Joliette Celebrates Hometown Heroes at 2025 Volunteer Gala
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joliette, Quebec, recently shone a spotlight on its unsung heroes at the
Volunteer Action gala, held April 30th at the Desjardins Cultural Center.
The event, drawing over 500 residents, local officials, and organization
members, was a testament too the power of community engagement in the
region. Think of it as Joliette’s version of the ESPYs, but rather of
celebrating athletic prowess, it honored selfless service.
attendees were treated to a special performance by the pop a cappella group
Qwartz, adding a celebratory vibe to the evening. It was a small token of
appreciation for the immense contributions of thes volunteers.
These devoted and altruistic Joliettans are the heart and soul of our
regional city. by their selflessness and generosity, they inspire and
transform lives. Let us express all our gratitude and our
gratitude,
exclaimed Mayor Pierre-Luc Bellerose, highlighting the profound impact of
volunteerism.
Sports and Outdoor Advancement Award – Perseverance Basketball
Association
Founded in 2022, the Perseverance Basketball Association is making waves by
providing a positive and competitive environment for young athletes. By
2024, the association boasted 130 athletes, including 90 girls aged 8-17,
supported by seven dedicated volunteers. Their efforts have led to the
recruitment of qualified coaches, team expansion, and the organization of
various events, including tournaments and specialized development camps.
this mirrors the growth of youth basketball programs across the U.S., where
volunteer coaches and organizers are the backbone of the sport.
Daniel Gérard Paul, President
Yannick bilodeau, Public Relations Manager and Partnerships
Mathieu Lacourcière, Manager of Basketball Operations
Mathieu Joyal, Head of Management and Event Planning
Valérie Grégoire, Support for Activities
Marie-Hélène Pagé, Support for Activities
Kim provencher, Social media Manager
Social Development Prize – Mark Elkes
Described as a true leader, Mark Elkes dedicates his time and energy to
creating enjoyable and inclusive experiences for his community. Last year,
he established the community activities group at Park Lajoie, organizing
over 30 events, including karaoke nights, board game sessions, soccer
games, and broomball. Elkes embodies the spirit of community organizers who
transform local parks into vibrant hubs of activity, much like the dedicated
individuals behind neighborhood sports leagues in cities across America.
Cultural Development Prize – Pierre Lafrance
Since retiring in 2010, Pierre Lafrance has enriched La Maison des
Grandparents du Grand Joliette by sharing children’s stories and organizing
cultural events, including a Playmobil exhibition that attracted 1100
visitors. He also leads intergenerational philosophy sessions and facilitates
exchanges between students and inmates at the Ptyette Penitentiary. Lafrance’s
commitment to community events has strengthened ties between local
organizations. His work is reminiscent of the impact of dedicated museum
volunteers and after-school program leaders who foster a love of learning
and community engagement.
Elder in Motion award – Yvan Goulet
Approaching 80 years old, Yvan Goulet is a pillar of the Roland annex,
which he has chaired since 2017. A trained social worker, he supports
employability and social catering, redistributing hundreds of meals
annually.Faithful and committed, he supports the director and participants
of the Exp’or project and dedicates himself to the Christmas market, where
he prepares large quantities of treats. Goulet’s dedication mirrors the
countless senior volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to
community organizations, food banks, and mentorship programs, proving that
age is no barrier to making a difference.
The city of Joliette extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the award
recipients and expresses its gratitude to all volunteers for their invaluable
contributions to the region’s vitality.
Key volunteer Contributions in joliette: A Summary
The annual Joliette Volunteer Gala not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the critical role volunteerism plays in bolstering the cityS social fabric. Volunteer efforts span a broad spectrum, contributing to youth growth, social inclusion, cultural enrichment, and support for senior citizens. These acts of service underscore the power of community and the important impacts of altruistic endeavors.
To illustrate the diverse impact of the award recipients, let’s examine some key data points:
| Award Category | Recipient | Key Contributions | Impact Demonstrated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports and Outdoor Advancement | Perseverance Basketball Association |
Established in 2022, providing a positive environment for young athletes. Over 130 athletes, including 90 girls between 8-17, supported by seven volunteers. Organized events, tournaments and development camps. |
Fostering youth development, promoting physical activity, expanding community engagement within the city. |
| social Development | Mark Elkes |
Organized over 30 community events in Park Lajoie, including karaoke nights, board games, soccer, and broomball, creating inclusive and fun experiences for the community. |
Strengthening community bonds, enhancing social interaction, and transforming local parks into hubs for Joliette residents. |
| Cultural Development | Pierre Lafrance |
Shares children’s stories and organizes cultural events at La Maison des Grandparents du Grand Joliette, including a Playmobil exhibition with 1,100 visitors as retiring in 2010. He leads intergenerational philosophy sessions between students and inmates. |
Promoting intergenerational dialog, enriching cultural life, and fostering an appreciation for learning and community engagement within the region. |
| Elder in Motion | Yvan Goulet |
Chairs the Roland annex since 2017. Supports employability, social catering (redistributing hundreds of meals). Involved in Christmas market with food readiness. |
Providing essential social services, supporting vulnerable populations, and promoting independence and well-being of senior citizens. |
The data underscores the vital impact of these individuals and groups on
the Joliette community. Their efforts demonstrate that with dedication,
volunteer work can drive positive change across different demographics and
sectors. Their altruistic work has proven that volunteerism remains a
cornerstone of the overall health, well-being, and prosperity of Joliette.
Joliette Volunteer Gala: Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)
What is the Joliette Volunteer Gala?
The Joliette Volunteer Gala is an annual event held in Joliette, Quebec,
designed to recognize and celebrate the contributions of dedicated
volunteers who substantially impact the local community.
Who was honored at the 2025 Gala?
The 2025 Gala celebrated the volunteer activities of the Perseverance
Basketball association, Mark Elkes, Pierre Lafrance, and Yvan Goulet. They
were recognized for their exceptional work in sports and outdoor
advancement, social development, cultural enrichment, and elder support.
How can I volunteer in joliette?
If you are interested in volunteering, there are several ways to get
involved.You can contact local community centers,non-profit
organizations,and various municipal entities that often rely on the
support of volunteers. Also, visit the Joliette city hall website and
search for volunteer opportunities tailored to individual interests.
What impact does volunteerism have on the community?
Volunteerism strengthens community bonds, provides essential services,
fosters a sense of belonging, and creates opportunities for personal growth.
volunteers contribute not only to the community, but by enhancing its social
and civic capacity by building bridges and partnerships across
demographics.
How is the Gala funded?
The funding for the Joliette volunteer gala comes from various sources,
including municipal funding,corporate sponsorships,and donations from
local businesses and residents.
What categories are volunteers awarded in?
Award categories vary each year, but they generally cover a wide range of
fields, including sports, artistic and cultural development, community
services, and advancements for seniors.
How are volunteers selected for recognition?
Volunteers are often nominated by their peers, community members, and
organizations. A selection committee reviews the nominations, assessing
the impact and contribution of the nominees.
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