The Centre de prévention et d’intervention pour les victimes d’agression sexuelle (CPIVAS) marked its 40th anniversary with an emotional and inspiring gathering held on October 23 in Laval. In front of a full audience of 145 guests, the organization celebrated four decades of dedication to supporting survivors of sexual violence through an evening filled with reflection, gratitude, and hope.
Under the theme “40 Years of Support and Prevention of Sexual Violence A Milestone to Celebrate!”, the event featured a thoughtful mix of speeches, humor, and live music.
“Forty years spent supporting, defending, and standing with survivors. Forty years of raising awareness and helping society evolve around an issue that affects us all,” said Dorcas Destinoble, Chair of the CPIVAS Board of Directors, during her opening remarks. She also paid tribute to the organization’s staff and leadership, highlighting “their vision, compassion, and professionalism in turning CPIVAS’s mission into daily action.”
Executive Director Monique Villeneuve delivered a heartfelt speech that balanced pride in the organization’s legacy with concern about the current challenges facing the community sector.
“Behind every service we offer are teams fighting every day to keep this mission alive. And I want to say it clearly today our organizations are running out of breath,” she said.
Villeneuve pointed to the tangible impacts of chronic underfunding, including the recent layoff of three employees, the suspension of the school prevention program for elementary students since September, and the temporary closure of the waiting list for adult survivors announced on June 25.
Despite these setbacks, she reaffirmed CPIVAS’s unwavering commitment to its mission:
“CPIVAS has lived through 40 years of struggle, progress, and victories — and we will continue. Every survivor deserves to be heard, every child deserves protection, and dismantling myths and prejudices begins here, together.”
The celebration also paid tribute to the organization’s founders, staff, and board members who have shaped its history, as well as to the Laval community, which has supported CPIVAS’s mission of listening, intervention, prevention, and social change since 1985.
The organization extended its gratitude to its partners and sponsors, including Caisse Desjardins des Grands Boulevards, 30 Minute Hit Laval Chomedey, Uxpertise, and the office of MNA Céline Haytayan, along with many donors and artists whose contributions made the evening a success.
“Together, let’s keep breaking the silence,” concluded Dorcas Destinoble, inviting guests to continue working toward a society free from sexual violence.
About CPIVAS
Founded in 1985, the Centre de prévention et d’intervention pour les victimes d’agression sexuelle (CPIVAS) provides support, advocacy, and prevention services for victims of sexual violence. The organization offers individual and group intervention programs, as well as educational workshops designed to promote awareness, equality, and safety throughout the community.
More information: www.cpivas.com
