Welcome to the CFO Dinner

Tonight, your presence means far more than an evening together. Every gesture, every conversation, and every donation directly contributes to protecting children and teenagers who are victims of sexual violence, and to easing the burden on the families who support them. Thank you for being here to cultivate hope.

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Our 2026 Partners and Sponsors

To ease the burden on young victims of sexual violence.

Together, let’s cultivate hope.

Information: evenement@marie-vincent.org

How to access Marie-Vincent’s services?

Marie‑Vincent is not an emergency service. Children and adolescents, as well as their parents or caregiver, must be referred by a professional in order to receive services at Marie‑Vincent.

This means that an appointment cannot be made directly by a parent or loved one unless the family has already received services from Marie-Vincent in the past.

Who can issue a referral?

Referrals must come from an external professional, such as:

a professional from the Director of Youth Protection (DPJ), a CISSS or a CIUSSS (CLSC, CSSS)
a professional from the school system
a professional from a community or private organization
a member of the medical staff (physician, nurse, etc.)
a police officer who has conducted a police investigative interview with a child or adolescent victim (or who has collaborated in a multisectoral agreement

What information is required at the time of referral?

The following elements are not required to initiate a referral, but must be provided later in order to confirm the child’s or adolescent’s placement on the waiting list:

written consent from the holders of parental authority (for children under 14) or from the adolescent (14 and over)
authorization to share relevant information for the file
any relevant reports (DPJ assessments, medical reports, etc.)
a court order, if it recommends treatment at Marie-Vincent
proof of withdrawal of parental authority, if applicable
an application to IVAC (Crime Victims Compensation) for children and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence
all information required for the call with the access-to-services agent, described below

What information must be provided to the access-to-services agent?

Complete contact information for the child or adolescent and parents
Context of the sexual violence or sexual behaviour problems
Context of the disclosure
Interventions already attempted (particularly for children under 12 with sexual behaviour problems)
Overall functioning of the youth (symptoms, risk behaviours, any history of aggression or violence)
Family context
Professionals involved (names, contact information, roles and previous or current interventions)
Information on the socio-judicial trajectory (police investigation, DPJ, legal and medical steps, etc.)
Steps taken with IVAC

Who is eligible for our clinical services?

Marie-Vincent offers specialized services to different groups of people directly or indirectly affected by sexual violence. Each type of service meets specific needs and, in most cases, requires a referral from a professional (school, CLSC, DPJ, physician, etc.).

For a child under 14 to receive services, certain criteria must be met:

A report to the DPJ must have been made, and the sexual violence report must have been recognized as founded by the DPJ or by police services.
Parents or holders of parental authority, even if one of them is the perpetrator, must consent to the process.
Parents or a significant adult must be involved and available to accompany the child, generally once a week.
An IVAC (Crime Victims Compensation) application must be completed before services begin.

See the page “Child Victims of Sexual Violence”

A brief assessment of the behaviours is first conducted to confirm that they are problematic and that optimal interventions have already been attempted.

Referral criteria include:

the child’s age at the time of referral (10 years and 364 days maximum; services may nevertheless continue up to age 12)
consent from the holders of parental authority to receive services
the involvement of an accompanying adult (parent or loved one) ready to actively participate in the process
persistence of sexual behaviour problems despite previous interventions

See the page “Children With Problematic Sexual Behaviours”

Adolescents may be referred to Marie-Vincent if:

a report to the DPJ has been filed (recognition of the situation as “founded” is not mandatory)
the adolescent consents to receiving services and commits to the process
they are involved and available to attend meetings, usually once a week
an IVAC application is completed before services begin

See the page “Teens Who Have Experienced Sexual Violence”

Young people in Montréal aged 12 to 24 who are being sexually exploited may receive services through the Sphères program.

This concerted program offers voluntary and confidential support tailored to the needs and pace of the young person. It aims to promote safety, harm reduction and personal recovery in collaboration with multiple community, police and institutional partners.

