MONTREAL, Feb. 18, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - The Institut Pacifique (Pacific Path Institute) launches today its annual fundraising drive today with Yves Charbonneau, Vice President, Sales, Agropur Division Natrel, serving as honorary president. The target is to raise $275,000 for the purpose of training as many young Quebecers as possible in peaceful conflict resolution.
"I jumped at the opportunity to chair the campaign because the Institut is having a real impact on our youth," said Yves Charbonneau. "The kids who take the organization's program are generally less aggressive and experience less anxiety, fear and isolation. They are more likely to report bullying, better equipped to protect themselves against bullies, and more focused in school. They stay in school longer."
In 2013, more than 165 early childhood education centres and 500 schools implemented the Institut's Vers le pacifique (towards peacefulness) and Différents, mais pas indifférents (different, but not indifferent) programs. The Institut now wants to expand these initiatives across the province.
In Quebec, one in ten youths say they have been bullied. With the advent of modern communication technologies, bullying is no longer contained within school walls. Today, kids can receive text or Facebook messages 24 hours a day.
"Every $1,000 we raise helps 1,850 students build a solid foundation for dealing with bullying and violence," said Shirlane Day, Executive Director of the Institut Pacifique. "Our programs support their growth and development, and help prevent violence-related problems in society." To donate, call 514-598-1522 or visit the Institut's website at www.institutpacifique.com
About the Institut Pacifique
The Institut Pacifique is a not-for profit organization founded in 1976 dedicated to developing, implementing and promoting conflict resolution skills and preventing psychosocial problems among children, youths and adults. Its objective is to fight violence by promoting peaceful behaviour.
About Agropur
Founded in 1938, Agropur is an important player in the North American dairy industry. With sales of more than $3.8 billion, the Cooperative is a source of pride for its 3,348 dairy producer owners and 6,300 employees. Agropur processes more than 3.3 billion litres of milk per year in its 31 plants across North America and boasts an impressive line of products that includes such prestigious brands as Natrel, Québon, OKA, iögo and Olympic (joint ventures with Ultima Foods), Farmers, Agropur Signature cheese, Central Dairies, Agropur Grand Cheddar, Sealtest and Island Farms.
SOURCE: Agropur
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