Together For Our Children s Future

Transcription

1 Together For Our Children s Future ANNUAL REPORT 2012

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3 MANAGEMENT S LETTER It is too often perceived that child poverty affects people our four annual activities: the Easter Party, the Summer of far away countries or of the Third World. However, right Camps, the Ecological and Prevention Day and the here in Canada, too many children are left to themselves Christmas Show, to which more than 1,700 young people in poverty. Therefore when it affects our children, we must participated in These activities enable underprivileged fight this scourge. children to see the light at the end of the tunnel by offering them quality time while being the main actors. This is why CHILDREN NOW continues its mission in collaboration with several partners and experts to improve the lives of children who have no voice in the political arena. family issues to offer solutions to eradicate child poverty We give a chance to underprivileged children to be heard by close to us and find more solutions. the decision makers. our generous and loyal partners, sponsors, donors and Through various educational programs, we wish to help Our expert advisory committee continues to address All these actions are possible with the support of our young people so they may have the necessary tools to volunteers. The year 2012 was no exception as our allies become responsible citizens and therefore look forward were again present to help us achieve our mission and to a promising future. We continue to work with schools gave us their support in this cause that means a lot to us: by providing them with various educational tools. Thus, underprivileged children. throughout the year, we established different partnerships in order to distribute the following works : Youth and Street Directors and our employees for their ongoing efforts to Gangs, GPS Guide for the Pathway to Success... in High improve the well-being of families. With professionalism School, Youth and the Tools to Succeed to encourage youth and conviction, they were able to achieve the desired to stay in school, Youth and Road Safety to encourage objectives and thus bring a little sunshine into the life of youth to be responsible when driving and Soccer Plus to underprivileged children. Finally, we would also like to thank our Board of encourage youth to play sports. Moreover, in 2012 thanks to CHILDREN NOW, our free listening service helped several distressed family members Ricaardoe Di Done, General Manager Nick Waldteufel, President of the Board of Directors to get answers to their questions. Finally, we continue CHILDREN NOW i

4 CHARITY FAMILY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE CONSULTATIO N HELP ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHILDREN PARTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMILY SOCIETY AS SISTANCE CONSULTATION HELP ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHILDREN PARTNERSHIP CHA RITY FAMILY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE CONSULTATION HEL P ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHIL DREN PARTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMILY SOCIETY ASSIST ANCE CONSULTATION HELP ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PR OGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHILDREN PARTNERSHIP CHARIT Y FAMILY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE CONSULTATION HELP A DVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHILDRE N PARTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMILY SOCIETY ASSISTANC E CONSULTATION HELP ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGR AMS ACTIVITIES CHILDREN PARTNERSHIP CHARITY FA MILY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE CONSULTATION HELP ADVI CE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHILDREN P ARTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMILY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE C ONSULTATION HELP ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM S ACTIVITIES CHILDREN PARTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMI LY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE CONSULTATION HELP ADVIC E EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ACTIVITIES CHILDREN PA RTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMILY SOCIETY ASSISTANCE CO NSULTATION HELP ADVICE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS A CTIVITIES CHILDREN PARTNERSHIP CHARITY FAMILY SO

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Our Mission and Initiatives 3 Did You Know That 4 Help Line and Advice Services 6 Regional Activities 8 Educational Tools 10 Activities for Children 15 Youth Program 16 Different Ways to Contribute 18 Financial Summary 19 Our Sponsors and Donors 26 Description of Our Logo 26 Board of Directors 27 Testimonials 30 Press Review

6 OUR MISSION AND INITIATIVES By continuing to join forces and with perseverance, we will improve the well-being of children who are most at risk in our society and our planet. CHILDREN NOW is a registered charitable organization whose goal is to advance the cause of the family in our society by looking at a number of phenomena including divorce, poverty, delinquency, school drop-outs, violence linked to street gangs, environment, health and family mediation, to name a few. Our objective is to improve the state of the family by educating the public in offering seminars and workshops on themes related to the well-being of children and the family with family and community experts. CHILDREN NOW offers children and young people in difficulty, as well as everyone in the family in distress, the necessary assistance and resources to overcome barriers specific to their own situation through a free telephone helpline. We help to solve all kinds of problems in an attempt to prevent their consequences: drug addiction, alcoholism, psychological or physical disorders, domestic violence, separation, divorce, legal rights and obligations, suicide, and many others. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN CHILDREN NOW has developed an educational and preventive program which can be used by children in elementary and high schools. The program was developed to encourage teachers and parents to educate children on all matters related to street gangs, including bullying and other forms of violence experienced by today s youth. This initiative involves a partnership program that gives citizens the opportunity to sponsor individual classes or entire schools. We also organize annual recurring activities for underprivileged children as they seldom have the opportunity to participate in cultural activities that have a positive influence on their social, emotional and psychological development. Those activities provide multiple benefits for poor children and allow them to foresee a brighter future: reduction of stress and anxiety, development of self-esteem and social skills, increased creativity and academic performance and ease of interaction with peers. The activities allow children to enjoy the happiness provided on a short-term basis and also to enjoy their long-term benefits. These activities are: an Easter Party for the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten children, the Christmas Show for the children of grades 1, 2 and 3, the Ecological and Prevention Day for the 4 th graders, and finally, the Summer Camps for the 5 th and 6 th grade children. 2 CHILDREN NOW

