2024-2025 Annual report
Challenges met, hundreds of people helped
A Word from the President and CEO
Dear Members of the Portage Community,
I accepted the role of President and CEO of Portage last September with a feeling of profound humility and a deep sense of responsibility. From my very first days leading this exceptional organization, I have been inspired by the remarkable dedication of our teams, the excellent quality of services provided, the resilience of our residents and the powerful bond that unites us all around a shared goal: helping individuals overcome substance dependence and rediscover hope, dignity and autonomy.
When I took on this role, I inherited a rich legacy that has been developed over the decades by passionate and committed people. Their legacy inspires me every day to exercise leadership that is human, thorough and focused on innovation. As the need for mental health and substance dependence treatment continues to evolve, Portage must be more agile, creative and bold than ever before while staying true to its core principles.
Over the past year, I have visited several of our centres and spoken with members of our clinical and administrative teams as well as partners and donors. This proximity has strengthened my conviction that Portage is a vital source of support for thousands of adolescents, adults and families across the country. Together, we change lives.
A New Leadership Cycle and Vision
The past year marked a pivotal phase in the history of Portage, borne by a will to structure our governance process and ensure a healthy division of powers. After more than fifty years of operation, a major and forward-looking transition has started taking shape with the separation of tasks previously assumed by the founding president. In 2024, this transition ushered in an important period of organizational transformation for the board of trustees, executive management and related entities.
Geneviève Lefebvre
President and CEO
The appointment of a new chairman of the board of trustees in September 2023, followed by my appointment as president and CEO in 2024, marked the beginning of a renewed governance and leadership cycle. As part of this renewal, several organizational measures were introduced: adopting a new organizational chart for our headquarters, reviewing the mandates of the board of trustees’ standing committees and updating our general by-laws. All these measures have strengthened our ability to meet future challenges and seize new opportunities, for the benefit of our mission and the people we help.
Resilience and Partnerships for a Sound Future
Faced with major financial challenges, we had to make some hard decisions over the past year, including reducing our accommodation capacity in the province of Québec by 24%. While difficult, this measure was vital to preserving what makes us strong: the quality and integrity of our services.
In Ontario, a significant chapter of our history came to an end with the closing of our facilities in the province. While this was a difficult decision, we made sure it was implemented with care by providing support to each person affected by the closures, until their rehabilitation journey was completed. Our aftercare services and family support groups were maintained. Ensuring the continuity of these services reflects our steadfast commitment to the people we support. Today, we look to the future with confidence. A new agreement with the Québec government is nearing completion and our partnership with the government of New Brunswick remains strong, with a shared commitment to developing and expanding our services in the province. Portage is committed to remaining a trusted partner for governments and health networks that rely on us.
With this in mind, Portage maintains and develops strategic alliances with many partners, including entities from the Government of New Brunswick and the Government of Quebec—particularly Santé Québec—as well as hospitals, the justice system, organizations providing support for mental health and homelessness, First Nations and Inuit communities, and the Université de Sherbrooke. Through this collaboration, our employees have the opportunity to earn a certificate in addiction studies while continuing to work, fostering the professional development of our teams.
Our expertise has been highlighted in academic and professional circles. This year, as part of the AFINet convention, two conferences were held at Laval University: one on family support groups in the context of external therapy services and another on parent and adolescent support groups.
These strategic partnerships strengthen the stability of our organization and reinforce our mission: to provide rehabilitation and social reintegration services that rise to the aspirations and challenges of all those in need.
The Invaluable Contribution of Community Support
Among the partners who, year after year, enable us to pursue our mission with hundreds of individuals are our donors, to whom we extend our heartfelt gratitude. All those who choose to support our mission help us enhance our services and respond more effectively to the needs of our residents. Giving to Portage is far more than a financial contribution, it is a concrete commitment and a powerful expression of trust in those we serve.
Thanks to the support Portage receives, we are confident in our ability to carry forward our mission, to innovate, and to further strengthen our impact in the community. You provide us not only with the means to do so, but also with the reassurance that we are not alone in these efforts. In the year ahead, we will continue to do everything possible to honour that trust and maximize the impact of your support.
Working Together to Build a Hopeful Future
Building on the steps taken over the past year, we will soon begin developing our 2026-2029 strategic plan. This process will be both engaging and inclusive, bringing together all the driving forces of our organization with the goal of shaping a shared vision and establishing strong directions for the future.
Portage wants to harness its full potential to become a force for sustainable change in the lives of individuals struggling with substance dependence. We want to offer communities accessible, innovative services that are deeply rooted in the realities of the people we help.
In close partnership with the governments of Québec and New Brunswick, and thanks to our strong network of collaborators, we are determined to respond quickly and effectively to the increasing and pressing needs of the populations we serve.
One of our projects, to open an external day centre in Moncton, New Brunswick, will be an important milestone. Designed in cooperation with local organizations, this space will welcome and support adolescents and young adults, provide a gateway to recovery and facilitate access to all Portage services.
True to our mission and our commitment to ongoing improvement, we are strengthening our ties with First Nations and Inuit communities to work together to design solutions that are tailored to their cultures and respectful of their values, traditions and realities.
Working Together Toward a More Supportive and Inclusive Future
As we start a new page of our history, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who contribute to our mission.
Thank you to our board of trustees for their strategic vision and their confidence.
To the executive management and directors of our centres, whose commitment and leadership are an inspiration to our entire organization.
