Fondation Desjardins Launches Call for Candidates for 33rd Desjardins Annual Prizes
Montréal, April 11, 2008 - Fondation Desjardins invites organizations involved in social, economic and community development to send in their applications for the 33rd edition of the Desjardins Annual Prizes.
Six prizes of $5,000 each will be awarded to social and community organizations that are members of Desjardins caisses in Québec, caisses/branches in Ontario or caisses populaires in New Brunswick or Manitoba.
The prizes will be awarded in the following categories: senior citizen assistance, youth assistance, community development, cultural development, community economic development and sustainable development. Applications must be sent to Fondation Desjardins by June 20, 2008.
Over the past few years, in recognition of the values of mutual assistance and solidarity demonstrated by people involved in their community, Fondation Desjardins has awarded $860,000 to 151 organizations.
Prize for young officers at Desjardins
Fondation Desjardins also wishes to show greater appreciation for the work of volunteers, in awarding its second Prix Reconnaissance Jeunes dirigeants Desjardins. The purpose of this prize is to underline the contribution made to Desjardins Group by young elected officers and young intern officers between the ages of 18 and 35. Applications for the prize will be accepted until June 15, 2008.
About Fondation Desjardins
As a component of Desjardins Group, the largest integrated cooperative financial group in Canada, Fondation Desjardins fulfils its mission to provide educational support by distributing university scholarships and bursaries throughout Québec and Ontario for training, skills development and cooperative spirit. The foundation also hands out awards in recognition of volunteer activities and to support entrepreneurship and employment. In 2008, Fondation Desjardins will distribute more than $700,000. In Québec, it is well known for distributing more university scholarships than any other private foundation in the province. Since its inception, the foundation has given away more of $10 million dollars to support over 8,700 young people.
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Nathalie Genest
Information and Press Relations
Desjardins Group
514-281-7275
1-866-866-7000, ext. 7275
Éliane Didier
Fondation Desjardins
514-281-7170
1-800-443-8611