7 DID YOU KNOW THAT... FACTS AND FIGURES ON IMPOVERISHED CHILDREN IN CANADA Canada s child poverty rate is higher than Canada s Canada is last in per-child funding for early education overall national poverty rate. among similar countries. When examining the percentage of children living in poverty, Canada is again in the bottom third with 14% (Campaign 2000 Report Card on Child and Family Poverty in Ontario 2012) of children living in poverty, ranking Canada 24 th of 35 countries. Canada also lacks an official definition of poverty, making it difficult to understand the severity of the situation, monitor the well-being of children and guide effective investments. On average in Canada, 1 in 6 children are victims of inherited poverty with those numbers increasing to 1 in 4 for children in First Nations and Inuit communities. Every month in Canada, 700,000 people rely on food (UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre (2012), Measuring Child Poverty: New league tables of child poverty in the world s banks, with 40% of these folks being children. (The Children s Aid Society, December 2012) rich countries, Innocenti Report Card 10, UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre, Florence) A Conference Board of Canada report says Canada s Child poverty impairs our long-term national interests because it leads to higher healthcare costs, spending on social support services, lost productivity and limited social fabric is being torn by rising income inequality and stagnant child poverty rates. (Canadian Press, February 4 th, 2013) opportunities. Child poverty also compromises too many people s dignity, mental health and well-being. With more children living in poverty today than in 1989, the case for federal action to end child poverty is clear. Most recent statistics indicate that 979,000 or 14.5% of children in Canada live in poverty as of 2010, compared to 912,000 or 13.7% in (2012 Campaign 2000 Report Card on Child and Family Poverty in Canada) CHILDREN NOW 3

8 HELP LINE AND ADVICE SERVICES LISTENING TO THE POPULATION Many individuals in distress due to the break up of their family unit or other situations dealing with family matters, turned to CHILDREN NOW for advice in EXAMPLES OF ACTUAL CASES IN 2012 FACTS: Mrs. D. was legally divorced in 2010 and she has custody of her 14-year-old daughter, S. Mrs. D. receives child support for her daughter from the father who has visitation rights once every second weekend and one Wednesday evening. S. is presently undergoing some orthodontic treatments because according to the orthodontist, S. does not have enough space for the teeth that are growing and if she does not continue the treatments, she will have to have some teeth removed in the future. The father refuses to contribute to the orthodontic costs since he considers that they are not necessary. QUESTION: Is the father obliged to contribute to the orthodontic treatments of his daughter? ANSWER: There are nine basic needs that are covered by child support. These include: food, housing, communications, housekeeping, personal care, clothing, furniture, transportation and recreation. Orthodontic care is considered special cost as it is not covered by the basic parental contribution and must be paid in proportion to the income of the parents. According to case law, the request for reimbursement by one individual must be supported by documentary evidence relevant to the nature of the treatment and the costs involved. If treatment is not purely aesthetic but therapeutic and the parents or their insurer can pay for it, they will be awarded as special expenses. Since this is a medical treatment, the bar should be less high on the reasonableness of the expense. In Mrs. D s case, the treatments for S. seem to be curative and therefore necessary from a medical standpoint. The father will therefore be obliged to contribute to the orthodontic treatments in proportion to his income once he receives the necessary documents related to nature of the treatment and the cost. 4 CHILDREN NOW

