Sometimes in life, a single encounter can change everything. For youth in the care of the DYP, that might be someone who opens a door to a brighter future, words that reveal hidden potential, an organization that reaches out at just the right moment, or someone who offers reassuring and comforting support.
These people and organizations are true unsung heroes working behind the scenes, and they deserve to be recognized. Because through their small and big acts of kindness, they bring light into the lives of young people facing difficult circumstances, they spark hope where it has faded, and they illuminate the path forward with confidence.
For youth in care, these people and organizations are Beacons of Hope—or, as we call them, Les Lumineux. And that’s why the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ has chosen this name for its new awards officially launching this year, with the inaugural ceremony set for September 2026.
Why we created these recognition awards
Through these awards, the Fondation wishes to express its gratitude and celebrate those who champion our cause, supporting youth in care across Quebec and making a real difference for their well-being.
The awards will be presented every two years to individuals and organizations that stand out for their dedication, including volunteers, partners, support workers, management staff, and young adults who have received youth protection services. Because our impact is felt throughout Quebec, the Fondation is opening nominations to individuals and organizations that support youth in care across the province.
Who are the awards open to?
At each awards ceremony, we will be presenting four awards to inspiring and impactful Beacons of Hope in the following categories:
Volunteer (individual nomination)
This award recognizes individuals who volunteer their time assisting with activities for current and former youth in care or individuals who make a difference in the lives of those youth.
Important: The nomination must be for an individual, not an organization.
Network Partner (individual nomination)
This award recognizes support workers and management staff at youth welfare institutions or organizations for going above and beyond to make a profound difference in the life of one or more youth in care.
Nominations may include individuals whose work is not related to projects that are currently being funded or have been funded by the Fondation.
Partner Organization
This award recognizes organizations whose programs—currently or previously funded by the Fondation—are helping to expand the reach and impact of our cause, creating positive change for youth in care.
Youth (18–30 years old) (individual nomination)
This award is for young adults aged 18–30 who have navigated the youth welfare or youth justice system and whose inspiring journeys deserve to be recognized.
The nomination can be submitted by the young adult themselves or by someone close to them (with their permission). The nominee must be willing to have their identity disclosed publicly.
Who can submit a nomination?
- The individual or organization being nominated.
- A third party on behalf of an individual or organization, provided that the individual or organization being nominated is aware of the nomination and has given their approval.
- The nominee themselves with the help of a third party, for nominations in the “Youth (18–30 years old)”
What must the nomination package include?
To be considered complete, the package must include:
- One or two letters of support for the nomination.
- The completed nomination form, outlining the nominee’s profile and impact, and giving the Fondation permission to disclose the nominee’s identity and share images of the nominee when the finalists are announced.
- A video introduction, up to 2 minutes in length (optional asset).
*If the file is too large to send by email, you can send us a link or use the free online service WeTransfer.
What does the selection process involve?
Nominations will be reviewed by a jury, based on the criteria outlined in the nomination form.
Key dates to remember (2026 awards ceremony):
- Nominations open: February 24–May 8, 2026
- Review period begins: May 2026
- Finalists and award recipients announced: September 2026
Help us shine a light on those who deserve it
If you know of an individual, an organization, a former youth in care aged 18–30 or a network partner whose contributions deserve to be recognized, please share this information with them and encourage them to apply.
Please send the completed form and supporting documents by email to: leslumineux@fjdpj.ca