The Montreal Sacré-Coeur Hospital Foundation marked the centennial year of the Hospital in a stunning fashion with its Centennial Ball, held on April 25. This botanical-themed fundraising event raised a record-breaking $2.5 million to support the caregivers, researchers, educators—and above all, the patients—of our century-old Hospital.
“A centennial is more than just an anniversary. It is a rare, deeply human and symbolic moment that invites us to take a step back to reflect on how far we have come… and the path we still have to build together. My team and I are truly honoured to count on your support,” shared Julie Pouliot, President and CEO of the Montreal Sacré-Coeur Hospital Foundation, with the guests.
This historic achievement is partly attributable to the Ball’s honorary co-chairs: Guy Côté, Senior Wealth Advisor & Portfolio Manager, Guy Côté Integrated Wealth Management team, National Bank Financial, and Véronique Racanelli, President of the Lise & Giuseppe Racanelli Foundation.
A Memorable Evening to Celebrate an Important Milestone
More than 700 committed individuals gathered at La Nesra to celebrate the Sacré-Coeur Hospital’s 100th anniversary. From the opening cocktail reception, a visual presentation highlighted key moments in the Hospital’s history and the values that have shaped its reputation over the past century. Influential figures, business leaders, and doctors were then invited to take their seats in a sumptuous and immersive setting designed by the Multicolore agency team in the ballroom.
The vibrant Pénélope McQuade, spokesperson for the Foundation, hosted the evening with her trademark humour and sensitivity. Talented artists enhanced the gastronomic experience—crafted by Jon Bloom—with musical and dance performances.
Guests also had the opportunity to explore chapters of the Hospital’s history when Sister Claire Houde, representative of the Sisters of Providence, joined Pénélope McQuade on stage for a historical interview. They discussed the origins of the Hospital, the choice of plants and location for its construction in 1926, as well as the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Providence, its founders.
This emotionally rich evening transitioned to the dance floor, energized by the musical atmosphere created by DJ Guillaume Michaud.
Remarkable Surprises
The evening reached a festive peak with a procession of 100 cakes, marking the Hospital’s anniversary in a way that was both delicious and visually striking. Guy Côté and Véronique Racanelli then addressed the audience.
“What sets Sacré‑Cœur apart, above all, are its teams: physicians, researchers, healthcare professionals, and managers who succeed in combining rigour, innovation, and humanity, even in a demanding environment. Tonight, we are gathered to collectively affirm our commitment to contributing to the next 100 years of this essential institution. The presence of leaders from all walks of life demonstrates one thing: health is everyone’s business,” said Mr. Côté.
The honorary co-chair also created a deeply emotional moment by announcing—much to the guests’ surprise—a major $1 million donation during the evening, a gesture that reflects her family’s profound commitment to our mission.
“Tonight is not simply a celebration of an anniversary, but of a living, thriving work—one that is resolutely focused on the future. Whether we care for the body or support the mind, it is always the same mission: to be there, at the right moment, to transform a life. Long live Montreal Sacré-Coeur Hospital. Its history is remarkable—and its future is just as promising,” declared Ms. Racanelli.
This exceptional act of generosity brought the evening’s total to a record $2.5 million, which will help prepare the next 100 years of care and innovation.
An Extraordinary Mobilization
The Foundation team extends its heartfelt thanks to the honorary co-chairs, donors, and partners who chose to believe, invest, and act alongside us at this grand event. Special thanks to:
- Our 5 Great Philanthropists: Bombardier, Fiera Capital, the Morris and Rosalind Goodman Family Foundation, Guillevin International, and Groupe Shefteshy.
- Our 11 Builders of the Future: Accenture, Aliments Roma, National Bank of Canada, BMO, KPMG, Magnus Poirier, Matrox, Pointe Picard Capital, Pomerleau, Premiere Construction-Design Inc., Québecor, and RBC Royal Bank.
Their generosity will have an impact far beyond the Centennial Ball. That evening, fertile ground for generosity was sown, and the $2.5 million raised will be invested to continue cultivating the legacy of care, innovation, and compassion that makes Sacré-Cœur an institution with a rich past and a forward-looking future.