Desjardins employees hit the streets to raise $223K for the On the Road campaign

On October 21 and 22, Desjardins held its annual On the Road campaign, an event for employees aimed at raising funds for the Desjardins Foundation. On the Road started back in 2016 with a handful of employees getting together with the goal of running from Montreal to Lévis in 24 hours, collectively covering 200 km. The initiative has grown exponentially since those days with over 440 participants showing up for the 2021 run, raising a total of $223,000.

While the run has been going strong for the past 5 years in Quebec, this year's event saw a further rise in popularity across the country with 33 employees joining from Ontario and Alberta. 

"Having employees participate from different regions across the country and the increasing interest we're seeing each year is truly reflective of the heart and dedication of our employees," said Alain Leprohon, the Executive Vice-President of Finance, Treasury and Administration at Desjardins.

The fundraiser, organized in Leprohon's executive division, had each employee run or walk for 30 minutes in their respective neighbourhoods for 24 consecutive hours, covering a total 2,130 km!

All proceeds go to the Desjardins Foundation, which has been contributing to young people's academic success since 1970. The funds raised will provide scholarships for students' post-secondary education and support teachers through Desjardins Foundation Prizes. These prizes provide financial assistance for small projects with a direct impact on kindergarten, elementary and secondary school students.

“The Administrative Services team in Ontario and Alberta were very excited to participate again this year. We’re dedicated to giving back to youth and feel passionate about supporting the communities where they live,” said Nicole Harrison, member of Leprohon’s team and participant in the initiative. “All of us are motivated knowing that the funds raised will benefit the Desjardins Foundation. Some fresh air and team spirit is always beneficial, and we’re looking forward to next year’s event.”

"Desjardins Foundation is an important initiative for the organization. Our team is always looking for ways to give back to our local communities. We're grateful for the support and donations from our partners who share the same goal – being there for our youth," said Nadia Malek, Vice-President of Procurement and Administrative Services at Desjardins, who has supported the project since its inception.

Malek and Leprohon are excited for next year's On the Road campaign and look forward to growing the initiative with hopes of attracting more participants and raising more funds to support youth and their education.