Discover the Sphères program See the page “Teens Experiencing Sexual Exploitation”

Parents and/or significant adults play a central role in the recovery of the child or adolescent.

Marie-Vincent offers them psychosocial support, parental guidance and concrete tools to better understand the situation, manage their emotions, and support their child throughout the process.

To receive immediate intervention services, the child or adolescent must be on the waiting list.

Parental support services and guidance are available when the child or adolescent is already receiving clinical services at Marie-Vincent, or, in some cases, as prevention or in response to a disclosure.

See the page “Services for families and parents”

Professionals from the school, community, medical, police or social services sectors may receive occasional clinical support to better intervene with youth.

Two types of services are offered:

Advisory services: information and guidance on best intervention practices
Professional consultation: clinical discussions with a psychotherapist to further explore a complex situation

See the page “Services for professionals”

Our clinical services

Marie-Vincent’s team of professionals and specialized partners provides a range of services centralized under one roof (police, medical, socio-judicial, psychosocial and psychotherapeutic services) to child and adolescent victims of sexual violence, to children under the age of 12 presenting sexual behaviour problems, and to their families.

Our services are follow the same model at our two centres, located in Montréal and Montérégie.

By grouping all services together and providing a caring environment, we are able to minimize potential trauma caused by the disclosure process. Service integration also streamlines interventions by partners to serve the best interest of the child or youth.

In parallel, our close collaboration with the Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Abuse of Children allows us to evaluate these services and their impact, strengthening our ability to provide optimal support while ensuring an integrated, evidence-based approach.

If a child or adolescent confides that they have experienced sexual abuse, we invite you to see the following page:

How to respond in cases of doubt or disclosure

Specialized support for youth and their parents and/or significant adults

Marie-Vincent is not an emergency service. When a referral is issued by a professional so that a child or family may receive Marie-Vincent’s services, and once the request is complete, our team will assess the priority of the case.

To know who can be referred to our services and how to proceed, see the following section:

How to access our services

Following the disclosure of sexual violence or sexual behaviour problem, and when the service request is completed, immediate psychosocial intervention is made available to parents and/or adolescents as promptly as possible.

This short-term intervention consists of several meetings aimed at:

Restoring a sense of safety
Acknowledging the impacts of sexual violence
Developing a concrete action plan to support empowerment
Understanding the socio-judicial process (when applicable) and the services offered at Marie-Vincent
Strengthening parenting skills (when applicable)
Exploring thoughts associated with sexual abuse or sexual behaviour problems
Appropriately regulating emotions associated with sexual abuse or sexual behaviour problems
Practicing self-care

In order to determine the most appropriate services for the referred child or adolescent, Marie-Vincent conducts a needs assessment.

A Marie-Vincent professional (psychotherapist or psychosocial practitioner) conducts an assessment to determine the child’s or adolescent’s needs. The resulting recommendations orient the child, adolescent, and their parents and/or significant adults toward appropriate internal and external services.

As part of the needs assessment, a research assistant affiliated with the Marie-Vincent Research Chair works in collaboration with the clinician responsible for the assessment to present the modalities of ongoing research projects. If the family, child or adolescent consents, the research assistant may administer standardized questionnaires to obtain a global view of strengths and weaknesses in order to better orient them within our service offering.

The objectives of the assessment are to:

Document the child’s situation across different areas of life (social, emotional, behavioural, academic, family, etc.)
Assess issues related to sexual abuse and/or sexual behaviour problems
Identify coping strategies or feelings related to the sexual abuse
Assess the parent’s capacity to be supportive of their child
Evaluate the consequences of sexual abuse and/or sexual behaviour problems for the child and parents
Recommend services tailored to the child’s specific needs

Based on the needs assessment and ongoing adaptation to the child’s situation, they may receive one or more specialized services.

Based on a cognitive-behavioural approach, this treatment aims to reduce the negative impacts on the child’s or adolescent’s functioning. Depending on the intervention plan, the parent or significant adult may be invited to participate in sessions.

