce or withdraw certain benefits, update personal details, or modify beneficiaries. Upon retirement or changes in life circumstances such as disability, divorce, or loss of a spouse, specific procedures and deadlines apply for maintaining or adjusting coverage. Prompt communication with the secretariat is essential to ensure uninterrupted benefits.
AREF Membership Beyond Teaching
AREF welcomes associate members—allowing continued insurance and community involvement even for those who were never educators. Following the loss of a spouse or significant life changes, associate members can retain coverage for a limited period and under certain conditions, ensuring support during transitions.
Staying Connected and Informed
The Association provides regular updates through newsletters and its AREF-Info publication, keeping members informed about benefits, rights, and opportunities. Members can also get involved by proposing or participating in civic and humanitarian projects, further enriching their retirement experience.
Join AREF Today
Whether you are newly retired or looking for support after years outside the teaching profession, AREF offers guidance, solidarity, and practical services designed specifically for retirees. Enjoy peace of mind, community engagement, and tailored insurance protection by joining AREF.