I also want to thank our employees who transform lives every day through your compassion and professionalism.
Many thanks to our donors, partners and volunteers: please know that your support is vital in giving our residents hope for a brighter future.
To our residents, be assured that you are at the heart of our mission. We are deeply grateful for your trust and your dedication to this journey.
The coming year will be pivotal as we work to strengthen our impact, improve access to services and continue to innovate in order to address the realities of today and tomorrow. I am convinced that we will achieve these objectives by building on the strength of our community, employees, donors, volunteers, partners and friends.
Together, we are not only supporting people during their recovery, we are building a stronger, more inclusive and more compassionate society.
Geneviève Lefebvre
President and CEO
Paul Côté
Chair of the Board of Trustees
A Word from the Chair of the Board of Trustees
In 2023, I had the honour of being appointed Chair of the Portage Board of Trustees. I took up my mandate with three clearly defined and structuring goals: to clarify the division of roles between the chairmanship of the Board and the executive management of the organization; to oversee and highlight the rigorous process that led to the hiring of the new president and chief executive officer; and, lastly, to conduct a thorough review of our general by-laws in accordance with the requirements of a modern, transparent and efficient governance process.
These undertakings were carried out in a thorough, open and highly collaborative manner. Today, as my term comes to a close, I am leaving behind a strong foundation that will support Portage during its new governance and leadership cycle. This transition follows the departure of our founding president and marks a pivotal moment as Portage embarks on a period of renewal that will preserve its spirit while strengthening its organizational structure and its resilience for years to come.
I wish to convey my deep gratitude to the members of the Board of Trustees for their steadfast commitment, to Mr. Peter Howlett for his founding vision of Portage and his outstanding contribution throughout the decades, to Ms. Geneviève Lefebvre, our new president and chief executive officer, for her inspiring energy and her determination, and to the management team and employees of Portage for their dedication to the youth and adults we support.
Thanks to you, Portage is ready to write a new chapter of its history.
2024–2025: Advancing Sustainable Recovery
Portage is proud to offer rehabilitation services that combine rigor, compassion, and innovation. Our person-centered approach ensures attentive support at every stage of the recovery journey, with seamless transitions and ongoing support for loved ones.
We enhance our mission through complementary services that increase the likelihood of success for our clients:
- Free employability services offered through our partners (MIRE in Montreal and the training center in Quebec City)
- La Ribambelle, a specialized daycare for mothers in recovery
- 41 supervised apartments to support post-treatment stability
The year 2024–2025 was marked by numerous accomplishments that strengthened our impact, including:
- New premises for MIRE and strengthened partnerships with key organizations such as La Maison du Père, Moisson Montréal, and UQAM
- Successful integration of parent-adolescent groups and intensive weekend sessions in Saint-Malachie, enhancing family support
- Deployment of a community outreach worker at Lac Echo for youth prevention, made possible by the Leblanc Family Foundation
- Standardization of the social reintegration program across Quebec, ensuring consistency and continuity in service delivery
- Launch of a new English-speaking support group for families, promoting accessibility and cultural inclusivity
- Expanded reintegration activities in collaboration with L’Atelier, an alternative mental health resource that uses arts and crafts as therapeutic tools for socialization and personal development, benefiting participants in the Mental Health and Addiction program.
- Strengthened expertise with the addition of three new social workers to the Quebec City outpatient program, improving access to psychosocial assessments and mental health partnerships
- Portage reaffirmed its commitment to co-develop initiatives with First Nations and Inuit community organizations, holding meetings with regional health bodies to discuss challenges and identify solutions collaboratively. Two Indigenous organizations in Montreal have expressed interest in partnering to create a culturally adapted treatment center aligned with the values, traditions, and realities of their communities
- Initiatives led by the user committee modernized informational tools and improved communication regarding rights and available resources
- The peer mentorship program in Atlantic Canada enabled the Cassidy Lake residential centre for youth to hire five youth following their therapy. This initiative aims to provide a professional opportunity for graduates of the rehabilitation program.
- The reorganization of adult services and the day centre in Montreal, offers external support to individuals awaiting placement in a residential centre. This service helps initiate their recovery journey in a structured environment. In addition, agreements have been established with housing resources in the Montreal area to accommodate clients coming from remote regions.
These developments reflect our unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and listening — building, alongside our partners and clients, an environment that fosters sustainable recovery and successful reintegration.
Inauguration of the Marcelle and Jean Coutu Pavilion
On May 6, 2025, Portage inaugurated the new Marcelle and Jean Coutu Pavilion at the Lac Écho residential centre in Prévost to replace a former, outdated structure built in 1939. The new pavilion welcomes adolescents and young adults struggling with addiction.
We are proud to announce that we exceeded our fundraising goal, reaching a total of $5.3 million. Ms. Marie-Josée Coutu, President of the Marcelle and Jean Coutu Foundation and a Portage partner for more than 30 years, highlighted the importance of this philanthropic project. Ms. Colette Taylor, Vice President of Philanthropic Development, expressed Portage’s deep gratitude toward all its partners, and especially the Marcelle and Jean Coutu Foundation, for their outstanding support.