The objectives of psychosocial therapy are to:

Develop skills for identifying, expressing and managing emotions
Develop cognitive coping strategies (understanding the link between thoughts, emotions and behaviour)
Acquire knowledge about sexual violence and/or sexual behaviour problems (SBP)
Identify harmful or inaccurate thoughts related to sexual abuse, sexuality and SPB
Identify factors that trigger and sustain SBPs
Build knowledge in sex education
Develop assertiveness and self-protection skills

Psychotherapeutic treatment is based on trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT). The objective of psychotherapy is to bring about meaningful changes (cognitive, emotional or behavioural), improve the youth’s functioning and reduce psychological distress. Depending on the intervention plan, the parent or significant adult may be invited to participate.

This treatment is associated with a significant reduction in symptoms among young victims of sexual violence or those who present sexual behaviour problems, including reduced anxiety and guilt and improved self-esteem.

The objectives of psychotherapy are to:

Develop skills for identifying, expressing and managing emotions
Develop cognitive coping strategies
Acquire knowledge about sexual violence and/or SBPs
Gradually uncover trauma-related memories
Reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms
Identify and restructure harmful or inaccurate thoughts
Identify factors that trigger and sustain SBPs
Build knowledge in sex education
Develop assertiveness and self-protection skills

Delivered by two professionals—a psychotherapist and a psychosocial practitioner—this service is also based on a cognitive-behavioural approach and on playful and creative activities. Like individual intervention, group psychotherapy is associated with a significant reduction in symptoms among child and adolescent victims of sexual violence.

The objectives of group psychotherapy are to:

Develop skills for identifying, expressing and managing emotions
Develop cognitive coping strategies
Acquire knowledge about sexual violence and/or SBPs
Facilitate the structured sharing of trauma-related memories
Reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms
Identify and restructure harmful or inaccurate thoughts
Identify factors that trigger and sustain SBPs
Build knowledge in sexual education
Develop assertiveness and self-protection skills

All of the above-mentioned services are provided directly by Marie-Vincent staff. However, our team also works closely with several partners to offer additional services, under one roof, to youth and their families.

Through a partnership with CHU Sainte-Justine, a team of physicians and nurses provides medical consultation services to children and adolescents on-site at Marie-Vincent. The consultation is intended primarily to assess and reassure the child or adolescent regarding their overall health, including sexual, physical and mental health. The consultation can be followed by referrals to specialized professionals. In cases of sexual violence, a medical examination can help reassure the child or adolescent regarding their physical integrity.

The objective of the police investigative interview is to obtain an accurate account of the events disclosed by the child and to determine, in a non-suggestive manner, whether sexual violence occurred. During the interview:

An investigator questions the child or adolescent
The interview takes approximately 45 minutes and is held in a small room at Marie-Vincent; the child’s testimony is recorded
The recording avoids the need for the child or adolescent to repeat their story multiple times
Another investigator, accompanied by a youth protection worker, observes the interview live from another room
Parents or significant adults present at Marie-Vincent are informed of the process but cannot attend the interview

This program is a structured preparation process for minors aged 5 to 17 who are required to testify in criminal court. It may be delivered on-site at Marie-Vincent by a practitioner from the Crime Victims Assistance Centre (CAVAC). The program aims to:

Minimize stress before and during testimony
Promote high-quality testimony
Familiarize minor witnesses with the court and key terminology
Help overcome fears
Build confidence
Explain skills to be applied
Practice skills through role-playing

Learn more about the Child Witness Program

To discover our complete specialized service pathway, see the interactive diagram below.

Discover the different services offered by our clinical team

Services for families and parents

Discover

Services for children

Discover

Services for adolescents

Discover

Services for professionals

Discover

La vision de la philanthropie

Vision et mandat du service du développement philanthropique à Marie-Vincent

Les activités philanthropiques de Marie-Vincent sont dédiées à la mobilisation des ressources financières et d’acteur·trice·s de changement. Par le biais de campagnes de financement et d’événements-bénéfice, notre équipe joue un rôle essentiel dans la viabilité financière de nos services. L’équipe de la philanthropie travaille avec coeur pour établir des relations durables avec les donateur·trice·s et les sensibiliser à la mission de Marie-Vincent qui aspire à bâtir une communauté protégeante et de soutenir les jeunes victimes de violence sexuelle.