9 SOME OF THE PROBLEMS CHILDREN NOW RECEIVED QUESTIONS ABOUT IN 2012 INCLUDED: teenage pregnancy, visitation rights, separation of common-law couples, divorce, division of property, domestic violence, mental health problems of a parent, family mediation, support payments, child custody, respect of children s will, special expenses for children, intervention by Youth Protection Services and parental alienation. FACTS: : Mrs. C. will soon be separated from her common law spouse with whom she has two children who are 3 and 5 years old. The couple is discussing a shared custody arrangement and would like to go to family mediation. Mrs. C. is wondering whether one or the other parent has more rights concerning the children. QUESTION: What procedure should the couple follow? ANSWER: One of our organization s main objectives is to encourage family mediation in situations such as the one experienced by Mrs. C. In Quebec, a law adopted in 1997 offers parents the possibility of receiving free services from an accredited mediator to negotiate and settle custody and child support, as well as the division of property. Family mediation provides numerous advantages. For example, it encourages cooperation and compromise and, consequently, a greater respect for the reached agreements because of the parties active participation in the process. Long-term benefits include a decrease in judicial proceedings, as well as a reduction of the stress felt by the entire family. Family mediation facilitates the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Its strong point relies upon the fact that the conflicting parties are directly involved in the settlement process. Hence, the individuals do not experience the unpleasant feeling of having to submit to a judgment rendered by a third party and this, not in the interest of a single individual, but of all the individuals concerned by the problem. As a result, all parties derive a greater satisfaction, instead of being left with an impression of loss. The mediator, by discouraging conflict, gives center stage to the actual issues. Family problems must be approached from a more humane viewpoint, by worrying about the well-being of children and by not losing sight of this aspect throughout the duration of the mediation. Furthermore, the atmosphere of cooperation that emerges from the process will be beneficial when the time comes to review the terms of the agreement, following a change in the circumstances involving the parties. In the case of Mrs. C., if mediation is successful and the couple agrees on the custody arrangement as well as the amount of child support and, if applicable, the division of property, the mediator will prepare a summary of the agreement. An agreement project will then be drafted and judicial procedures will be prepared so it can be accepted by the court. Mrs. C. and her spouse need to contact a certified family mediator in order to begin the mediation process and solve their family situation. They can contact the Association de médiation familiale du Québec, the Barreau du Québec, the Chambre des notaires du Québec, the Association des psychologues du Québec, the Ordre professionnel des travailleurs sociaux, the Ordre des conseillers et des conseillères d orientation du Québec, or the Ordre des psychoéducateurs et des psychoéducatrices du Québec. Regarding the issue of Mrs. C. as to whether one or the other parent has more rights, the primary criterion when establishing child custody is the best interest of children. The court recognizes that a child needs both parents and the law does not favor one parent over the other. The judge will take several elements into consideration in order to determine custody: the age of the child; the needs of the child; the ability of each parent to meet the child s needs; the relationship between the child and each parent; the relationship between the child and the other family members; the stability of the child; the physical and mental health of the child; the physical and mental health of the parent who requests custody; the availability of each parent; the lifestyle of the parents, if it directly affects the child; the situation of brothers and sisters to avoid separation; the willingness of the parents that the child maintains a relationship with the other parent; the child s opinion. CHILDREN NOW 5

