20th Canadian Red Cross Annual Fundraising Event at New City Gas
On Thursday, March 20, Montreal’s New City Gas cultural complex transformed into a beacon of hope and solidarity as the Canadian Red Cross hosted its 20th Annual Fundraising Event, marking a milestone in its ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Themed “A Journey of Unity and Resilience,” the evening highlighted two decades of collective action to support those affected by emergencies across Canada and around the world. The gala brought together community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters for a memorable night filled with inspiration and generosity.
The stunning venue, nestled in Montreal’s vibrant Griffintown neighborhood, set the stage for a celebration of resilience and unity.
Co-chaired by three prominent figures—Marie-Claude Boisvert, Partner and Head of Sagard Private Equity Canada; Olivier Lemire, President of Keurig Dr Pepper Canada; and Jean-François Séguin, Managing Director at BMO Capital Markets—this year’s event demonstrated the powerful leadership that drives the Red Cross’ mission forward.
Their combined efforts helped raise a remarkable $746,075, all of which will support the Red Cross’ initiatives, from volunteer training to emergency response and recovery efforts.
The evening unfolded with an elegant cocktail hour, allowing guests to network and enjoy light canapés inspired by regions that have benefited from Red Cross aid, such as Mexico, Thailand, and Indonesia. These culinary offerings, paired with fine wines and mocktails, offered a sensory journey of their own, reflecting the diverse regions and cultures the Red Cross has impacted.
As guests settled into the banquet hall, the evening’s atmosphere deepened, with a three-course dinner designed to reflect the global scope of the Red Cross’ humanitarian work. The menu was thoughtfully curated to honor countries that have faced severe crises over the past two decades.
Highlights included Prince Edward Island braised beef, which paid tribute to Australia’s 2020 wildfires, and a vegetarian dish inspired by the Levant and Oriental cuisines, representing the region’s ongoing challenges. The symbolic dishes, coupled with wines from Italy, Chile, and Quebec, created a unique culinary experience while fostering a deeper connection to the causes being supported.
Throughout the evening, the program was punctuated by moving speeches and testimonies from Red Cross leaders. Conrad Sauvé, President and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross, shared a heartfelt message about the ongoing importance of solidarity in today’s complex world, where emergencies are becoming more frequent and multifaceted. Pascal Mathieu, Vice President of Quebec, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the vital role of community partnerships in addressing these growing challenges.
The event also recognized the tireless work of the 14,000+ volunteers and 2,900+ staff members who form the backbone of the organization. A special thank you was extended to the Red Cross’ key partners, including Canada Life, Desjardins, Power Corporation of Canada, ABB, and The Globe and Mail, who continue to support the organization’s mission and vision. Their commitment ensures that the Red Cross can continue to provide critical services, not only within Canada but also on the global stage.
As the night drew to a close, the festive ambiance continued with live performances and a lounge atmosphere, encouraging attendees to connect and reflect on the evening’s successes.
The event was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a reminder of the essential work that remains ahead. The spirit of “unity and resilience” was ever-present, as guests were reminded of the ongoing need for their support in the face of global crises.
This year’s gala, with its blend of celebration, reflection, and action, was a resounding success. As the Red Cross prepares for the challenges ahead, it’s clear that the organization’s mission will continue to thrive, thanks to the unwavering generosity of individuals and organizations alike. The 20th Annual Fundraising Event was a powerful reminder that, together, we can make a lasting impact in times of need. The journey of unity and resilience, it seems, is just beginning.
Red Cross Links
Facebook: @CroixRougeQuebec
Instagram: @redcrosscanada
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/croix-rouge-canadienne
Website: redcross.ca
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