Philanthropy plays an increasingly important role in our lives and is vital to the growth of our economy.
I've always wanted to get involved and actively contribute to people's well-being.
Serge Paquette
A unique experience...
At the end of 2023, I left NATIONAL Public Relations, where I had an extraordinary career spanning two decades, 15 in which I held the position of Managing Partner of the Montreal Office. In 2005, NATIONAL acquired Communication et Stratégie, a public affairs firm I founded in 1987...
The desire to contribute...
Throughout my life, I have always been committed to helping improve the quality of life and health of my community. I have been fortunate to play an active role in the success of fundraising activities for countless organizations.
A need for inspiration...
Today, philanthropy plays an increasingly important role in Quebec and in the rest of Canada, employing large numbers of people nation-wide. Foundations and non-profit organizations are faced with growing demands, which cannot be met by government alone.
Mecena's services
Whether it is the development of an annual or major fundraising campaign, the implementation of a major gifts program, a strategic reflection on its mission or the creation of a new foundation, Mecena stands out with its three approaches:
What do you seek to contribute to society? What tools will you use to achieve your goals, and what actions will be most appropriate to get there? How much time do you have to succeed? What are your short- and long-term financial objectives? What are your expectations, and those of your collaborators and partners, in terms of visibility and analysis of the impact of your actions? Are you up to date with emerging trends in socially responsible business? Mecena can help you answer all these questions, so that you can build a comprehensive philanthropic plan, and ensure the long-term viability of your organization.
Do you have the resources and level of commitment needed to achieve success? Does your existing team need assistance, advice, and/or additional resources? Mecena can help you build the dream team that can effectively and efficiently deliver on the projects that are important to you. This may involve bringing in additional resources or experienced professionals offering targeted services tailored to your needs. We'll advise and support you in your choices.
Do you have access to the leaders of private foundations and the managers of large fortunes? Are you up-to-date with the latest information and developments that concern them? The number of private foundations in Quebec is growing significantly. There are now nearly 1,000 of them. Quebec also boasts some fifty major family offices. These wealth management offices aim to manage the fortunes of large families, taking their interests into account, setting financial objectives and developing investment strategies, all while preserving family harmony.
You need to be constantly aware of the specific areas of interest favored by these private foundations and family offices, as strict criteria are set before decisions and commitments are made. These spheres of interest are numerous, including physical and mental health, education, culture, justice, the aging population, reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, support for people with disabilities and new immigrants. The leaders who take over these organizations are also more sensitive to important environmental as well as diversity and inclusion issues. In addition, many donors now wish to personally choose their causes and dedicate their donations.
Mecena likes to cultivate good relationships and values the search for common interests. We plan approach and meeting strategies, and develop positioning plans in advance, to make decision-makers aware of the importance of your actions and to influence their next philanthropic choices.