Desjardins Foundation Celebrates Those Making a Difference in Young People’s Lives

Students who can focus on their studies rather than juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet. Teachers who receive the funding they need to launch projects that spark young people's passions. Behind every donation to the Desjardins Foundation lies a real domino effect: helping hands that make a concrete difference in the lives of thousands of young people.

It was to celebrate these successes that some 200 people gathered on October 9 at the recognition evening organized by the Desjardins Foundation. The goal: to highlight the tangible impact of the commitment of donors, partners, volunteers and fundraising organizers. "Thanks to you, these young people can believe in their dreams and have confidence in their future," said Nancy Lee, Executive Director of the Desjardins Foundation.

Remarkable Progress

The numbers speak for themselves. Over the past year, more than 4,000 scholarships were awarded by the Foundation, numerous caisses and several Desjardins supplier partners. No less than 34,000 applications were received! These scholarships aim to reward students' commitment and perseverance, beyond academic results.

In addition, 772 projects received financial support through the Desjardins Foundation Prizes, which enable teachers to receive up to $3,000 to carry out a project with young people from kindergarten through high school.

In 10 years, the Desjardins Foundation's capacity for action has quadrupled, increasing from $1.7 million to nearly $7 million in direct donations to support young people.

"Education is one of the best tools we have to give people hope, confidence, a sense of competence and usefulness," says Denis Dubois, President and Chief Executive Officer of Desjardins Group.

Impact Beyond the Classroom

But beyond the statistics, lives are being changed. Several testimonials about the impact of scholarships and Desjardins Foundation Prizes were shared during the evening.

Louis Laroche, a teacher, designed a project that allows students to create podcasts. "It gives young people confidence. I heard about a student who spoke to her entire class for the first time thanks to this program," he says.

For Lyne Joyal, also a teacher, the Foundation's support had an impact not only on her students, but also within her community. After launching an urban garden project with her students, she found that "people joined our initiative because it really makes sense pedagogically. Our children became responsible for nurturing a small garden. It may be small to us, but it's huge for them!"

This collective commitment by Desjardins to young people is significant, Ms. Joyal notes: "We felt that with the support of the Desjardins Foundation, we had a shield protecting us. "

A future shaped by commitment

The evening of October 9 highlighted what collective engagement can achieve: transformed journeys, passions revealed, and communities mobilized. Thanks to the generosity and vision of those who support the Desjardins Foundation, education becomes a true lever of hope and change. Together, let’s continue to believe in the power of small gestures that, when multiplied, change lives.