10 REGIONAL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONALE FRANCOPHONE DES INTERVENANTS AUPRÈS DES FAMILLES SÉPARÉES (AIFI) STUDY DAY MAY 9 TH, 2012 The theme for the day was Enfant roi enfant proie : comment prendre en compte les besoins et les droits de l enfant de parents séparés? (Child King Child Prey: How to Take into Account the Needs and Rights of Children Whose Parents Are Separated?) This question was answered by a psychologist, jurists, and a sociologist. Paule Lamontagne, clinical psychologist, explained the mandate of the expert psychologist in cases of separation and divorce. Simply put, the role of expert psychologists is to inform the court and fournir un éclairage qui n est pas nécessairement disponible ou évident, apporter des informations, pas seulement sur le désir de l enfant, mais aussi sur l origine de ce désir, sur la signification de cette parole, sur son émergence et son intégration dans le vécu de la famille (provide a clarification that is not necessarily available or obvious, provide information, not only on the desire of the child, but also on the origin of this desire, the meaning of this word, on the child s emergence and integration into the daily family life our translation) In addition, the expert will make comments regarding the parenting capacity of the parents. According to Ms. Lamontagne, we must make a distinction between the desire of the child, what the child is saying and the interest of the child. She also reviewed the various stages of an expertise and helped us understand how the word spoken by a young person can hide things that an expertise report can highlight. The jurists at the one-day conference provided information on the examination/ interrogation of the child and the role of the child s lawyer in the era of family conflicts. A judge of the Superior Court explained the role of the judge when he/ she meets and questions a child. Article 34 of the Civil Code of Québec provides an opportunity for the child to be heard if his age and power of discernment permit. The opinion of a child between 8 and 12 years will be strongly considered while the opinion of a child over 12 years old is largely determinative. Judges and lawyers try to protect the child and are reluctant to engage children in the judicial process for fear of traumatizing them more than they already are. Obviously, when there is an interrogation, this must be carefully prepared and conducted with sensitivity for the exercise to be successful while being the least disturbing possible for the child. The judge explains to the child that it is he/she who decides and that the child s testimony is simply something that will help the judge make a decision. The role of counsel for the child was the subject of the lecture given by the Honourable Robert Michel, former Chief Justice of the Court of Appeal of Quebec. Counsel for the child must determine whether the child, according to his maturity and development, is able to express his desire and will. The lawyer must determine whether the child expresses his own opinion without undue influence of a parent or if the child is a victim of parental alienation we seek an opinion that is freely given by the child. If the lawyer finds that the child can not give the mandate, the lawyer must inform the court and opposing parties that the child is not able to give a specific mandate. The aim is to provide a distinct voice of the child in court but it is important to remember that all decisions must be in the best interest of the child. The lawyer is going to represent what he believes is in the best interest of the child and not the interests of all parties. The Belgian sociologist Olivier Limet portrayed the evolution of the place of the child, his declarations, and the impact of high conflict separations. He notes that separations have increased in recent decades and that these changes influence the situation of families. Mr. Limet mentioned the ever more central position of the child. This child-king, as he describes it, defines now more than ever before, the contemporary family. Another transformation is the relationship to authority. Indeed, according to Mr. Limet, this relationship is not the same and this affects the parent-child relationship, and hence we see the gradual emergence of the child-king. The child-king no longer contains his frustrations and parents try to satisfy his every need. Mr. Limet also described two important developments regarding parental separations: one is the staggering increase in the number of separations and the second development is related to the quest for equality between mothers and fathers. Finally, he explains that the child s point of view is now used by the parents and that parenthood is increasingly diverse. It is actually less rare to see a divorce when the children are young and the appearance of others (biological parents, genealogical parents, domestic parents, etc.) is more and more common. ASSOCIATION DE MÉDIATION FAMILIALE DU QUÉBEC CONFERENCE SANDMAN HOTEL LONGUEUIL SEPTEMBER 27 TH AND 28 TH, 2012 The first day began with M e Pierre Tanguay who provided an overview of recent modifications in family mediation. A seminar on parenthood, which lasts two and a half hours, is available to parents 6 CHILDREN NOW

11 EXPANDING OUR KNOWLEDGE OFFER A BETTER SERVICE who are separating or divorcing at the Montreal, Granby, Quebec and St. Jerome courthouses. The seminar focuses on the psychological shock of separation, the children needs, the importance of communication between parents about the well-being of their children, etc. This seminar will also be available via videoconference in all of Quebec courthouses in the near future. M e Tanguay discussed an important change in the Civil Code of Québec which came into effect on June 15 th, 2012: section creates an obligation to parents to remain mutually informed of their income and to supply documents prescribed by the rules of child support. Parents also have the obligation to exchange information on request. Then Mr. Pascal Kewa Mutombo discussed family mediation and cultural diversity. He then pointed out the need to avoid cultural isolation and the importance not to decode other cultures through the lens of their own culture. A dispute is often a conflict on values. To solve a conflict, we must identify those values and see how they are shared. Mediation requires the acceptance of differences. Mr. Mutombo concluded that it is necessary to become aware of the risk of imbalance between spouses because of cultural conceptions. Three elements are necessary for successful mediation: willingness, flexibility, and acceptance to take the other s place from beginning to end. Recent jurisprudence in family law was the subject of M e Guy Lefrançois workshop. M e Lefrançois explained a judgment where the judge reiterated the principle that a spouse or a child does not have to live with the economical consequences of a decision by the support payer to leave his/her job without reasonable grounds. In one jurisprudential example, Mr. decided to take early retirement and wanted to reduce the alimony. There was a note from his doctor indicating that early retirement was advisable because of health problems. He received a compensation in 2011 and his revenue remained the same. However, Mr. squandered his money on drugs, games, etc. The judge decided that the children did not have to suffer the consequences of their father s actions and therefore kept the alimony at the same amount for 2011 it would subsequently be reduced. In another case, Mr. decided to take a leave of absence in order to strengthen his relationship with the children. The judge rejected the argument and decided that one cannot voluntarily reduce his income and impose the consequences to the children. M e Lefrançois also took a stand on unequal division of family assets. There will be unequal distribution of assets if there is an economical fault by either party. In one particular case, Mr. had an irresponsible conduct, he made no contribution and he did not contribute to household expenses. Madam paid for lodging, food, clothing, etc. In this particular case, an equal division of property would create an injustice; this calls for an unequal distribution of assets. The judge decided not to share Madam s pension plan. It was a clear case of economical fault on Mr. s part and therefore Madam s pension plan could not be touched. Mrs. Jennie Constantinides workshop focused on differences between men and women s behaviors in situations of negotiation. There are five variables of gender-specific behaviors in negotiation: control, anxiety, expectations, approach, and ambiguity. Because of their external locus of control, women have a low tendency to see the possibilities of circumstantial changes, do not seek to satisfy their own needs, have little confidence in their ability to negotiate and prioritize the protection of the relationship. Men however, having an internal locus of control, will assume there is an opportunity within the circumstances, they will seize any opportunity to satisfy their needs and improve their situation; they have great confidence in their aptitude to negotiate and prioritize satisfaction of their own needs. It is important to consider these differences and to know how to manage them during family mediation. Transformative mediation was addressed by M e Violaine Belzile and M e John Peter Weldon. This form of mediation seeks empowerment and mutual recognition of the parties, it is non-directive and allows freedom to the parties to select the topics and solutions to problems. The mediator therefore holds a supporting role, not a directive one. He intervenes regularly during the discussion between the parties by using four types of non-directive interventions: reflection, résumé, verification and voluntary silence. CHILDREN NOW 7