$5.3M
Geneviève Lefebvre Joins Portage as its New President and CEO
On September 9, 2024, Ms. Geneviève Lefebvre became President and CEO of Portage, succeeding Founding President Mr. Peter A. Howlett. A seasoned clinician and manager, Ms. Lefebvre brings recognized expertise in the fields of addiction and mental health, as well as strong skills in change management. Her career path, marked by a deep commitment to the well-being of individuals, aligns perfectly with Portage’s mission. Her appointment as president and CEO signals a new phase in the organization’s evolution as it celebrates more than 50 years of positive social impact. Portage extends its heartfelt thanks to Mr. Howlett for his outstanding dedication and inspiring legacy.
They Built Portage: A Tribute to Peter A. Howlett and Peter Vamos
This year, Portage turned an important page in its history. Mr. Peter A. Howlett, the founding president of the organization, retired and passed the torch to Ms. Geneviève Lefebvre after more than 50 years in the role. Driven by a steadfast commitment to helping people struggling with addiction, Mr. Howlett helped Portage become a leader in the field of rehabilitation in Canada.
This year also marked the retirement of Mr. Peter Vamos, the second historic figure of the organization. For 46 years, Mr. Vamos contributed to the development of Portage’s unique clinical approach and rehabilitation programs. With the departure of the “two Peters,” Portage wishes to pay tribute to its builders and thank them for their exceptional work, which has enabled tens of thousands of people to live sober and dignified lives.
The Elora Centre Closes its Doors
After 40 years of dedicated service, our rehabilitation centre in Elora, Ontario, has closed its doors due to financial and economic challenges that could not be overcome despite our best efforts. This difficult and emotional decision was made with the greatest attention to the well-being of our clients. We made sure every person undergoing treatment was able to continue therapy without interruption by facilitating their transition to another Portage centre.
The closure of the Elora centre is also an opportunity to highlight the inspiring journeys of everyone who overcame their addiction and took back control of their lives over the last four decades. Thanks to a compassionate approach centred on each individual’s well-being, we supported hundreds of adolescents on their path to a better life and a successful reintegration into their community.
Portage in the Community: Presence at Aire Ouverte Kirkland and the Moncton Youth Hub
Portage has increased its presence among young people in the community by partnering with Aire Ouverte Kirkland (Québec) and the Moncton Youth Hub (New Brunswick). Thanks to these partnerships, our teams can offer free, confidential and accessible services to individuals aged 12 to 25 and their families. This includes on-site assessment, listening and support services as well as scheduled or unscheduled meetings held in welcoming settings where young people can get the right help at the right time. Discover how Portage supports young people’s well-being in their own community.
Visit of the National Director of Youth Protection to Portage Lac Echo
The Portage Lac Echo Centre welcomed the National Director of Youth Protection, Ms. Lesley Hill, for a memorable visit. The event highlighted the important work being done with troubled youth as well as fostering constructive dialogue on current rehabilitation issues. The visit also emphasized the need for cooperation among various stakeholders to help youth achieve a better future.
Client Profiles and Positive Impact on the Community
Thanks to your support, Portage has helped thousands of people on their journey to recovery. The information below shows just how much we can help and how transformative our programs can be for our clients and their families.
Number of people assisted, by service type
Most frequently used substances
We offer services to individuals of all ages with substance use issues. A large proportion of our clients (nearly 70%) use more than one substance.
Our services welcome individuals struggling with various addictions. The most frequently mentioned substances are: cannabis, cocaine, alcohol, amphetamines, and methamphetamines.
Among adolescents
Most frequently used substances:
Among adults
Most frequently used substances:
Knowing these patterns helps us tailor our interventions to the specific needs of each age group.
Average duration of substance use and stay in a residential centre
Substance use history varies according to age, both in terms of duration of use prior to admission and length of stay in a residential centre.
Among adolescents and young adults (ages 14 to 21)
Among adults (ages 22 and older) :
This data highlights the importance of tailoring treatment approaches to different age groups in order to better respond to their specific needs.
What Participants Are Saying About Their Social Reintegration
In October 2024, Portage conducted a preliminary survey to assess the social return on investment (SROI) of its reintegration programs. The goal was to evaluate the social, economic and personal changes experienced by individuals who had completed their program in order to gain more insight into the impact of their social reintegration.
The survey consisted of 16 self-assessment questions and was completed by 175 Portage graduates who were still taking part in the organization’s external service programs. The respondents evaluated the extent to which each statement reflected changes they had observed in their own lives, on a scale of one (completely disagree) to seven (completely agree). The data was collected confidentially, in person or by phone, and analyzed at Portage headquarters.
The following results show the percentage of respondents who reported a positive impact (ratings 5 to 7) on various aspects of their lives:
Testimonials: How our Programs Help People
Every person who steps through the door of a Portage centre embarks on a unique, often difficult, but profoundly transformative journey. In the following testimonials, you will discover the human impact of our programs, not only on the individuals who come to Portage, but on their families and communities. Below are two moving testimonials that illustrate how our mission helps people.
«Portage not only healed my son, but it helped turn him into the well-adjusted, kind, caring man that he is today. […] Even long after he had ‘graduated’ from Portage, the aftercare gave him an outlet to speak confidentially with counsellors and other graduates about the highs and lows of being a sober teen. Oh, and the family group? Attend it. Trust us — you have no idea how badly you need it until you do! […] Portage truly gave us our family back — and for that, we will be timelessly grateful.»
