Our history

From Montréal to you

Deeply rooted in Montreal, our Foundation extends its impact beyond the city through meaningful collaboration with regional partners. Together, united in purpose, we can amplify our efforts to inspire change near and far.

Since it was created, the Fondation has evolved thanks to the contribution of the community and the commitment of passionate partners. Every milestone in our history is a testament to our determination to change how youths in care see their future by giving them the courage and confidence to believe in a world of possibilities. 

And today…

From Montréal to you


In 2022, a national funding envelope was created and the Fondation launched its first call for proposals to provide financial support to projects that help youths in the care of the DYP across Quebec. Every year since then, this support has been renewed, and the available budget keeps growing thanks to the generosity of our donors.

2023

The Soirée des Grands signature event kicks off

The Soirée des Grands is a fundraising event that raises awareness among a large business community about the realities faced by youth in care. The first edition of the event was a resounding success with 600 guests and raising a net amount of $808,000! This gala is now a can’t-miss event for Quebec’s business community.

2021

Expanded mission, new identity


“When you can do more, you must do more.” The Fondation expanded its mission, changed its visual identity and renamed itself the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ. Not only does it better reflect the impact of its actions, the Fondation can now help youths in the care of the DYP across the province. Anaïs Favron associates with the cause by becoming its new spokesperson. This revamping was hailed by politicians and earned the Fondation several awards in Quebec.

2020

First Christmas campaign


At the height of the pandemic, the Fondation launched its first major Christmas campaign by making an urgent appeal to the public. Considering the ongoing health crisis, the needs were pressing. The response was immediate: in just a few weeks, $500,000 was raised. From then on, the Fondation earned a special spot in the heart of Quebecers during the holidays.

2017

Creation of the Emerging Leaders Committee

The Emerging Leaders Committee brings young philanthropists around the cause of youths in care. These dynamic professionals step up by setting up activities for young people, such as Out of the Boxe or Christmas workshops, and organize fundraising events, including Nuit Eden.

2015

The first Gala Méritas


At its first-ever Gala Méritas, the Fondation celebrated grade school and high school students for staying in school, and earning their diploma! From then on, it became a much anticipated annual event. In 2024, this gala merged with the post-secondary student event so younger students could get inspired by the older ones earning their vocational/college diplomas and university degrees.

2013

Distinct programs to meet the needs of youths

Programs that the Fondation put into place are redefined to cover a broader range of needs of youths in the care of the DYP. The programs are now focused on getting youths to stay in school, the transition to adulthood, self-esteem and healthy lifestyle habits, support for families, innovative interventions and magical moments.

1998

Creation of the Fondation du Centre jeunesse de Montréal

The Fondation is the result of a merger between two organizations dedicated to supporting troubled youths—Les Amis de Rose Virginie Pelletier and Fondation Jeunespérance.