ALEXANDRE-PARKS FOUNDATION GALA
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Alexandre-Parks Foundation Gala Dinner, where elegance meets philanthropy!
Saturday November 14, 2026
Notre Centre, Grande-Digue
Time : 5 PM – Complimentary welcome cocktail 6 PM – Gala
Ticket : $60
Join the Alexander-Parks Foundation for an unforgettable evening, starting with a welcome cocktail followed by an exquisite three-course dinner, with options of a seafood casserole, roast beef, or a delicious vegetarian entrée.
This gala is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the collective impact we achieve collectively. Indulge in a unique culinary experience, surrounded by a congenial atmosphere with entertainment for everyone’s enjoyment.
Tables can accommodate up to 10 people. To reserve yours, please contact us at aparksfdn@gmail.com. As a token of our appreciation, logos of businesses reserving a table will be proudly displayed on a banner at the gala entrance.
Looking to make an even greater impact? Learn how to become a sponsor by clicking “Gala Sponsorship Program”.
The evening will also feature inspiring tributes to honor Alexandre, highlighting the incredible support driving the mission of the Alexandre-Parks Foundation: advancing research on autoimmune diseases, breast cancer, and pulmonary fibrosis.
Save the date and join us for a memorable evening filled with hope, generosity, and inspiration.
RECOGNITION GALA 2025
A Night of Gratitude, Emotion, and Inspiration
Grande-Digue, November 8, 2025 — The Alexandre-Parks Foundation held its second Recognition Gala at Notre Centre de Grande-Digue, bringing together donors, partners, volunteers, and board members to celebrate excellence, commitment, and generosity in support of its mission.
An Opening Filled with Warmth and Gratitude
President Nicole Gautreau Parks warmly welcomed guests, emphasizing the importance of this evening dedicated to recognition and gratitude. She also highlighted the remarkable presence of two centenarian guests, Mrs. Hectorine Landry and Mrs. Doris Cormier, whose attendance reflects a lifelong commitment to the community and the Foundation.
She reminded guests that the Foundation was created in honor of Alexandre to advance local medical research and inspire the next generation of scientists. Nicole spoke about Alexandre’s journey — his courage, humor, and generosity — as he faced a rare autoimmune disease that took his life at just 26.
Since its creation, the Foundation has awarded over $55,000 in doctoral scholarships to students at the Université de Moncton conducting research in autoimmune diseases, breast cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, and inflammation.
She concluded with one of Alexandre’s reflections:
“Everyone has their destiny, and we should never take life for granted, because we never know when it will end.”
A Heartfelt Tribute of Love and Hope
Cecil Parks, Alexandre’s father, shared a touching and heartfelt message:
“Tonight, we gather to celebrate the Foundation’s achievements, the progress made in medical research, and the joy of being together.”
He fondly described Alexandre’s spirit:
“He loved seeing others happy, laughing, and sharing joy. If he were here tonight, he would say, ‘Enjoy your meal and celebrate life.’”
Cecil also thanked the Foundation’s volunteers for their commitment and kindness:
“Your presence and generosity make everything the Foundation accomplishes possible. Where people gather in honor of a loved one, that person’s spirit is among us.”
He concluded:
“Your compassion and generosity honor Alexandre’s spirit — a young man who believed, even through pain, that life is as good as you want it to be.”
The Voice of the Next Generation
Jérémie Doiron, recipient of the 2025–2026 Alexandre-Parks Doctoral Scholarship, shared how the Foundation’s support impacts research and training:
“Alexandre worked on his projects with remarkable passion and enthusiasm. In research labs, that kind of energy is what makes great scientists. He truly was one.”
He emphasized the value of the scholarship:
“It supports not only students, but also their research teams and projects focused on cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. Every donation to the Foundation creates a ripple effect — strengthening science and the development of future researchers.”
2025 Gala Honourees
The Gala recognized ten individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions:
- Volunteers: Claire Baudouin; André Boulard (2nd consecutive year); Lucille Gautreau (2nd consecutive year); Johanne and Guy Léger; Cécile Lirette
- Dedication: Andrew Boudreau – Baker Tilly (2nd consecutive year); Rose Després
- Event Contribution: Canadian Tire Shediac — Kim Laflamme and Jonathan Plante; Sécurité EXPERT Security — Brandon LeBlanc
- Philanthropic Impact of the Year: Sécurité EXPERT Security — Brandon LeBlanc
A Night of Unity and Hope
The evening concluded in an atmosphere of inspiration and gratitude.
Nicole Gautreau Parks closed with heartfelt words:
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your presence and support. Together, we keep Alexandre’s spirit alive and inspire the generations to come.”
Thank you to our generous 2025 sponsors:
Fondation John Lyons / Coop IGA de Shediac, UNI, Security Expert, and Canadian Tire Shediac (Kim Laflamme & Jonathan Plante).
The Countdown Begins!
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RECOGNITION GALA 2024
Thank You!
On February 3, 2024, the Alexandre-Parks Foundation Recognition Gala was a resounding success, and we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the event!
Congratulations to all the honorees!
Ours heartfelt thank you to all attendees, to the artists who generously donated their artwork, the organizing committee, and Notre Centre Grande-Digue for the outstanding banquet. Special appreciation goes to our board of directors and all the volunteers for their phenomenal collaboration. With your assistance, the evening was a remarkable success!
With the final tally, the Alexandre-Parks Foundation is thrilled to announce that a total of $18,000 was raised, thanks to your generosity. This exceptional accomplishment sets the stage for a significant impact of our future projects.
Thank you to each and every one of you for helping to create an unforgettable Gala and for your continued dedication to the mission of the Alexandre-Parks Foundation.
Following the 2024 Recognition Gala, we are pleased to announce the generous contribution of $5,000.00 from Mr. Brandon LeBlanc, President of Expert Security Sécurité, that was announced during the event. This donation will establish a second doctoral scholarship for the upcoming year, thereby supporting local young scientists and advancing medical research.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mr. LeBlanc for his ongoing support.
2019 CHARITY BENEFIT DINNER
The Alexandre-Parks Foundation held its second benefit dinner on August 25, 2019, once again achieving a sold-out event. The resounding success of this evening mirrored the foundation’s unwavering commitment to its mission of advancing education through its PhD scholarship program. With over $10,000 raised during the event, attendees reaffirmed their dedication to spreading a message of hope for those who need it most. The event served as a testament to the enduring legacy of Alexandre Parks and the power of collective action in making a positive impact on education and the lives of countless individuals.
2018 CHARITY BENEFIT DINNER
The inaugural benefit dinner hosted by the Alexandre-Parks Foundation on August 26, 2018, proved to be an overwhelming success, surpassing all expectations by raising an impressive sum of over $10,000. This heartwarming evening was a poignant tribute to the memory of Alexandre Parks, drawing in more than 200 guests to a sold-out event. Amidst an atmosphere filled with camaraderie and goodwill, attendees came together to celebrate Alexandre’s legacy and contribute to a noble cause, leaving behind cherished memories that would forever resonate within the hearts of those who attended. It was an evening of unity, philanthropy, and shared purpose, setting a remarkable precedent for future endeavors of the foundation.