Jaymee and Mark, parents –Family Support Group Program, Portage Atlantic
« Even when I wanted to run, when I said I was too broken, when I was ready to give up… someone still believed in me. Someone was fighting for me. And then, one day, I learned to stand tall—without crutches. That’s when I knew: it was my turn to be there for others. To give back what had been so generously given to me. What I once thought was impossible, I accomplished. And through this journey, I found a family. Now, no matter where I go, I know I have a place I can call home. »
Tess, Adolescents and Young Adults Program, Lac Écho
Impact of Your Donations
QUEBEC
Portage is partially funded by the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux but also relies on private sector support to enhance its services and adapt them to today’s reality. To do so, the Portage Foundation leads two annual fundraising campaigns—one in the Greater Montreal area and the other in the Quebec City region. Each campaign is spearheaded by a committee of business individuals who care about our cause and engage their network to help us reach our overall goal of $2 million.
All funds raised go directly to Portage programs in Quebec, with specific needs identified for each centre.
$2M
$2M
Below are complementary enrichment activities that are essential to successful therapy:
Portage provides its clients with a rehabilitation journey that is unique in Quebec, guiding them from admission through to social reintegration. The moment they arrive at Portage, young people continue their education through on-site classes. The Portage Foundation supports the following essential services:
ATLANTIC
Portage Atlantic is funded in part by the Government of New Brunswick and also relies on the generosity of donors to enrich its services and meet the evolving needs of youth and families across the Atlantic provinces.
All donations made to Portage Atlantic remain in the region and directly support our programs and services.
$324K
$324K
Thanks to this support, Portage Atlantic offers complementary therapeutic activities that are essential to the rehabilitation journey.
Donations to the Portage Atlantic Foundation also supports the following essential services:
These initiatives made possible in part, by donor contributions, help Portage Atlantic offer a unique and transformative experience to youth in need.
The Portage Foundation in Quebec
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, partners and volunteers, we’ve been able to organize inspiring, community-building events that have helped us raise essential funds in support of our rehabilitation programs.
We want to thank the Chair of the annual fundraising campaign in Montreal, Guy Nadeau, Vice-President, Desjardins Business Montreal, and the Chair of the campaign in Quebec City, André Roy, President of PMT Roy Insurance and Financial Services from 2011 to 2023, for their unwavering support over the years.
Every donation helps transform lives—whether through the Soirée des Grands Philanthropes event, our golf tournaments, or creative initiatives such as the Tout en couleur art exhibition and Défi Sans Dépendance, a cycling challenge to support youth in recovery. We are deeply grateful to all those who have believed in our mission and who, through their commitment, have helped young people and adults alike rediscover hope for a brighter future and to better give back to society.
21st edition of La Soirée des Grands Philanthropes – Tribute to Eric La Flèche
On October 3, 2024, Portage raised a net amount of $1,400,000 during the tribute evening honoring Mr. Eric La Flèche, President and Chief Executive Officer of METRO inc.
A total of 780 guests were welcomed at the Windsor Station’s Salle des pas perdus, as well as 135 guests in Québec City, who took part in the Montreal event live from the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
26th edition of the Golf and Cycling Event at the Laval-sur-le-Lac Golf Club
The 26th edition of the Golf and Cycling Event took place at the renowned Laval-sur-le-Lac Golf Club on Monday, June 3, basking in perfect summer weather.
This event brought together 136 enthusiastic golfers and 36 motivated cyclists, proving to be a resounding success and raising a net total of $150,000.
29th Golf Open at the Royal Québec Golf Club
Portage’s 29th edition of the Golf Open was held at the prestigious Royal Quebec Golf Club on Monday, June 10th.
Our heartfelt thanks to honorary chair Martin Vézina, Vice-President, iA Financial Group’s Quebec and Atlantic Independent Sales Network—and to the organizing committee for its dedication in making this a successful event, which raised a net total of $68,500.
Huîtres en affaires at Complexe Desjardins
The Huîtres en affaires philanthropic culinary event was held yesterday at Complexe Desjardins and once again proved to be a tremendous success this year raising a record net amount of $155,729. Our heartfelt thanks to Guy Nadeau, Vice-President of Desjardins Business - Montreal, for selecting Portage as one of the three organizations to benefit from the proceeds.
« Exposition d’art : Tout en couleur », an art collective by Sylvie Dagenais
Artist Sylvie Dagenais held a fund-raising event entitled Exposition d’art : Tout en couleur on September 10th in Sainte-Adèle. Organized for the benefit of the Portage Foundation, the event welcomed some one hundred participants and four artists who generously donated part of the proceeds from the sale of their artworks.
We are pleased to announce that a net sum of $50,000 was raised for the construction of a youth’s wing at the Lac Écho Centre.
Exploring the Microscopic World
On July 18, adolescents and young adults at the Lac Écho Portage addiction rehabilitation program got a special visit from Eric Lécuyer, Head of the RNA Biology Research Unit at the Clinical Research Institute of Montreal (IRCM).
Mr. Lécuyer led the group in a scientific exploration activity, offering them a chance to dive into the fascinating world of microorganisms that surround us.
Donation from the Simple Plan Foundation for the music program
The Simple Plan Foundation held a press conference on November 22nd to announce the amounts donated to various organizations supporting at-risk youth, including the Portage Foundation.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the band members for their generous $20,000 donation, which will allow us to continue the music program—an enrichment activity vital to the therapeutic process for teenagers and young adults struggling with addiction. Thanks to the Simple Plan Foundation’s support over the past 15 years, we have been able to enhance our services by introducing an art therapy component to our residential centres in Lac Écho and Saint-Malachie.
