Blackburn Athletics Fund donates $1M to youth sports charity in Montérégie

The Fondation du Centre Jeunesse de la Montérégie received a $1 million donation from the Blackburn Athletics Fund, expanding sports, camp and equipment access for young people in youth protection services. The gift builds on a nine-year partnership that has already reached more than 6,000 youth.

Why it matters: - The $1 million gift will help thousands of young people in youth protection services take part in sports before adulthood. - The funding is meant to support confidence, emotional well-being and positive experiences that can aid personal growth. - The partnership has already reached more than 6,000 youth with sports activities, day camps, gear and equipment.

What happened: - The Fondation du Centre Jeunesse de la Montérégie announced an exceptional $1 million donation from the Blackburn Athletics Fund. - The fund was created by Jerry Blackburn in 2017. - The announcement was dated Sept. 3, 2026, in Montreal, Quebec. - Martine St-Arneault, executive director of the foundation, said the $1 million milestone reflects Jerry Blackburn’s ongoing commitment.

The details: - The donation will help children under youth protection access sports environments of their choice. - The foundation says the support will also cover day camps, gear and equipment for youth who want to play sports. - The program is described as helping young people manage emotions and anxiety by reducing isolation and creating meaningful connections. - The foundation says the experience can help participants rebuild their lives, discover strengths and develop resilience. - Cloé De Repentigny, who benefited from Jerry Blackburn’s donations during a stay at a rehabilitation center, said the support helped her build happy memories, regain self-confidence and recognize her value.

Between the lines: - Jerry Blackburn frames the giving as a direct extension of his own experience with physical training after major personal challenges at age 22. - Blackburn Athletics and Blackburn Pilates now support nearly 50,000 people on their fitness journeys. - The donation ties a commercial fitness network to a social-impact mission focused on vulnerable youth.

What's next: - The foundation will continue using donor support to expand access to sports, cultural activities, healthcare and postsecondary education. - The Blackburn Athletics Fund partnership is expected to keep funding opportunities that help youth move toward adulthood with more stability.

The bottom line: - The $1 million donation turns sports access into a broader support tool for thousands of youth facing serious hardship.