Soirée des Grands Philanthropes: An Outstanding Success

The 19^th edition of Soirée des Grands Philanthropes was held at Windsor Station’s Salle des pas perdus on Thursday, September 29^th. This year, Portage paid tribute to an exceptional man, Mr. Lino A. Saputo, Chair of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of Saputo Inc. The partners’ outstanding generosity made it possible for Portage to raise $1,250,000 net. A tremendous success year after year. 

The evening’s concept was redesigned over the past two years due to the health situation, to allow attendees to safely enjoy a pleasant evening whilst continuing to support the Portage cause. And so, through the Portage Foundation team’s resilience and creativity, and together with its loyal partners, guests compassionately and generously participated from the comfort of their homes.

This year, Soirée des Grands Philanthropes resumed its traditional formula, welcoming 620 guests in person at Salle des pas perdus in Montreal, in a warm and elegant setting. Chefs from the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth prepared a gourmet dinner much appreciated by the guests. A new concept was introduced this year as 70 partners from the Quebec City area took part in the event’s live broadcast at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac’s Salon Jacques Cartier.

A young woman soon graduating from the program at Portage’s Lac Echo rehabilitation centre, shared her story which truly moved attendees. Her compelling testimonial helped guests better understand the courage needed to overcome drug addiction. Her mother’s pride towards her daughter was also very touching. This is often heard at Portage: “Only you can do it, but you cannot do it alone.” This saying took on its full meaning during the evening where the adolescent found a caring and attentive audience filled with empathy for her story.

This event helped raise $1,250,000 net, including $60,000 for the interactive auction. This success is due to the outpouring of solidarity from attendees of the Montreal and Quebec City areas, who generously accepted the invitation. The funds raised make it possible each year to help addicts, their families and loved ones, get their lives back on track.

The Portage family would like to thank the Co-Chairs of the event: Laurent Ferreira and François Olivier, as well as members of the Honorary Committee: André Chagnon, Louis Audet, Grégoire Baillargeon, Alain Bouchard, Guy Cormier, Robert Dumas, Marcel Dutil, Peter A. Howlett, Benoit Lacoste-Bienvenue, Alain Lemaire, Tony Meti, Frank Pradella, John A. Rae, Gérardo and Vincenzo Rubino, as well as Colette Taylor.