L’équipe du développement philanthropique est composée de quatre personnes qui assument divers rôles et responsabilités pour soutenir nos donateur·trice·s.

L’équipe du développement philanthropique est responsable de l’ensemble des activités de fidélisation et de reconnaissance de ses généreuses et généreux donateur·trice·s actuels·le·s ainsi que de toutes les sollicitations auprès des donatrices et donateurs potentiel·le·s. Elle est également en charge des activités liées aux campagnes de financement, aux événements organisés par une personne de sa forte communauté et aux événements-bénéfice engageants pour la cause. Elle collabore également avec les différents comités composés d’ambassadeurs et ambassadrices engagé·e·s envers la mission de Marie-Vincent.

Pour joindre l’équipe, vous pouvez contacter Émilie Dumas, directrice du développement philanthropique :

Courriel : emilie.dumas@marie-vincent.org
Téléphone : 514 285-0505 poste 337

Consulter la Charte des droits des donateurs

Corporate partners

Why become a partner

Partnering with Marie-Vincent means choosing a meaningful partnership. It means taking concrete action to prevent sexual violence and to support children, adolescents and their families on their path to healing. As a company, your support enables us to amplify our impact, advance research, offer specialized services and train thousands of professionals across Québec.

You make a tangible impact in the lives of hundreds of youths every year
You strengthen your social responsibility with your teams and clients
You help showcase your values of solidarity, equity and social justice
You mobilize your network around an essential cause

Many ways to contribute

Several collaboration opportunities are available to support Marie-Vincent. Our philanthropy team is available to explore options with you in order to build a partnership that reflects your organization.

Corporate donation

Support our mission directly through a one-time or recurring donation. Donations are essential to maintaining the quality and continuity of our services. An official tax receipt is issued for each eligible gift.

Event sponsorship

Associate your brand with one of our flagship events, such as Marvin on the Rock or the CFO Dinner. As a sponsor, you benefit from positive and targeted visibility while contributing to concrete action for the cause.

Internal fundraising

Bring your teams together around a solidarity initiative: fundraising campaign or event, sports challenge or a themed day. This type of initiative strengthens internal engagement while having a direct impact on our mission.

Gifts in kind or services

You can support our work in ways other than monetary donations. For example, by offering products, equipment, professional services, visibility or spaces. Any concrete contribution allows us to free up resources and direct them straight to our mission.

Donation-matching program

Help amplify your employees’ generosity by implementing a matching gift program. For every donation made by an employee, your company can contribute an equal or greater amount, effectively doubling the impact.

We thank our partners

Companies such as Québecor, HSBC, Deloitte, Sun Life and Power Corporation already support us. Thanks to them, we go further every day.

What if your company also became a force for change?

Write to philanthropie@marie-vincent.org to let us know of your interest.

Finances and Governance

Publications

Your support, our responsibility

At Marie-Vincent, every dollar invested makes a real difference in the lives of the young people we support. Whether it comes from an individual donor, a government or a partner, this support is managed with rigour and responsibility to maximize our impact. We believe that transparency is essential to building trust and being accountable for our actions.

For this reason, we are providing a clear overview of our funding sources, expense allocation, and governance.

Where does our funding come from?

47%

Government grants and contracts

43%

Individual and corporate donations

4%

Training

3%

Interest and miscellaneous

3%

Contributions

How are our funds allocated?

50%

Services for youth and their families

27%

Training and prevention

12%

Administrative expenses

8%

Communications and philanthropic development

2%

Research Chair

1%

Staff well-being, support, and training

What are your donations used for?

