Stories that inspire

LOVE (Québec) was founded in 1993 by Sheila (Twinkle) Rudberg, who wanted to contribute to ending the cycles of violence occurring in young people’s lives. When her husband was killed by a 14-year-old boy, Twinkle came to see that the youth was himself a victim of violence. Before long, the LOVE project came to be known and appreciated in Quebec, and continued to prove its effectiveness as it launched successful programs in Toronto, Halifax and Vancouver. The organization is also one of the 12 members of the Tools of Peace Network (see article above).

Today’s world is especially unforgiving for young people who have suffered when encountering physical, mental or emotional difficulties, or who have experienced various forms of discrimination. More than 70 % of the young people LOVE (Québec) has helped are victims of bullying, violence or discrimination, either within their own homes or in their communities.

The organization’s mission is to get young people to thrive through programs that foster healthy relationships, thus developing their emotional intelligence and helping them overcome the challenges they face. LOVE (Québec) offers more than 30 innovative programs in media arts and leadership in 25 schools throughout Greater Montreal. The programs are presented in the most at-risk areas. They bring together young people from 12 to 21 years of age, from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Each year, LOVE (Québec) helps more than 800 youths navigate a process of self-discovery that takes them on the path to becoming leaders in their schools and communities.

LOVE helped me become a better person, find out who I am and where I belong in life. LOVE made a huge difference by helping me to turn my anger and pain into something positive. – Sarah, LOVE (Québec) Youth