An evening of emotion, engagement and heartfelt commitment to preventing youth homelessness
On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, more than 400 guests gathered at Maison Alcan for the fourth annual Dans la rue des jeunes fundraiser, the theme of which was “Building Bridges, Empowering Dreams.” Presented by CN and Sun Life, the evening brought together a community dedicated to supporting young people in vulnerable situations and preventing youth homelessness.
Inspiring messages
Actor François Gadbois set the perfect tone, emceeing with warmth and sensitivity.
The tangible impact of past fundraising efforts was highlighted in the opening remarks, after which several speakers took the podium, including Dans la rue board member Yannick Landry, Chief of Staff to the President and CEO and Special Counsel at CN, and Chair of the Dans la rue des jeunes Honorary Committee, as well as Yashar Sasha Zarrabian, Regional Vice-President, Group Retirement Services, Sun Life Financial, who also sits on the Honorary Committee.
These messages emphasized the essential role of long-term partnerships in creating the conditions needed to foster stability and inclusion for the young people served by Dans la rue.
Human connection as a springboard to the future
In her speech, Dans la rue Executive Director Cécile Arbaud explained the rationale behind the theme “Building Bridges, Empowering Dreams,” underscoring the importance of human connection, access to resources and one-on-one guidance in helping young people along their individual journeys.
For the past 38 years, Dans la rue has provided tailored support that rekindles hope and opens up new horizons.
Brandon Mundl, Olivier Setlakwe, Ann Bouthillier, Cécile Arbaud, Yannick Landry, Hélène Brisebois, Yashar Sasha Zarrabian
The much-awaited highlight of the evening started with a touching video about the Day Centre’s music room and the Dans la rue Housing complex, featuring profiles of several of the young people we serve and their musical creations.
This was followed by heartwarming and poignant live performances — including poetry, song, guitar and piano — by Mike, Xavier and Lou, all of whom have received services from Dans la rue. Their work demonstrates the power of art as a means of expression, a tool for healing and a way of affirming lived experiences.
Stand With Youth Photo Booth Gallery
Share your photos, tag @danslarue and use the hashtag #DLRDJ2026 💛
An unforgettable evening of hope
In all, this fourth edition raised $270,000 in support of Dans la rue’s work. We owe this tremendous result to the energy and determination of the event sponsors, honorary committee members, donors, board members, young philanthropists, suppliers, volunteers, youth and team members.
The spirit of community and collaboration among all those present made it a meaningful and hope-filled evening that will strengthen our shared commitment to carrying forward the mission of our beloved founder, Pops.