Marie-Vincent uses donations directly to provide specialized services to children, adolescents and parents affected by sexual violence or sexual behaviour problems.

Donations primarily fund clinicians’ work time: psychosocial intervention and psychotherapy, preparation for interventions, report writing and support to families.

As a rough estimate, in 2024–2025, based on the time invested by our clinical teams:

$317 covers one psychosocial intervention session with a child or adolescent
$395 covers one psychotherapy session with a child or adolescent
$243 covers one intervention session with a care giver

Read our annual reports

Explore our annual reports, highlighting our actions, results, and use of funds over the years.

See annual reports

Teens Experiencing Sexual Exploitation

Marie-Vincent provides services to young people aged 12 to 25 who have experienced sexual exploitation. Our services can be offered in collaboration with our external partner Sphères.

If a child or adolescent confides in you about experiencing sexual assault, we invite you to consult the following page:

How to React in Case of Doubt or Disclosure

What is Sexual Exploitation?

Sexual exploitation can take many forms, but it always has one thing in common: someone profits from the body or sexuality of a young person to gain an advantage, whether financial, material, or otherwise.

It may involve an adult or a minor who takes advantage of a situation of vulnerability, dependency, or trust. This person may use manipulation, threats, or coercion to attract, control, or maintain the young person in this relationship for their own benefit.

Sexual exploitation can take various forms:

pimping or trafficking for sexual purposes
child or youth pornographye
online sexual violence
child luring

Support Provided to Teens Experiencing Sexual Exploitation

Marie-Vincent provides psychotherapeutic support to teens experiencing sexual exploitation, particularly through the Sphères program.

This support helps young people understand what they have experienced, reduce the impacts of trauma, and regain control over their lives.

Each accompaniment is adapted to the pace and needs of the young person.

The Sphères Program

Sphères is a support program for young Montrealers aged 12 to 24 experiencing sexual exploitation or at risk of exploitation.

It brings together several partners from the community, police, and institutional sectors, who work together to protect and support young people.

Marie-Vincent professionals provide psychotherapeutic support to:

work through experienced trauma
reduce harms related to exploitation
promote rebuilding and self-confidence

Discover the Sphères program Read the article “Sphères Project: Acting Together Against Sexual Exploitation”

Tools for Teens

Marie-Vincent provides several information and awareness tools to help young people recognize signs of exploitation, understand their rights, and find help safely.

Article

La cyberviolence sexuelle

La cyberviolence sexuelle est une forme de violence sexuelle réalisée au moyen des différentes technologies de communications, telles que le web, les médias sociaux et les textos. Découvrez les différentes formes de cyberviolence sexuelle.

Video

Et toi, connais-tu toutes les personnes avec qui tu échanges en ligne?

Vidéo visant à prévenir la cyberviolence sexuelle auprès des jeunes de 5^e année.

Article

Connais-tu les ressources qui peuvent t’aider?

Discover all tools

Teens Who Have Experienced Sexual Violence

At Marie-Vincent, teens who are victims of sexual violence aged 12 to 17 receive specialized services tailored to their needs.

These services are centralized under one roof and provided by a team of professionals in collaboration with our police, medical, psychosocial, and psychotherapeutic partners.

If a child or adolescent confides in you about experiencing sexual assault, we invite you to consult the following page:

How to React in Case of Doubt or Disclosure

What is Sexual Violence?

Sexual violence encompasses all forms of physical or psychological violence that are sexual in nature.

It can take various forms: sexual assault, sexual exploitation, online sexual violence, child luring, female genital mutilation, juvenile prostitution, or pimping.

Learn more about sexual violence

How to Access Marie-Vincent’s Services

To find out who can be referred to our services and how to proceed, consult the section:

How to Access Our Services

Support Provided to Teen Victims of Sexual Violence

Marie-Vincent offers a specialized intervention program for teens aged 12 to 17 who are victims of sexual violence.

Our interventions are based on a cognitive-behavioural approach, and are provided individually or in groups, depending on the needs of the person being supported.

