Laval Families Magazine is proud to be a part of the 4th Annual Alesia’s Magnolias Fundraiser whose goal is to raise awareness of early childhood diseases and help fund the cardiology floor of the new Montreal Children's Hospital. This is in memory of Bill Karidogiannis and Sheyda Senoglu’s two-year old daughter who passed away suddenly from an undetectable heart condition in May 2010.

Each year the Laval community shows their support for this local family and their fundraising goal through their participation in this fun-filled event, which includes face-painting, musical performances, cooking stations, and many other entertaining family activities. Alesia’s Magnolias not only has brought together a community for the sake of fundraising, but as Sheyda points out in this issue's feature article, the event also provides a learning opportunity for teaching children how to give. Alesia’s Magnolias takes place on Sunday, April 6, 2014 at the Centre de congrès Palace in Laval, and for those who cannot attend they can donate via the foundation page at; childrenfoundation.com/fundraiser/alesia-magnolias Donations are accepted all year round. Their 2014 fundraising goal includes purchasing a new playroom and waiting area for the hospital.

We are also supporting another great initiative in our community; the Sir Wilfrid Laurier Foundation 1st Annual Défi Laurier Challenge on May 25, 2014. Departure point takes place at the Centre de la Nature in Laval. You can WALK - RUN - BIKE (2 to 5 km) or Family loop 10 km - Beginner 42 km - Intermediate 76 km - Advanced 111 km. Money raised goes back to the schools of Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. Also 50<>percentage<> of the profits will be given back to their own school! Take the challenge and raise funds for your school and register now!

For more information visit; www.laurierchallenge.com or call (450) 621-5600 ext.1351

Luigi Morabito