In this month of October, Quebec lost a giant in the person of André Chagnon. The testimonies of admiration poured in, quick and sincere. The spontaneity of unanimous and heartfelt tributes was followed by the desire to take up the pen. After his entrepreneurial qualities have been discussed in these pages, it is the greatness of his philanthropic legacy that lives and inspires us.
Posted at 1:00 p.m.
Belonging to three different generations, we have in common this need and this desire to show our gratitude. Wisdom pays homage to the exemplary nature of the gesture, to the quality of the work and to its guaranteed durability. Young people name the thirst for solidarity and equity between generations and the call to leave a better world to those who follow us, aspirations to which Mr. Chagnon’s legacy responds.
Between the two, it remains to name integrity and rigor as well as benevolence and trust, qualities that have raised our philanthropic standards and that will long guide all his heirs, everywhere in Quebec. Few men and women of the caliber of Lucie and André Chagnon are capable of so much renunciation to build a body of work that surpasses them.
Coaching family, partners, philanthropists and community allies, Mr. Chagnon has chosen to devote himself like no other to breaking the cycle of poverty.
With acuity and depth, he was able to both defend the importance of strong public policies and demonstrate the greatness and nobility of philanthropy. With humility and extreme generosity, he gave resources and spokespersons to those who had expertise and conviction.
By creating the Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation, he positioned like no one before him the importance of prevention, which leads to early action to reduce inequalities and promote the development of the full potential of all children.
By creating Québec en Forme, Avenir d’enfants and Réunir Succeed, he legitimized and supported the crucial role played by communities in the health, development and educational success of young people.
Knowing how to both learn and surround himself well, he ensures through the Foundation that bears his name the pursuit of a dream nourished by the multitude.
There are so many eloquent examples of organizations transformed by Mr. Chagnon’s vision. The Olo Foundation is one of them. The momentum provided by the support of Avenir d’enfants has made it possible to achieve the ambition of being present in the first 1000 days of life, bringing health and equity to thousands of babies. From project to lasting impact, the support of the Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation continues. From our actions, it feeds the depth, the clarity, the linkages and the scope.
Today, a whole constellation of partners is dedicated to equal opportunities, the prevention and the fight against poverty. The Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation is its beacon and Mr. Chagnon is a shining and eternal star.
Thank you, Mr. André Chagnon.