12 GPS E FOR THE PATHWAY TO SUCCESS IN HIGH SCHOOL shing elementary school this year or perhaps it is already of high school! Well then, the little GPS guide is just l book, although we do talk about school, your interests, d we especially answer your questions: What is high w will I have to organize my time? Who will be my new kind of choices will I have to make? estions and others can be found in your GUIDE FOR AY TO SUCCESS IN HIGH SCHOOL (GPS). You as much as you like. Keep it in your schoolbag or locker. o that you can easily find the topics that interest you. We some sections that you can answer with your friends. will learn at the same time how to better understand g this period of significant change in your life. EDUCATIONAL TOOLS GPS GUIDE TO THE PATHWAY TO SUCCESS... IN HIGH SCHOOL GPS Guide to the Pathway to Success... in High School demystifies preconceptions which trouble children and parents during the dreaded transition from elementary to high school. GPS uses a simple and accessible language and its goal is to prepare young people to cope with the changes experienced during the transition to adolescence. Ariane Zurbuchen is a psychologist at the Commission scolaire de la Seigneurie-des-Milles-Îles and has worked with youth for the past 15 years. She also does parent coaching in private practice. With a diploma in special education and a bachelor s degree in academic and social adaptation, Luc Renaud has worked with youth in high schools since He has implemented several programs and activities to facilitate the transition and integration into high school. GPS Ariane Zurbuchen and Luc Renaud Ariane Zurbuchen Luc Renaud GPS GUIDE FOR THE PATHWAY TO SUCCESS IN HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH AND ROAD SAFETY Youth and Road Safety is an essential tool that presents to the reader, in a fun and illustrated way, the risks and behaviors to avoid while driving. This book reminds the reader that each driver has the responsibility to respect the Highway Safety Code as well as pedestrians and other drivers around them. Youths are by nature reckless and this combined with the excitement of the first time behind the wheel and the feeling of independence often result in risk-taking that may have adverse and dramatic consequences. This guide is great for young people, as they will find detailed information and advice on how to drive safely. They will also be made aware of the consequences of reckless driving. CHILDREN NOW pursues its mission through partnerships with various schools in underprivileged areas by providing educational tools to support adolescents and help them face the realities of everyday life. LES JEUNES ET LES TRUCS POUR RÉUSSIR (French Version Only) Les jeunes et les trucs pour réussir is a tool that encourages youth to stay in school. It is intended for students who are experiencing difficulties in their studies, their activities or their relationships as well as those who are doing well and who wish to improve their lives and take control of their future and success. Collection Être citoyen Francis Robidoux ACCROCHAGE SCOLAIRE AVEC UN GRAND A We address such points as: the negative influence of others, street gangs, school dropout, drugs and tobacco; this guide will accompany the teenagers and promote a successful transition during that period of numerous changes. Finally, it addresses many questions on several topics. We offer them the tools to discover themselves and help them find what they need in order to pursue their development and determine how they can succeed. 8 CHILDREN NOW

