Celebrating Academic Perseverance: Summer BBQ at Our Lady of Pompei Elementary

At Valsef Dream Big Foundation, education isn’t just a priority — it’s a promise. Through our Education Pillar, we strive to empower children by supporting initiatives that foster learning, perseverance, and equal opportunity.

One recent example of this commitment came to life during a joyful summer BBQ at Our Lady of Pompei Elementary School, where students were recognized and celebrated for their academic perseverance. The day was about more than food and fun — it was a heartfelt tribute to young people who stayed committed to their learning journeys, despite the obstacles they faced.

Rooted in Community: Why Montréal-Nord Matters

The event took place in Montréal-Nord, a borough known for its rich cultural diversity, resilience, and strong community spirit. While the area does face socio-economic challenges, it’s also home to many families who deeply value education and are committed to their children’s success.

Nearly one in three children in Montréal-Nord lives in a low-income household, and high school dropout rates are notably higher than the city average. These realities can make it harder for students to stay engaged in school — but they also make it even more important to celebrate effort, progress, and determination. Events like this one reinforce a simple but powerful message: every effort counts.

Powered by Parents, Supported by Volunteers

The success of this celebration was thanks to the incredible efforts of the Our Lady of Pompei Parents Committee, who organized the entire event. On the day of, 10 of our Valsef Dream Big volunteers from Valsoft Corporation, Valnet Inc and Valpay joined in to lend a hand — helping with setup, assisting with activities, and ensuring the students felt seen and valued. Their presence helped elevate an already special day.

Why We Show Up for Education

This celebration is a powerful reminder of what our Education Pillar is all about: uplifting communities that champion young learners, making sure progress is acknowledged, and creating spaces where encouragement fuels confidence.

When children are celebrated for showing up, trying their best, and not giving up, we’re helping to lay the foundation for a future filled with possibility.

A Grateful Heart

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Our Lady of Pompei Parents Committee for inviting us to be part of this memorable day. It was an honor to contribute — even in a small way — to a community celebration filled with pride, encouragement, and joy.

If you want to be part of future volunteering events, please visit our Event page here.