The modality and duration of support are determined based on the recommendations from the needs assessment and the youth’s progress throughout the support process.

The support promotes:

identification and expression of emotions
emotion management
expression of experiences related to sexual assault
identification and modification of erroneous beliefs about sexuality
acquisition of knowledge about sexual assault and sex education
development of assertiveness and self-protection
improvement of communication skills

Following support, it is shown that teens exhibit:

better self-esteem
reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
fewer avoidance strategies
reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress and dissociation
reduced feelings of guilt

Source: Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Abuse of Children

Tools for Teens

Marie-Vincent offers numerous tools to support teens, promote understanding of their emotions, and help them rebuild at their own pace.

Online Game

Jeu Zones sensibles

Article

Le consentement

Le consentement, c’est le fait de donner son accord. Le consentement sexuel, c’est lorsqu’on accepte volontairement et librement de participer à une activité sexuelle.

Video

Et toi, es-tu toi-même en ligne?

Vidéo visant à prévenir la cyberviolence sexuelle auprès des jeunes de 6^e année.

Discover all tools

Children With Problematic Sexual Behaviours

At Marie-Vincent, children under 12 who exhibit problematic sexual behaviours receive specialized support tailored to their needs and development.

All services are provided under one roof by a team of professionals working in collaboration with our police, medical, psychosocial, and psychotherapeutic partners.

If a child or adolescent confides in you about experiencing sexual assault, we invite you to consult the following page:

How to React in Case of Doubt or Disclosure

What Are Problematic Sexual Behaviours?

Problematic sexual behaviours are actions or attitudes of a sexual nature that do not correspond to a child’s age or developmental level.

They may be inappropriate, repetitive, or intrusive, and cause harm to the child themselves or to others.

Learn more about problematic sexual behaviours

How to Access Marie-Vincent’s Services

To find out who can be referred to our services and how to proceed, consult the section:

How to Access Our Services

Support Provided to Children With Problematic Sexual Behaviours

Marie-Vincent offers a specialized intervention program based on a cognitive-behavioural approach. The duration of support depends on the assessed needs and the child’s progress throughout the process.

The interventions help children to:

Understand, identify, express, and regulate their emotions
Understand the connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions
Recognize and correct sexual behaviour problems
Learn to regulate their emotions
Reframe certain erroneous beliefs about sexuality
Develop assertiveness, self-protection, and communication skills

After support, children generally demonstrate:

a better understanding of sexuality;
healthier emotional regulation;
a reduction or elimination of problematic behaviours;
greater self-confidence and assertiveness.

Source: Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Abuse of Children

Why Is It Important to Intervene Quickly?

Problematic sexual behaviours can have serious consequences if left unaddressed. They can:

harm relationships with other children;
limit participation in certain activities;
reinforce maladaptive behaviours;
lead to legal consequences in adolescence. Starting at age 12, these behaviours are considered sexual transgressions and may be prosecuted.

Appropriate support helps children understand their needs and find healthy and safe ways to meet them.

Learn more about problematic sexual behaviours

Tools for Parents and Children

Marie-Vincent provides several practical and educational tools to help children and their parents better understand, prevent, and manage problematic sexual behaviours.

Fact Sheet

Affiche Les parties de mon corps

Guide

Cahier parent-enfant

Ce cahier offre des contenus adaptés au développement des tout-petits pour faciliter la communication sur divers sujets liés à l’éducation à la sexualité. Cet outil offre ainsi la possibilité de se positionner comme adulte de confiance en répondant aux questions d’un∙e jeune enfant et du même coup de prévenir la violence sexuelle.

Book

La bulle de Miro

La bulle de Miro vise à faire comprendre aux enfants ce que sont les frontières interpersonnelles et intimes à travers l’histoire de Miro. Lors d’une journée, tout ceux que Miro rencontre veulent lui faire une caresse, un bisou ou un câlin. Il n’en a pas envie mais ne sait pas comment le dire.

