Stories that inspire
The Foundation of Greater Montréal supports hundreds of community organizations in every sector. Their work enhances the well-being of the entire community, including that of its most vulnerable individuals. All our gratitude goes out to the men and women who work day in and day out to bring a better quality of life to all.
Our thanks go as well to FGM donors and fund creators, whose philanthropic efforts bring to life the values they embody: solidarity, generosity and community engagement. It is through their commitment that the Foundation and its partner organizations can have a real impact on the well-being of Greater Montréal’s population. Here are some of their stories.
The Maxwell F. Yalden Bursary Fund
Maxwell Yalden (1930-2015) was a distinguished human rights defender, both at home and abroad. He was the second Commissioner of Official Languages of Canada (1977-1984) and subsequently served as Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission (1987-1996). Mr. Yalden was twice elected a member of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, serving from 1996 to 2004. Throughout his career, Mr. Yalden fought for the protection and promotion of human rights. His dedication has made him an inspiration for future generations. After his passing, Mr. Yalden’s son Robert and daughter in law Pearl Eliadis wanted to create a bursary fund…
The Jean E. Douville Bursaries
Jean E. and Lucille Douville were already deeply involved in philanthropy when they decided to create a fund with the Foundation of Greater Montréal in 2017. "This solution not only freed us from administrative tasks," they explain, "it guaranteed us that our fund would be managed in a professional way. We’re also able to keep abreast of any related activities, and, in consultation with FGM, direct income generated by the fund to recipients of our choosing." Their choice will also ensure the long-term viability of the Fonds Fondation Jean E. et Lucille Douville. An exceptional gift But there is more to this…
The Fondation Famille Kenny Tang’s Impact Bursary
Kenny Tang has been actively involved with the Foundation of Greater Montréal for nearly 10 years. After having served on the Investment Committee for six years, he became a Foundation Board Member in 2020. He has served on the Audit Committee since then, and returned to service on the Investment Committee this year. In March of 2020, he launched the Fonds Fondation Famille Kenny Tang at FGM. It was created by Mr. Tang to honour the memory of Baby Mathis, to exemplify values of sharing, mutual aid and generosity, and experience them with his daughters Mila and Nora. The fund…
The Fonds 0rijin Village
The mission of the Fonds 0rijin Village is to support the organization’s mission, which is to address the chronic economic disparity in Afro-descendant communities. « Our path led us to an undeniable truth: equality of opportunity is the bedrock on which fair and prosperous societies are built. This is why I created the Fonds 0rijin Village, to breathe new energy into our commitment towards FGM's vital mission. Together, we can break the shackles of economic disparity in our Afro-descendant communities, and build a future where every individual can live up to their potential, regardless of their origins. It is our duty…
Profiles in Philanthropy:
Karen Macdonald
Trained as a journalist, Karen Macdonald has been the Station Manager and News Director at Global Montreal since 2006. For 15 years, she and her husband François Vézina were the co-owners and co-publishers of the Quebec Chronicle-Telegraph, North America’s oldest newspaper. A native of Prince Edward Island, Ms. Macdonald grew up in Quebec City and eventually made her home in Montreal along with her family. Passionate about issues that affect the community, she joined the Board of Directors of the Foundation of Greater Montréal in 2018, becoming Vice-Chair in 2021, and Chair in 2023. Prior to that, she had been…
Profiles in Philanthropy:
Kees van Draanen
Kees van Draanen grew up in a family where faith and mutual support were important values. His parents gave time and money to causes that were close to their hearts. He has continued to hold these values dear, and feels that even if someone is not wealthy, “one has a responsibility to share when one can.” Mr. van Draanen has been involved in the arts since his youth, and made his career in the field as well. He believes that “everyone should have the opportunity to experience extraordinary moments in concert halls, theatres, art galleries, etc.” So that is where…