Défi Sans Dépendance
During National Addictions Awareness Week, Malyka, a graduate of the adolescent and young adult program, completed a seven-day, 500-kilometer cycling journey. This initiative aimed to raise public awareness about addiction challenges and collect funds to support youth in recovery.
Thanks to her determination and the support of all contributors, $5,000 was raised. The funds collected through this challenge will help finance therapeutic, sports, and cultural activities, which are essential for helping youth develop healthy interests, build self-confidence, and maintain their sobriety.
DONORS HONOUR ROLL
Builders ($250 000 and more)
Ambassadors ($150 000 - $249 999)
Leaders ($50 000 - $149 999)
Air Canada
Banque Nationale
BMO Marchés des capitaux, Québec
CDPQ
Cogeco inc.
EY
Famille Chagnon
Fondation Famille Godin
Fondation Famille Le Blanc
Fondation J.A. DeSève
Fondation Lorraine et Jean Turmel
Fondation Paquin Thevenoz
Fondation Sandra et Alain Bouchard
Hydro-Québec
R. Howard Webster Foundation
Sun Life Québec
Partners ($25 000 - $49 999)
Agropur Coopérative
American Iron & Metal Inc.
Claridge inc.
Fednav Limited
Fiera Capital
Groupe Canam inc.
Groupe JAMP Pharma
iA Groupe financier
Kaufmann, Charles
Kröger, Britta et Simons, Peter
Olivier, François
Power Corporation du Canada
RBC Banque Royale
Soeurs de la Charité de Québec (Les)
TFI International
Valeurs mobilières TD inc.
Benefactors ($10 000 - $24 999)
Aéroports de Montréal
Alithya Canada
Azrieli Foundation (The)
Banque Scotia
BCE Inc. et Bell Canada
BCF s.e.n.c.r.l.
Beneva
Blakes
Bombardier
Bombardier, Janine
Boulangerie Chef Frankie inc.
Burnbrae Farms Limited
Cascades
Club Rotary de Québec-Charlesbourg
CN
Cogir Immobilier
Collectif Humanise
Del Rosario, Laurent
Deloitte
Denis, France et Royer, Raymond
Di Lillo Construction Ltée
Dubé, Geneviève
Edgenda
Énergie Valero inc.
Estridev
Exceldor Coopérative
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
Fasken
Fondation Alain Paquet
Fondation Énergie Valero du Canada
Fondation François Caron
Fondation Jacques et Michel Auger
Fondation Simple Plan
Fondation Suzanne et Jean-Robert Leclerc
Fondation Sylvie Nadeau et Michel Dallaire
Fondation Virginia Parker
Fonds de solidarité FTQ
Fonds Fondation Paul-A. Fournier - Fondation du Grand Montréal
Garaga inc.
George Hogg Family Foundation (The)
Gestion d'actifs Burgundy
Gestion Thap inc.
Gildan Activewear inc.
Global Payments Canada
Groupe Asselin Lévesque
Groupe Geloso
Groupe Gourmet Privilège
Groupe Novipro
Harden
Investissement Québec
John Patrick Colfer Family Foundation
Keurig Dr Pepper Canada
KPMG
La Presse
Marchés mondiaux CIBC inc.
McCarthy Tétrault
Miller Thomson
Molson Coors
Morency, Société d'avocats
Muller, Alix
Normandin Beaudry
Norton Rose Fulbright
Olymel
Paradis, Anne et Roy, André
Private Brands Consortium PBC Inc.
Produits Kruger inc.
Promutuel Assurance Côte-Sud
PwC Canada
R2i inc.
RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust
Rogers Communications Canada inc.
Sanimax
Saputo inc.
Solotech
Stingray Group Inc.
Succession Lysianne Le Dain
WSP Canada inc.
Collaborators ($5 000 - $9 999)
Behaviour Interactive inc.
Boies, Sylvain
Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo
Clinique de l'auto Higgins inc.
Club Med
Couture, Jean-François
Dagenais, Sylvie
Dell Technologies
Dynamark Management Corp.
Ellipse Assurances
Epic Games ArtStation Inc.
Epsylon Concept inc.
ESI Technologies inc.
Fairmont Le Reine Elizabeth
Fondation C'est beau la vie
Fondation Famille Lupien
Fondation Lise et Richard Fortin
Fondation Madeleine et Jean-Paul Tardif
Fondation Marie Christine Tremblay et Jacques Marchand
Fondation Mi Corazon
Fondation Sibylla Hesse
Fondation Suzanne et Claude Rouleau (La)
Fonds Distal inc.
Fonds Youkali
Groupe CH inc.
Groupe Cirque du Soleil (Le)
Groupe Norbec inc.
Hylcan Foundation (The)
Intact Assurance
Jarislowsky Fraser Limitée
Lefebvre, Gilles
Lemieux, Alexandre
Mallette
Marsh McLennan
Massicotte, Karina
McDonnell, Shaun
Ménard, Pierre-Yves
Mercer
Montreal Gazette
Noël, Martin
NovAxis Solutions inc.
Pierre Tardif inc.
Pomerleau inc.
Québecor inc.
Racine, Rémi
Rae, John
Vilder, Sébastien
Friends ($1 000 - $4 999)
AccèsConseil
Arboplus
Asselin, Julie
Association de la Construction du Québec - Région de Québec
Auberge Saint-Antoine
Augustines du Monastère Saint-Augustin (Les)
Baillie, J-Fraser
BCF Avocats d'affaires
BDC
Béland, Jean-Sébastien
Bene Design inc.
