William Crooks, The Record, 12 January 2025
On January 10, Société Alzheimer de l’Estrie received a generous donation of $10,000 Canadian from Lake Magog Lodge No. 55. This donation, presented at the office of the association in Sherbrooke, highlighted a joint commitment to support people and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.
David Bouffard, a Masonic champion from Lake Magog Lodge, explained on the place that the donation was part of a nationwide fundraising initiative that coincided with the 150th anniversary of the lodge. "Each year, masons from our territory choose a task to support. This year we organized various activities, including bowling and another fundraising events to rise $10,000," Bouffard said. The funds were divided between the assistance of a Quebec City colleague surviving with Alzheimer's illness and the support of Société Alzheimer's de l'Estrie.
The decision to donate to Société Alzheimer de l’Estrie was very individual for the members of the lodge. Bouffard noted that the relation with individual affected by the illness inspired their decision, adding a crucial accent to their contribution. “Our values are friendship, improvement and helping others. Our goal is to transform uncircumcised stones into perfect – this is simply a life-long process," he said, referring to the philosophical foundations of masonry.
Caroline Giguère, CEO of Société Alzheimer de l’Estrie, expressed her gratitude for this crucial gift. "I am very happy and I think it is highly generous that they thought of us," she said after the presentation. Recognising the many organisations that the lodge could support, Giguère stressed how this donation would bring direct benefits to the community.
The funds will be allocated to the improvement of a fresh foster home to be opened in 2026. This facility will offer short-term stays, from 1 to 7 nights, to let carers a much needed break while providing quality care for their loved ones. “This donation will be allocated straight to a foster home,” Giguère explained, describing the task as essential for the relief and well-being of caregivers.
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