An exceptionnal $1M donation benefits thousands young people of the Fondation du Centre Jeunesse de la Montérégie

Thanks to the Blackburn Athletics Fund

MONTREAL, QUéBEC, CANADA, September 3, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- A perfect illustration of this major donor’s social commitment, the Blackburn Athletics Fund, created by Jerry Blackburn in 2017, this exceptional donation of $1 M will enable thousands of children under the care of youth protection services to actively participate in sports before reaching adulthood, develop their full potential, and, at the same time, enjoy the benefits of the sports environments of their choice—which will boost their confidence while providing positive experiences that contribute to their personal growth.

This philanthropic partnership with the Blackburn Athletics Fund has proven extremely successful over the past nine years, benefiting more than 6,000 youth in the youth protection system who, in addition to sports activities, have access to day camps and the gear and equipment they need to play the sport of their choice.

“Reaching the $1 million milestone represents much more than just a number. It is the result of Jerry’s unwavering commitment, which, year after year, has shown us that together, we can offer thousands of children opportunities to push their limits, believe in themselves, and build a future full of possibilities,” emphasizes Martine St-Arneault, Executive Director of the Fondation du Centre Jeunesse de la Montérégie.

The Blackburn Athletics Fund: Sparking Passions and Transforming Lives
Beyond physical activity, this high-impact initiative will also give thousands of young people the opportunity to better manage their emotions and anxiety by breaking down the sense of isolation they often experience, forging meaningful connections, and enjoying positive experiences—just like other children their age. For many, it becomes a true source of resilience that helps them rebuild their lives, discover their strengths, and believe firmly in their future.


“Donations aren’t just for paying for activities or supplies: in my case, they allowed me to build happy memories, regain my self-confidence, discover my true strengths, and, above all, realize that I have value,” said Cloé De Repentigny, who benefited from Jerry’s donations during her stay at a rehabilitation center. For her, behind every outing, every activity, and every smile, there is a young person who, for a moment, forgets their struggles and rediscovers a little hope.

A Life-Changing Contribution
At the age of 22, after overcoming significant personal challenges, Jerry Blackburn discovered the transformative power of physical training—an experience that would shape his desire to give young people the opportunities they need to become the best versions of themselves. Today, his network—Blackburn Athletics and Blackburn Pilates—supports nearly 50,000 people on their fitness journeys.

“What matters isn’t what you do, but why you do it. And I do it for the kids, knowing that in tough times, physical activity can change your day… and even your life. “I’m proud that my entrepreneurial journey helps so many people take care of themselves, but I’m even prouder when I see that I can change the life paths of hundreds of young people every year.” — Jerry Blackburn, founder of Blackburn Athletics.

About the Fondation du Centre Jeunesse de la Montérégie
The Fondation du Centre Jeunesse de la Montérégie supports thousands of children and adolescents in the Montérégie region who are facing abandonment, neglect, or extreme hardship. Every young person has their own story. Every young person has their own dreams. Thanks to the community’s generosity, the Foundation provides them with the financial support a parent would offer: access to healthcare, sports and cultural activities, the opportunity to pursue postsecondary education, a smooth transition to adulthood, and guidance toward a more stable and promising future.

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