Beneva inc.
Bernard, Jean Philippe
Birks Family Foundation (The)
Bolduc, Enrico
Boulanger, Gérard
Boutique La Vie en Rose inc.
Bruneau, Marc
C2V Architecture
Cabinet de relations publiques NATIONAL inc. (Le)
Canderel Management Inc.
Choquette, Alexandra
CI Investments Inc.
Club de Golf Le Blainvillier
Club de Golf Royal Québec
Club Laval-sur-le-Lac (Le)
Conagra Brands
Congebec inc.
Construction Broccolini inc.
Construction Ricar inc.
Corporation financière Northbridge
Côté, Joël
Côté, Paul
Couceiro, Carlos
Dagenais, Denise
D'Amour, Martine
Delisle, Marie-France
Deltec Construction inc.
d'Eschambault, Roger
Desgagné, Yan
Desparois Coulombe, Lise
Diallo, Malyka
Doyon, J. Michel
DS Avocats Canada
Dupuis, François
EGR inc.
EgR Stratèges en assurance
Entourage sur-le-Lac Resort
Entreprises P.A. Électrique inc. (Les)
ExoTalent - Une division du Groupe Magellan
Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu
Fidelity Investments Canada ULC
Fiducie Jacqueline Lallemand
Fitness Nutrition Équipement
Fluet, Julie
Fondation Alexandre Tremblay et Caroline Ferland
Fondation de la Corporation des Concessionnaires d'automobiles de Montréal
Fondation Frontenac - Fonds Caritatif André Roy
Fondation Normand Brie
Fondation Poverello
Fonds Philanthropique Famille Denise-et-Alban-D'Amours
Galerie d'Art Cosner au Ritz-Carlton
Gamache, Robin
Gauthier, Carl
Gauthier, Jacques
Gendreau, Isabelle
Gespra
Gestion Ghislain Rhéaume inc.
Gestion K2Kapital inc.
Gestion privée Desjardins
Giguère, Laurent
Giguère, Sylvie
Groupe AGF inc.
Groupe CT inc.
Groupe Deschênes inc.
Groupe Farel inc.
Groupe Germain
Groupe IN-RGY Consultations inc.
Groupe Maurice (Le)
Groupe Systèmes Préfabriqués Intégrés inc.
Habitations Leblanc inc. (Les)
Harry Rosen
Hexarem inc.
Holt Renfrew Ogilvy
Hôtel Le Bristol Paris
Houle, Marie-Josée
Howlett, Peter A.
HUB International Québec limitée
ILS Pharma inc.
Impôt Étoile
Interpares inc.
Invesco Canada Ltd
Julien inc.
Knoche, Sophia et Nakhle, Ralph
Knowles, Jason
Laboratoire MAT inc.
Lacroix, Claude
Lallier, Éric
Lambert Somec
Lantic inc.
Laroche, Yvan
Larochelle, Jean-Pierre
Lavertu, Esther
Le Gal, Stéphane
Leahy, Brian Henry
Lefebvre, Geneviève
Lemieux, Claude
LJT Avocats
Location Park Avenue - Jim Pattison
Losier, Gilles
Mackenzie Investments
Maison Simons (La)
Manulife
Martel, Benoit
Martineau, Jayson
Mayrand, Richard
McKesson Canada
Modelo Modélisation 3D inc.
Mousseau, Robert
MSR Mécanique du Bâtiment et Plomberie
Œuvres Marie-Anne-Lavallée
Panavidéo inc.
Paquette, Joseph Roger
Parasuco Jeans Inc.
Patrice Brunet Avocats
Patrick Morin inc.
Perkins, Danny
Pros de la Photo (Québec) inc. (Les)
Pub Chez Pauline inc.
Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton
Reitman, Dorothy
Restaurant Helena
Rhéaume, Ghislain
Riddell, Lindsay
RM Recrutement International
Robitaille, Michel
Roland, Miriam
Sagi, Alain
Séminaire de Québec
SHL Québec
Simard, Michael G.
Soeurs de St-Joseph de St-Vallier
Soeurs du Bon Pasteur de Québec (Les)
Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg
Softchoice
Solutions Ited inc.
Sommet Groupe Financier
Spa St. James
St-Amour - une division du Groupe Magellan
St-Hilaire, Louis
Stikeman Elliott
StoneHaven Le Manoir
St-Pierre, Danielle
StratoExec - Une division du Groupe Magellan
Suppléments Aromatik inc.
Sythco inc.
Tablée des Chefs (La)
Tardif, Jean-Stuart
Taylor, Colette M.
Tenue de Soirée
Timberkids Charitable Foundation
TLA Architectes
Travaux de Peinture Cyr
Tremblay Bois Avocats
Valeurs mobilières Desjardins Garon-Fluet-Bissonnette-Rodrigue
Vézina Assurances inc.
VIA Rail Canada inc.
Vision Concept
Vroom, K. Ann
The Portage Foundation in Atlantic
Throughout the past year, the Portage Foundation in Atlantic Canada has played a key role in assisting young people on their path to rehabilitation and autonomy. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, partners and community leaders, we were able to initiate and sustain projects that go well beyond therapy to strengthen participants’ confidence, teach them new skills and increase their feeling of belonging.