13 Soccer is a simple sport! Therefore, I wanted to collection directed by ndd :41 produce a simple guide to help readers discover or rediscover it! In the past few years, soccer has become, by far, the most widely played sport in Canada and in Québec! In addition to its universal appeal, soccer promotes essential life and learning values and is a wonderful way to encourage inclusiveness and respect. Children who develop r this sport and identify with the values it supports will rt of the best team ever: their soccer team! Personally, I have ed the same outlook and passion that I had as a child to my in the sport. I hope you enjoy reading this book and most of member FIFA s slogan: My Game Is Fair Play! s been technical director of the Fédération de soccer du Québec since was a member of the Fédération belge de soccer and in Belgium s ministère communauté française. He has also been involved in many amateur and bs and sits on several Canadian committees, including one that focuses layer development. Even in a competitive environment, he believes that civic values should always be the guiding principles of soccer. en was a soccer player in France before becoming assistant coach of the ct. Very active in the Fédération de soccer du Québec and the Canadian ion, he is a sports consultant for various media. ISBN : Éric Leroy Soccer plus SOCCER PLUS Youth and Sports Ricaardoe Di Done CHILDREN NOW believes that social and sporting activities are essential to the development of Quebec s youth. Subsequently, Soccer Plus encourages them to practice sports. This work is intended as a practical guide and its content is recognized by the Fédération de soccer du Québec, as well as being in accordance with international rules and regulations. It provides the necessary information to enable young people to develop effective game techniques and strategies to become better players. Joining groups that promote the development of positive friendships keeps them away from street gangs while taking them outdoors, away from video games and television. This book is also an essential tool for parents who want to learn more about this sport and for all those who believe that soccer is a positive choice for the new generation. We are trying to reach as many young people as possible by diversifying our intervention sectors. We believe that education is an effective way to improve troubled youngsters lives. This is why we establish collaborations with schools. CONTINUATION OF THE CAMPAIGN SAY NO TO GANGS A MAJOR CAMPAIGN TO FIGHT AGAINST VIOLENCE, BULLYING AND STREET GANGS In 2012, we continued our fight against the scourge of gangsterism through our Say NO to Gangs campaign. Street gangs must be stopped, and at CHILDREN NOW we believe in tackling the problem right in schools. The number of street gangs in cities is growing, and children are often recruited at school. That is why our campaign is so important. S T U D Y GUIDE FOR THE USE OF PARENTS AND TEACHERS So far, we have distributed more than 1,500 Youth and Street Gangs books and nearly 60 study guides for teachers in two dozen different schools. We also produced an educational DVD that is very useful for teachers and reaching a wide audience. Luciano Bentenuto, criminologist and expert on international gangsterism, continues his volunteer work with us to tackle this phenomenon by helping us produce this material. DISADVANTAGED SCHOOLS AND THEIR ECONOMIC SITUATION This educational collection is not always accessible to schools in disadvantaged areas because of their budgetary restrictions. The organization is therefore working in partnership with foundations, businesses and individuals to create larger partnerships to help one or more schools in need (by district and province).if you are interested in prevention, education and assistance to the less fortunate, do not hesitate to contact our organization. Many disadvantaged schools in Canada need us and you. CHILDREN NOW 9

14 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN Outings and meetings encourage the development of our youth. Most adults have a vivid souvenir of a party, outing or activity they had or did when they were young. However, most of the time, underprivileged children do not have access to an outing at the cottage, a Christmas party worth mentioning or all-they can eat Easter chocolates. All of those activities, which most of us have experienced, enabled us to grow and learn while having fun. However, those activities beneficial to their physical, psychological, social and moral balance are unknown to many underprivileged children. Since children living in disadvantaged areas are subject to greater social pressure because of problems directly associated with poverty such as violence, dropout, lack of self esteem, etc., it is society s responsibility to give them the necessary resources to become responsible citizens. EASTER PARTY On April 2nd, 2012, 350 children from Quebec City took part in our Easter Party. On April 5th, 350 children from Montreal joined us for the party. SUMMER CAMP In June and August 2012, 100 children from the Montreal region experienced a summer camp. In July 2012, 100 children from the Quebec region participated as well. ECOLOGICAL AND PREVENTIVE DAY On September 25th and 27th, 2012, 120 children took advantage of this day. CHRISTMAS SHOW On December 18th, 2012, we invited 350 children from Quebec to feast with us. On December 21st, it was 350 children from Montreal who assisted this great celebration. 10 CHILDREN NOW

