Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Fondation Jeunesse des Laurentides

Role of Fondation Jeunesse des Laurentides in the funding ecosystem

Fondation Jeunesse des Laurentides is a non-profit charitable foundation created in 2025 following the merger of the Fondation du Centre jeunesse des Laurentides and the Fondation André-Boudreau. Based in Saint-Jérôme, it is the only foundation entirely dedicated to the well-being of young people aged 0 to 25 in the Laurentides region. Working in close complementarity with the CISSS des Laurentides and youth protection services, it intervenes where public programs are insufficient, by providing targeted financial and material support.

The foundation maintains and consolidates all the programs of the two former organizations. Its portfolio includes support for young people facing major difficulties, particularly those followed by the DPJ, as well as initiatives aimed at preventing and treating addictions (substances, vaping and screens), reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Main types of support and programs

Through around ten support programs, the foundation offers a mix of direct financial assistance, project-based funding and in-kind support. Among the key themes are:

• Emergency and basic needs funding through a first-necessity fund to respond quickly to crises such as unexpected moves, urgent transport, clothing or food needs.
• Support for studies to help young people stay in school by easing financial and personal barriers that threaten their educational path.
• Transition to independent living with programs like « Je pars en appart », which provide assistance when youth age out of youth protection and must move into their first apartment.
• Prevention and treatment of addictions via programs targeting substance use, vaping and problematic screen use, often in partnership with rehabilitation and mental health services.
• Well-being and mental health campaigns, including the « Respire, on est là pour toi ! » initiative and its digital portal, which offers tools, educational resources and awareness content for youth, parents and professionals.
• Special projects, camps and dreams fulfilled through funding for day and vacation camps, group development projects, the « Réalise ton rêve » program, and the Père-Noël initiative that offers gifts to children and teens under DPJ tutelage.

Supported audiences and overall impact

The foundation focuses on young people in vulnerable situations in the Laurentides — those at risk or already struggling with serious social, family or personal issues. Its interventions also extend to families and those around them, recognizing the importance of a supportive environment. By financing concrete projects and direct aid, it encourages autonomy, social integration and the development of each young person’s potential.

Transparency, governance and accountability

The organization emphasizes integrity, partnership, respect, consideration and proximity. Its board of directors is composed of volunteer administrators, and general management oversees day-to-day operations. Each year, Fondation Jeunesse des Laurentides publishes an annual report detailing achievements, supported projects and the impact of its actions, thereby demonstrating transparency towards donors, institutional partners and the community.