Terrebonne, Quebec, Wednesday, May 13, 2015

It’s a pleasure to join you here to celebrate what you do and to recognize the people who make it all possible.

What’s more, I’m delighted to learn about an organization that embodies three of my top priorities as governor general: volunteerism, education and children.

Together, you have donated over $6 million worth of school supplies and clothing to more than 14 000 children. You reach more than 2 000 schools at the elementary and secondary levels.

Yet, your contributions go beyond what can be measured.

The true impact of your generosity is personal. Your actions are changing not only how our children are being educated, but also how they think about their education.

You are giving them the self-confidence to succeed, to take charge of their own lives, to make their learning work for them and their situation.

You are giving these children hope for the future and providing the tools they’ll need to learn and to contribute great things to Canada.

Here at Fondation maman Dion, you are making a difference.

The people behind this foundation are truly exceptional.

That’s why I’m proud to present the Caring Canadian Award to many unsung heroes in this community. Behind all the good that has been done are the volunteers and supporters who work tirelessly to make it happen. I’m pleased to have this chance to shine a light on your efforts, to add your stories to those of the other generous Canadians I’ve met.

Of course, in speaking about this organization’s success, we cannot forget Maman Dion herself. Thérèse Tanguay Dion is dedicated to the children of this province. Without her vision and efforts, none of this would have happened.

She saw the need and took steps to provide a solution. She found what I like to call her “giving moment,” and in doing so, she allowed so many others to discover their own giving moments as well. 

To the founder of this foundation, I think it only fitting that we present a very special honour: the Meritorious Service Medal.

Madame Dion, you have set an example for so many to follow, one that so many have followed.

I thank you. And to everyone here today, I offer my heartfelt gratitude for all that you are doing, and will continue to do, for our children and our country. You are not only sources of inspiration for all of us, you are also truly caring Canadians in every sense.

Thank you.