Daniel Germain, President and Founder of the Club des petits déjeuners du
Québec, Is Appointed a Member of the Order of Canada

BOUCHERVILLE, QC, April 7 /CNW Telbec/ - Upon receiving the highest civilian award within the Canadian honours system, Daniel Germain's first thoughts were not of his own achievements, but of the thousands of partners, volunteers and other people whose selfless efforts are at the very heart of the Club des petits déjeuners du Québec success.

"This honour doesn't belong to me alone," insists the Club's president and founder. "It's the product of all the hard work by those people who have put their faith in me and decided to support this major social initiative devoted exclusively to children's well-being. From the very start of the Club des petits déjeuners du Québec journey, I've been surrounded by generous individuals who are willing to put words into action. Together, we've worked tirelessly to make it possible for all children to have an equal chance of academic success. This award is the culmination of our efforts and recognizes how far we've come. And while the extent of what we still have to do can sometimes seem overwhelming, I know that each time I look at this prestigious medal, I'll be reminded that we've done a great job and that we're continuing to head in the right direction."

The Order of Canada commemorates an individual's lifetime achievement, exceptional dedication to the community or outstanding contribution to the nation. The award recognizes the accomplishments of both Daniel Germain and the entire Club des petits déjeuners du Québec family.

About the Club des petits déjeuners du Québec

Daniel Germain founded the Club 15 years ago with the goal of providing a hot, nutritious breakfast to children who were at risk of starting their day on an empty stomach. He wanted these children to be able to begin school with their stomachs full and minds open to learning-just like their fellow students. Last year, thanks to the donations received and the efforts of its many partners, the Club's 3,500 volunteers welcomed 15,000 children and served some 2.1 million breakfasts in 247 Quebec schools. Each of these kids was able to start their day off with a smile on their face, a meal in their stomach and an eager mind. Along with providing a much-needed meal, the Club has another mission. As part of its underlying approach, it aims to promote and encourage the values of self-esteem, respect for others, integrity, honesty and teamwork among youth. Volunteers receive training in this approach and apply it to all activities organized by the Club in order to build the children's self-esteem, little by little, day by day.

To find out about all aspects of the Club's activities and learn more about its mission, visit its website: www.clubdejeuners.org.

For further information: Marie-Claude Bienvenue, Club des petits déjeuners du Québec, Director of Communications, [phone]; *Photo available upon request.