The SUMMA Gala: A uniquely moving event that raised a record $901,553

Under the honorary co-chairmanship of Lisa Swiderski and Alain Desmarais, both vice presidents at National Bank, the SUMMA benefit gala, which marked Olympiques spéciaux Québec 45th anniversary to celebrate its roots, raised $901,553. Nearly 600 people attended the event, held at the Belvédère of the Montreal Science Centre on June 10.

Guests were welcomed by a guard of honour composed of representatives from various police departments, peace officers, and members of the mounted police. The evening began with a moving tribute to the founder of the Special Olympics movement, Dr. Frank Hayden, who passed away on May 16 at the age of 96. The song “Amazing Grace,” performed on the bagpipes before peace officers standing in silent tribute, moved the crowd.

Hosted by athlete Olivier Martel and Émilie Duquette of Réseau des sports (RDS), SUMMA—whose theme was “Inclusion Takes Root”—allowed guests to network and meet Laurence Imbault, Xavier Pommiès, and Géraldine Poulin. Accompanied by “gardeners of wisdom,” these three athletes distributed wildflower seeds, reflecting the inclusive society that Olympiques spéciaux Québec aims to build: we are all different, but together, we form a magnificent mosaic.

“Every year, SUMMA gives us a unique opportunity to bring together the business community and Special Olympics Quebec athletes to highlight their achievements and demonstrate the importance of their social inclusion. The success of this evening allows us to continue our programs and helps us further establish a presence in all regions of Quebec with the support of all our partners, including the Mirella and Lino Saputo Foundation,” said Daniel Granger, Chair of the Board of Directors of Special Olympics Quebec. “We thank all the companies, organizations, and individuals who helped make this evening a success. The presence of our many guests gives us hope for a more inclusive society.”

Throughout the evening, guests were able to fully appreciate the impact of Olympiques spéciaux Québec on the lives of athletes and their families. Dr. Hayden’s famous quote was recalled on several occasions, notably by Olivier Martel: “We are all much more alike than we are different, and sport is a great common denominator.”

To that end, Alain Desmarais of National Bank took the opportunity to thank the crowd:

“You know, sports have an extraordinary power to bring people together, break down barriers, and promote inclusion. So your commitment and support will have a tangible positive impact by providing thousands of athletes with the resources they need to thrive and reach their full potential.”

While recognizing the work of the organization’s pioneers, the theme “Inclusion Takes Root” looked toward the future to invite those present to get involved with the athletes, particularly by becoming volunteer coaches.

At the end of the evening, La bande à Elvis, composed of Olympiques spéciaux Québec athletes, gave its final performance. Amid the cheers, applause, and smiles of the guests, the band’s show allowed attendees to dance and have fun while doing their best to catch the stuffed animals thrown by singer Ian “Elvis” Loiseau.