15 IMPROVING CHILDREN S SITUATION In 2012, CHILDREN NOW continued to offer underprivileged children activities designed especially for them. Over 1,700 children took part in our Summer Camps, Christmas Shows, Easter Parties and Ecological and Prevention Days. Again this year, the generosity of donors, sponsors and volunteers has allowed these children to have moments of true happiness, suitable for discovery. CONCRETE GESTURES EASTER PARTY With our loyal hotel partners who allow us to organize events at an exceptionally low price, we have again this year invited the children in splendid hotels. As these deprived children will never have the opportunity to go to such hotels and furthermore, this being an event organized specifically for them, we were able to make Easter a memorable occasion for the four to six years old whose only wish is to be happy. The children took part in crafts and make-up workshops and played in huge inflatable games, all this majestically hosted by Loisir Polulaire and their professional clowns. Toddlers were very happy while playing with several invited mascots. One needs to see their glowing eyes and happy faces to understand how these new big friends can bring joy, love and tenderness to the children. Forty volunteers, along with teachers-coaches, helped us with an Easter Eggs Hunt they will never forget. And what can be said about the all-you-can-eat hot buffet! To end this wonderful day, a long human chain formed by the CHILDREN NOW volunteers, the mascots and Coquette, the Easter Bunny, offered large Easter chocolates and numerous other presents to the children. These presents are offered by our various sponsors, without whom all this would not be possible. A wonderful day that the children will remember for a long time! On April 2 nd, 2012, at the Loews Le Concorde Hotel in Quebec, 350 children from the schools de la Source, Notre-Dame-de-Foy, de la Mosaïque, du Parc, Charles-Rodrigue and Notre-Dame and the CPE Jardin Bleu took part in our Easter Party. On April 5 th, at Holiday Inn Montréal Airport, 350 children from the schools Saint-Jean-Baptiste-de-la-Salle, René Guénette and Saint-Noël- Chabanel, pavillon des Découvreurs, participated in the festivities and were, in turn, equally spoiled! CHILDREN NOW 11

16 In 2012, in order to offer underprivileged children the opportunity to live a unique experience that every child should have access to, CHILDREN NOW gave the occasion to 200 children from Montreal and Quebec to leave the city for a Summer Camp. SUMMER CAMP Like other disadvantaged children HLM de la Haute-Ville de Québec and before them, 200 young people Vallée Jeunesse spent three days at had the opportunity to live a unique Camp Kéno in Portneuf, near Quebec three day experience during which City. A first cohort was there from they participated to numerous July 22nd to July 24th while a second activities such as canoeing, tree one participated from July 25th to adventure, treasure hunt, the art July 27th. For their part, disadvantaged of making a campfire, hiking in children from CCSE Maisonneuve, nature, water slides, rabaska and Centre jeunesse de l Estrie, the a lot more. In short, a variety of Association La Source and PEYO exciting and enriching activities that enjoyed a stay at Camp Papillon in delighted children and gave them the Lanaudière, near Montreal. A group of opportunity to forget the harsh reality 50 stayed from June 27th to June 29th in which they live. while another group of 50 was at the camp from August 14th to August 16th. Children from Centre Mgr Marcoux, L Évasion St-Pie X, Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, we gave the children some essential goods they will continue to use after their summer holidays : sleeping bags, clothes, shoes and hygiene products (toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.). As each year, and knowing how these young people s lives can be difficult, CHILDREN NOW ensures these outings allow them to have fun, make new friends, learn new values and eat as much as they need. The gratitude they express confirms In 2012, 200 underprivileged children the importance of maintaining this aged between 10 and 12 had the activity; it is a breath of happiness for opportunity to participate to the underprivileged children. Summer Camps: 100 children from the Quebec City area participated to the Kéno vacation camp in Portneuf and 100 children from the Montreal area participated to the Camp Papillon in Saint Alphonse de Rodriguez. 12 CHILDREN NOW

17 In 2012, 120 children took part in our Ecological and Preventive Day. On Tuesday, September 25th, children from the school Bois-Franc-Aquarelle of Montreal travelled to Camp Papillon in Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez. For their part, students from schools Saint-Paul and Saint-Philippe took the road to Domaine Scout St-Louis-de-France, in Trois-Rivières, on Thursday, September 27th. In 2012, CHILDREN NOW offered 120 children a participation to the Ecological and Preventive Day. They learned that all is not bad in life and that the world is filled with good people and great things to discover. ECOLOGICAL AND PREVENTIVE DAY In 2012, CHILDREN NOW offered 120 children a participation to the creativity, respect for others and Ecological and Prevention Day. These the planet. children had the opportunity to learn survival techniques and how to use in life and that the world is filled a compass and to have fun in the with good people and great things tree adventure. to discover. Children were not only Specialized leaders taught left with unforgettable memories, the children the joys of nature and but also with several gifts such as respect for the environment. They clothing, compass, book, food and also had the opportunity, during many other surprises. This day not this memorable day, to break their only left wonderful memories to these isolation and interact with others children, but a present renewed every thus increasing their self-esteem, time they think about it. They learn that all is not bad CHILDREN NOW 13

