Fifty years ago, a group of parents and volunteers dreamed of supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities. This was long before neurodevelopmental disorders were given importance, and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID) were defined. These volunteers wanted children and teens to be able to lead more fulfilling lives, regardless of their income. It was around this vision that the Miriam Foundation began its support work in 1973.
Since then, the organization has grown and established itself as an essential pillar for thousands of families in Montreal. To date, more than 8,000 people have seen their lives transformed thanks to the specialized services and support programs offered by Miriam’s professionals. The human approach and quality services make it a unique organization where people with ASD or ID, as well as their families, can find support at all stages of life.
In addition to benefiting from a unique and invaluable volunteer commitment during fundraising activities, the Miriam Foundation continues to innovate to better support families.
A necessary presence that complements the current public service offering
In five decades, the Miriam Foundation has raised more than $50 million, which has helped meet the evolving needs of people with ASD or ID. At the Gold Learning and Research Centre, which is at the heart of this commitment, Miriam welcomes more than 500 families each year in a large and modern location in Mount-Royal. Opened in 2020, the Centre offers a welcoming and warm environment, where everyone receives personalized support to allow them to reach their full potential.
As a pioneer of early intervention programs, Miriam offers essential support to children from a young age to fill the gaps in services before entering the school system. Along with children and teens, it also provides adults with a variety of recreational activities, including creative and therapeutic arts, to foster personal growth and improve their quality of life.
Financial assistance to ensure the accessibility of services
The Foundation plays a vital role in Miriam’s ecosystem of services; by raising funds to offer specialized services and programs at a reduced rate in order to increase their accessibility for a greater number of people; by maintaining infrastructure and supporting the acquisition of equipment; as well as by funding research and innovation, which allow its experts to offer personalized and cutting-edge services.
This success is based not only on the support of the community, but also on a team of passionate and dedicated professionals. The professionals who devote themselves daily at Miriam firmly believe that a stimulating and adapted environment can foster their development and improve the quality of life of each person.
An ambitious fundraising campaign
As the Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary, it is looking optimistically towards the future. On November 7, 2024, a major fundraising event will bring the community together around this milestone event. This evening will be much more than a simple celebration; it will mark a collective effort to achieve an ambitious goal: to raise one million dollars. These funds will not only expand the service offering, but also meet the growing needs of people of all ages with ASD or ID.
To make this hopeful future a reality, we need you! Taking part in the benefit event or donating will directly contribute to funding clinical research, modernizing infrastructure and ensuring quality services. Together, we can ensure that thousands of people continue to receive the support they need to thrive.
Join the movement and help us build an inclusive and hopeful future.
To learn more visit: miriamfoundation.ca