Role of the Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The Foundation of Friends and Alumni of Externat Mont-Jésus-Marie (FAAEMJM) is the philanthropic arm of the Externat Mont-Jésus-Marie, a private preschool and primary school in Montréal. Composed mainly of volunteer parents, it plans and runs fundraising activities and campaigns throughout the year. The funds collected from current parents, former parents and alumni are used to support strategic projects submitted each year by the school’s general management.
Since 2006, the foundation has financed the purchase of numerous pieces of educational equipment and infrastructure, including a digital scoreboard for the gym, library furniture, kitchen and cafeteria equipment, stage equipment, musical instruments such as pianos, classroom furniture from kindergarten to grade 6, and interactive whiteboards, iPads and other technological tools. It also contributed to the creation of specialized spaces like the technology lab and vivarium and to the renovation and layout of several classrooms and common areas.
Types of financial support offered
Beyond capital projects, the foundation provides direct financial support. It has set up the annual “Bourse de l’Étoile”, a recurring bursary aimed at supporting pupils according to criteria defined with the school. It also offers financial assistance to families in need, helping to maintain access to the school’s educational offering. In addition, the foundation contributes to educational and cultural projects such as student participation in external activities, for example musical festivals for the school’s elite harmony.
The foundation therefore acts both as a funder of school infrastructure and equipment and as a provider of targeted financial aid and bursaries for students and families.
Governance, donors and recognition
The FAAEMJM is governed by a board of directors made up of a president, secretary, treasurer and several administrators. As a registered charity with Canadian and Québec tax authorities, it can issue official donation receipts. Donations may be made online, by cheque or through other mechanisms such as gifts of securities.
To recognize its donors, the foundation operates a formal donor recognition program featuring an honour board installed at the school entrance. Donors are recognized according to contribution levels, with specific rules for the display of names. These mechanisms illustrate the foundation’s concern for transparency, equity and gratitude towards those who financially support the school community.