YOUNG MONTREAL PHILANTHROPISTS TAKE OVER TORONTO - In support of the first
Quebec recipient of Business for the Arts' Arnold Edinborough Award

MONTREAL, Sept. 30 /CNW Telbec/ - A delegation of 50 young philanthropists of Montreal will take the train in direction of Toronto on October 7 to support the importance of leadership and volunteerism in the arts in Quebec. The initiative, organized by artsScène Montréal, will take place in conjunction with the Business for the Arts Gala that will be held the same evening at Toronto's Royal Ontario Museum. Of special note, Mélanie Joly will be receiving the Arnold Edinborough Award that recognizes every year outstanding volunteerism, of a young Canadian business professional, in the arts. It is the first time that the award is won by a Quebecer.

Connecting with young patrons from across the country
In addition to supporting Mélanie Joly, rewarded for her extraordinary volunteer contribution to the Musée d'art contemporain de Montreal, the delegation formed by artScène will be meeting other young philanthropists. According to Natalie Chapdelaine, copresident of artScêne Montréal, "over 500 young professionals from Toronto and Canada will participate in this event. This will be a unique opportunity to create bonds and see what is done elsewhere with regards to cultural financing. It is also a golden opportunity for young professionals to showcase Quebec culture and demonstrate the cultural vitality that inspires us." This initiative will also allow the 50 participants to network amongst themselves during the trip. Mélanie Joly will be part of the delegation, as well as many other personalities from the arts and business scenes.

Revitalizing philanthropy in Montreal
Montreal should be proud of itself; for the last few years the city has been witnessing important changes in volunteerism in the arts with all signs pointing to a renewal for philanthropy. A new generation of business people is increasingly committed to the financing of cultural organizations. These young patrons want to shape the city to their image and strengthen Montreal's cultural identity. Even with a strong identity, corporate financing of the arts has long been a challenge. An individual like Mélanie Joly is thus a real source of inspiration as she sets the example regarding support for arts organizations.

The role of artsScène Montréal
artScène Montréal is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote the commitment of young professionals (20 to 40 years old) in the arts scene. As a vital link between the business and the arts environment, artScène wishes to promote philanthropy as well as artistic vitality in Montreal with values such as respect, sharing, creativity, commitment, openness and communication. artScène is a national initiative of Business for the Arts.

For further information:

Mélisande Simard
T. 514 982-6771 ext. 5 or 514 812-7548