18 To a child, Christmas is the most important day of the year. Unfortunately, for underprivileged children, Christmas brings nothing. This is why CHILDREN NOW does everything it can to offer them a day they will never forget. Again in 2012, with the unconditional support of our hotel partners, we invited the children to come celebrate Christmas in splendid locations while treating them like real celebrities. CHRISTMAS SHOW It is 700 underprivileged children who were lucky enough to see the real Santa Claus arrive in his sleigh pulled by nine reindeers, accompanied by the Star Fairy, 50 volunteer elves as well as their favorite mascots. The magic of Christmas takes all its breadth when one sees the happiness in their eyes when tenderness and love is given to them! The children had the opportunity to attend a show hosted by professional clowns. Filled with magic like no other day, Christmas is the most wonderful celebration for youngsters. It excites curiosity, wonder and expectation in all the children. But while wealthier children discover their numerous presents on Christmas morning and enjoy a gargantuan dinner, poor children have nothing but an empty stomach because of their parents situation. Again this year, CHILDREN NOW organized the Christmas Show to fill this gap. To create a wonderfully festive atmosphere, Kromatik make-up artists painted the children s faces. The kids also took part in arts and crafts workshops and watched energetic shows by the Loisir Populaire who, once again, stopped at nothing to amuse the crowd. Sixty volunteers, all dressed up as elves, watched over the children as they were delighted by such great company. The attending mascots also played and danced with the kids: Angus from Industrial Alliance, Bobo from Brunet Pharmacies, Champion from the Remparts of Québec, Danino from Danone Canada, Flammigaz from Gaz Métro, Flik from the Service de police de la ville de Montréal, Hiboulot from Couche-Tard, Inuk from Télé-Québec, JellyBean from CTV, Natureuil from Clubs 4-H of Québec, Safety Bear from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Polix from the Sûreté du Québec, Tac-Tik from the Impact of Montréal, Ti-Ga from Sobeys, Touchdown from Montréeal Alouettes, Vic from BMR, Rescousse and Micro-Fun from Urgences-santé and, of course, Pama and Coquette from CHILDREN NOW. On December 18 th, 350 students of 1 st, 2 nd and 3 rd grade from schools Charles- Rodrigue, Notre-Dame-de-Foy, du Parc and de la Mosaïque near Quebec City had a lot of fun at Hilton Hotel in Quebec City. On December 21 st, 350 children aged from 6 to 8 from schools Saint-Paul and Marie-Favery enjoyed an exceptional day fullfiled of great surprises and entertainment at Delta Hotel in Montreal. Naturally, the children were given an impressive number of gifts, a moment everyone should experience since the children are so very happy and grateful for what they receive. 14 CHILDREN NOW

19 ENCOURAGING YOUTH PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT YOUTH PROGRAM CHILDREN NOW also offers the opportunity to young people aged between 14 and 20 to acquire work experience without compromising their studies. They can work at our call centers, one located in Montreal, the other in Quebec City. We teach them how to manage their budget and make them realize how important it is to succeed in school while working. They have the flexibility to be released from work to do their homework or exams without fear of losing their job. Meanwhile, as soon as they have the opportunity to work more hours, we offer them to do so in order to help them finance their studies and assume other expenses. We help them acquire the essential qualities to become good employees in order to later become responsible citizens. More than 100 students benefited from this program in Youngsters learn to develop the following: punctuality and respect for their work, their environment, their supervisors and their colleagues. We also help them develop self confidence, negotiation, communication, strength of character, determination, self-presentation, responsibility, teamwork and much more. CHILDREN NOW 15

20 DIFFERENT WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE Children Now is a registered charitable organisation and does not receive any continual funding from the government or other financial institutions. Therefore, it depends entirely on funds generated by its donors and sponsors. Without their support, Children Now could not pursue its mission to protect and defend the rights of children and youth in difficulty. However, you can contribute in various different ways and help make a difference in these young people s lives. SUPPORT A CHILD For each annual activity designed for children, CHILDREN NOW seeks donors (residential, corporate, religious institutions, foundations and sponsors) to give underprivileged children a chance to participate. Thanks to their generous collaboration, these kids have the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience. You can sponsor a child by contacting CHILDREN NOW by telephone, regular mail, or by visiting the website at BECOME A SPONSOR Sponsors are essential to the realisation of CHILDREN NOW s activities, because they allow the organisation to offer impoverished children essential goods, gifts, surprises, food, and much more. CHILDREN NOW accepts material sponsorship throughout the year and, more specifically, before the beginning of one of its children s activities. CONTRIBUTE TO CHILDREN NOW S OVERALL FUNDING While CHILDREN NOW requires donations and sponsorships for its specific events, it also encourages contributions to the funding of its overall activities. Many costs are tied to the other initiatives described in this annual report, such as the international conference and youth program. Without the financial support of donors, religious institutions, foundations and sponsors, CHILDREN NOW could not help children in our society. 16 CHILDREN NOW