Each project reflects the power of community engagement and each client testimonial shows what can be achieved when compassion leads to action. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helps support our mission.
Learning a Trade to Build a Future
Portage Atlantic has partnered with the New Brunswick government to offer the Youth Skilled Trades Exploration Program (STEP), which introduces youth to non-traditional trades. Through hands-on training, participants learn important technical skills while accumulating accredited hours that count toward an official apprenticeship.
Under the supervision of certified Red Seal instructors, participants train in a variety of trades, including electricity, plumbing, landscaping, carpentry and bricklaying. STEP is much more than a program; it’s a springboard toward autonomy and long-term success.
Growing Together: Your Community Garden
On June 13, 2024, Portage Atlantic celebrated the opening of the Your Community Garden project in Cassidy Lake—a vibrant space that symbolizes growth and community spirit. Eighteen generous donors were honoured at the event by adding a leaf with their name to our symbolic tree, alongside youth in treatment who helped create the garden.
In addition to enhancing the beauty of the existing site and trail, the garden project is an opportunity for donors to do volunteer work together with young people. The funds raised by the project go directly to Portage Atlantic programs, with a portion going to the maintenance and expansion of the garden.
Philanthropy in Action: Transforming Young People’s Lives
Portage Atlantic was honoured to be chosen as the recipient of the 2025 Philanthropy in Action Grant at an event celebrating outstanding philanthropic initiatives in the Fredericton community.
This generous grant was presented by the Fredericton Community Foundation on behalf of Brenda and David Sansom. Their generosity and their commitment to making a difference are deeply appreciated and will have a lasting impact on the youth we support.
We are deeply grateful to Brenda and David and to the Fredericton Community Foundation for their steadfast support and their confidence in our mission.
Recognition Ceremony: Honouring Courage and Perseverance
Every year, Portage Atlantic celebrates the strength and resilience of youth who have completed the residential phase of their therapy and of those who have maintained a healthy lifestyle for one year. The Recognition Ceremony is an important event, filled with emotion, pride and gratitude.
The guests of honour at this year’s ceremony included Dr. Russell King, former chair of the Portage Atlantic Board (2004–2024), Geneviève Lefebvre, president and CEO of Portage, and the honourable Brenda Murphy, former lieutenant governor of New Brunswick (2019–2025). Their presence highlighted the importance of community support in the rehabilitation process and community pride in the achievements of our youth.
Regional Board
The Atlantic Regional Board is established in New Brunswick and serves with such authority as is vested to it by the Board of Trustees. It addresses matters affecting the conduct of Portage business in its region and make recommendations to the Board of Trustees.
Dave Ferguson, Chair (2024-present); Dr. Russell King, Former Chair (2004-2024); Tammy Johnson; Fred Laforge; Erin Flood; Genevieve Lefebvre; John Maunder; Ron Murray; Dr. Rod Nolan; Bruce Northrup; Patricia Rogers; Zoe Watson; Dr. Frank Wilson; Brad Woodside.
Donors Honour Roll
Ambassadors ($150 000 - $249 999)
Mayflower Sharps’ of Sussex New Start Foundation Inc.
The Windsor Foundation
Leaders ($50 000 - $149 999)
Harrison McCain Foundation
Partners ($25 000 - $49 999)
The Sir James Dunn Foundation
Benefactors ($10 000 - $24 999)
New Brunswick Children's Foundation of the New Brunswick Protestant Orphans' Home
Collaborators ($5 000 - $9 999)
Douglas Prebble
Lockhart Foundation
Nashwaaksis Lions Club We Serve
The McCain Foundation
United Commercial Travelers of America - Jack Kidd Council #755
Friends ($1 000 - $4 999)
Anonymous Donor
Atlantic Police Association
Brennan Farms Ltd.
Cavendish Farms Corporation
Chief Mary Bernard Memorial Women's Shelter
David and Brenda Sansom Foundation
Fredericton Golden Club Inc.
Fredericton Lions Club
Holland Family Giving Fund
Irving Consumer Products Limited
Jean-Robert and Sylvie Bourgeois
John and Pam Clark
Kinsmen Club of the Miramichi Inc.
Lamont & Associates Ltd
Maple Leaf Homes Inc.
Michel Thebeau
Midland Transport Limited
Nackawic Lions Club Inc.
New Brunswick Masonic Charities & Housing Co. Ltd
New Brunswick Social Pediatrics
North Rustico Lions Club
Peter and Daphne McCarthy
Riverview Lions Club Inc.
Robert Black
Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception
Sobeys Inc.
Sophia Recovery Centre
St. Luke's Thrift Shop
The Louis and Roberta George Foundation
Ontario
Donors Honour Roll
Benefactors ($10 000 - $24 999)
The Christina Mary Hendrie Trust for Scottish and Canadian Charities
Collaborators ($5 000 - $9 999)
Co-operators
Friends ($1 000 - $4 999)
George Borovilos
Keating Technologies Inc. / NPC
Marlin and Marie Horst
Milu Fresh Rolls
Richard Van Dyke Insurance Group Inc.
For a sound and transparent governance
Since it was established in 1970, Portage has distinguished itself by its organizational discipline and its commitment to the community. The organization has continued to fulfil its mission, overcoming a great many obstacles thanks to the perseverance, competence, dedication and leadership of its management and staff.
