An early start in the world of philanthropy

My philanthropic career started when I was very young! I saw my parents get involved, giving, and I was always sensitive to the idea of helping others!” A sensitivity that quickly took concrete form: when he arrived in Quebec, he organized a first fundraiser for Sun Youth. His professional career started in commerce but in 2018, at a crossroads in his life, he made a decisive move: “I decided to embrace a career in philanthropy.”

He joined Centraide Québec – Chaudière-Appalaches et Bas-Saint-Laurent, an experience that put him in contact with “passionate, brilliant and generous people,” and discovered what went on behind the scenes of the community milieu. A world where he immediately felt at home: “There’s never been a morning, going on 10 years now, that I haven’t looked forward to going to work!”

He moved on to Make-A-Wish/Rêves d’enfants, an intense experience marked by some heartbreaking stories, in particular as a father. Today, at the Fondation du Cégep Garneau, he’s finding deep fulfilment in his mission: “Getting up every morning to help students reach their potential—it’s revitalizing!”

Expertise that combines human relations and philanthropic strategies

A graduate in commerce and marketing, Aurélien draws a relevant parallel between his academic training and philanthropy: “Philanthropic development involves selling, but not a product. What we ‘sell’ is a tightknit community, a stronger, more resilient community.”

His career has allowed him to develop key skills: “I’ve clearly developed networking skills! I also think I’m pretty competent in everything having to do with partner relations.” He excels in organizing corporate volunteer committees and recognition of these volunteers, while effectively structuring fundraising campaigns. He also shares his expertise every chance he gets, including at the upcoming AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising course, where he’ll be leading Module 2 on developing an integrated fundraising program.

An engaged vision for the future of philanthropy

The issue he holds dear to his heart? School dropout rates. He wants to make sure that every student has the best possible chances of succeeding. A mission he takes seriously, convinced that a society’s future depends on young people who are well educated and well equipped.

An active member of the AFP’s Education Committee, he works hard to “promote Quebec organizations” and encourage professionalization of the sector. For those who’d like to get involved in philanthropy, his advice is explicit: “Go for it, dive in!!!!” However, he adds: “there’s no room for improvising in the field anymore.” For him, structure and professionalism are key to an effective and impactful sector.

And life outside philanthropy?

An ardent soccer fan, Aurélien jokes: “I can watch a match while simultaneously listening to a radio show analyzing the same match.” A passion that reflects his commitment: immersing himself 100% in what he loves, with an unwavering capacity for analysis and enthusiasm!

The benefits of being an AFP member? Aurélien values, above all, “networking and, without hesitation, opportunities for improvement!” He salutes the contribution of different regions of Quebec  and embraces new ideas: “Someone who’s just started working in philanthropy surely has things to teach me, a fresh new vision! And I want that new vision!”

Join the AFP community today and benefit from a dynamic network, inspiring training and the exchange of invaluable expertise!