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is composed of 25 members, including the Chairperson of the Ontario Board and the Chairperson of the Atlantic Canada Board. The members of the Board of Trustees are elected each year, for a one-year term, at the Annual General Meeting. The Board of Trustees, in accordance with the ByLaws of the Corporation, has the legal and fiduciary responsibility for the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation. The Board of Trustees exercises its responsibility with the assistance of the regional committees called Regional Boards and such other committees as it deems necessary.
- Geneviève Lefebvre
- Paul Côté
- Peter A. Howlett
- Rita Apa
- Jason Bélanger
- Sara Erskine
- David Ferguson
- Laurent Giguère
- Jane Howlett
- Matthew Linton
- Gurit Lotan
- Pierre-Yves Ménard
- André Roy
- Dorothy Reitman
- Georgia Tournas
- Ann Vroom
Board of Governors
The Portage Board of Governors is composed of up to 250 voting members, including up to 35 members from Ontario and 35 members from Atlantic Canada. Each year, a slate of Governors is nominated and appointed for a one-year term at the Annual General Meeting.
Board of governors
Peter Allison
Rita Apa
Fraser Baillie
Jason Belanger
André Bérard
Ron Black
Jules Bois
Yvan Boisvert, Adm.A. Pl. Fin.
Ted Callanan
John Carsley
Isabelle Chagnon
Nancy Cleman, Ad.E
Paul Côté
Georges Courteau
Jean Coutu, O.C., O.Q.
Mario Cusson, CPA CA, M.B.A.
Michel Dallaire
Denise D'Amours
Alban D'Amours, G.O.Q
Charles David, CA
Michel Décary, c.r., Ad. E.
Roger D'Eschambault
Luc Deschênes
Jean-Pierre Desrosiers
Ted Di Giorgio
Derek A. Drummond
Victor M. Drury
Michel Dubé
Claude Dubois
André Dumont
Dave Emmerson
Sara Erskine
Brian Evans
Ron Evans
Magdy Fahmy
David Ferguson
Erin Flood
Geoff Flood
Daniel Gagnier
Jean-Paul Galarneau
Clermont Gignac
Sylvie Giguère
Laurent Giguère, CA
Kateri-Anne Grenier
Maggie Hodgson
Heather Hooper
Richard Hooper
Jane Howlett
Michael Howlett
Peter A. Howlett, C.M.
Tammy Johnson
E. Pius Kaufmann
Russell King
Tricia L. Kuhl
Éric R. La Flèche
Claude Lacroix
Frederic Laforge
Benoit Lapointe
Yvan Laroche
Michel Lavigne
Hélène Leduc
Jacques Lefebvre
Marc Lefrançois
Richard Legault, CPA, CA, CFA
George Francis Lengvari
Matthew R. Linton
Gurit Lotan
Richard Lupien
John Macdonell
John MacFarlane
Marian MacFarlane
Geneviève Marcotte
Nelson Martin
John Maunder
Richard Mayrand
Maurice McGregor
Pierre-Yves Ménard
Gary Mintz
Kimberly Miousse
Réal Moffet, MBA, FCA
Ronald Murray
Guy Nadeau
Sylvie Nadeau
Ernest Nagy
Roderick C. Nolan, P. Eng.
Carmand Normand
Francois Olivier
Érik Péladeau
Louis Pilon
Hervé Pomerleau
Marie-France Poulin
Richard W. Pound, C.C., O.Q., c.r., F.C.P.A.
Evan Price
Martha Price
André Provencher
Jackie Ranahan
Robert J. Ransford
Dorothy Reitman, C.M.
Richard J. Renaud, FCA
Robert J. Ritchie
Émile Robichaud
Patricia Rogers
Miriam Roland, M.A., C.C.C.
Claude Rouleau
Lyne Rouleau
Michel Rouleau
René Rouleau
Louise Rousseau
André Roy
Raymond Royer
Robert Ruttan
Susan Ruttan
Roberta Scarrow
Louis St-Hilaire
Jean St-Jacques
Donat J. Taddeo
Jacques Tanguay
Cathy Thomas
Edward Thomas
Michelle Tisseyre
Patrick Tobin
Georgia Tournas
Carl Tremblay
Luc Villeneuve, FCPA, FCA
Ann Vroom
Peter W. Webster, LL.D (Hon)
Frank Wilson
Brad Woodside
Zoe Watson
Standing Committees
Portage has several standing committees that support its executive management in the achievement of its strategic objectives. The committees consist of trustees and members of the Board of Governors.
Communications and
Government Relations Committee
Chairperson : Ann Vroom
Finance Committee
Chairperson : Jason Bélanger
Governance Committee
Chairperson : Dave Fergusson
Program and Vigilance Committee
Chairperson : Jane Howlett
Properties, Environment
and Energy Committee
Chairperson : John MacDonnell
Human Resources Committee
Chairperson : Rita Apa
Financial statements March 31, 2025
Thank you.
As we turn the page on another year of challenges, transitions and important achievements, we want to express our deep gratitude to all those who help make our mission possible. Thanks to the unwavering commitment of our donors, partners, governance board, employees and governments, Portage continues to provide vital services to thousands of youth and adults across the country.
With your support, we are building a healthier, more resilient and more compassionate future. Together, we have inaugurated new facilities, strengthened our presence in various communities and maintained our commitment to program excellence and innovation.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or comments. We will be happy to reply.
Thank you for supporting us.
Thank you for believing in our mission.
And most of all, thank you for making a difference.