Discover all tools

Child Victims of Sexual Violence

At Marie-Vincent, children and adolescents aged 0 to 17 who have been victims of sexual violence receive specialized services tailored to their needs.

These services are centralized under one roof and provided by a team of qualified professionals who make up our clinical team in collaboration with our police, medical, and socio-judicial partners.

If a child or adolescent discloses sexual assault, consult the page:

How to React in Case of Doubt or Disclosure

What Is Sexual Violence?

Sexual violence encompasses all forms of physical or psychological violence that are sexual in nature.

It can take various forms, including:

sexual assault with or without physical contact;
sexual exploitation;
online sexual violence;
child luring;
female genital mutilation;
child prostitution or pimping.

Research shows that children who are victims of sexual assault exhibit more post-traumatic stress, dissociation, internalized disorders (anxiety, depression) and externalized disorders (anger, aggression), as well as emotional, academic, and relational difficulties. They also have an increased risk of impaired executive functions.

During adolescence, externalized behaviours are more commonly observed, along with increased suicidal ideation and greater vulnerability to violence in romantic relationships. Persistent feelings of shame, guilt, and helplessness may also continue.

Reference: Hébert, M., Robichaud, M., Amédée, L. M. & Smith, K. (2020). Assessment Toolkit for Child and Adolescent Victims of Sexual Assault. Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Abuse of Children, Université du Québec à Montréal.

Learn more about sexual violence

How to Access Marie-Vincent’s Services

To find out who can be referred to our services and how to proceed, consult the section:

How to Access Our Services

Services Provided to Child Victims of Sexual Violence

Marie-Vincent offers a specialized intervention program based on a cognitive-behavioural approach. Interventions can be provided individually or in groups, depending on the child’s needs.

This support promotes:

expression and understanding of emotions;
emotional regulation;
expression of experiences related to sexual assault;
identification and modification of erroneous beliefs about sexuality;
acquisition of knowledge about sexual assault and sex education;
development of assertiveness and self-protection;
improvement of communication skills.

After support, children generally exhibit:

better self-esteem;
reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms;
reduced avoidance strategies;
reduced post-traumatic stress;
reduced feelings of guilt;
reduced dissociative symptoms.

Source: Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Abuse of Children

Testimony of Hope

See the support provided by Marie-Vincent through the testimony of Amélie and her mother.

Tools for Parents and Children

Marie-Vincent provides numerous tools to support both children and their parents.

Fact Sheet

Affiche Les parties de mon corps

Guide

Cahier parent-enfant

Book

La bulle de Miro

Discover all tools

Halftime: A Prevention Project for Young Athletes

In recent years, we have seen numerous cases of athletes disclosing cases of sexual violence and cyberviolence in the headlines. Growing public awareness of sexual violence in sports has revealed the ongoing perpetration of this problem. The Halftime project was developed to address the specific dynamics of sexual violence in sports, such as the coach-athlete power imbalance, locker room issues, and the culture of silence.

With funding from Public Safety Canada, Marie-Vincent will implement training and intervention activities to prevent sexual violence and cyberviolence in sports among youths aged 12 to 17.

Who is Halftime for?

It is essential to involve not only young people in the prevention of sexual violence and cyberviolence in sports, but also the significant adults around them. The different target audiences for this project are:

Young athletes aged 12 to 17
Adults in sports settings
Parents and relatives of young athletes

Objectives

This project aims to implement training and intervention activities to prevent sexual violence and cyberviolence in sports among youths aged 12 to 17. More specifically, this project will:

Increase knowledge about sexual violence and cyberviolence;
Raise awareness among young athletes about the importance of disclosing any incidents or observations of sexual violence and cyberviolence;
Equip adults in the lives of young athletes to respond effectively to a disclosure;
Inform parents and relatives of young athletes about the scope of the issue and ways to be supportive of their youths.

Approach and Content

The Halftime project is a prevention initiative that promotes the development of knowledge about sexual violence and integrates movement and peer-to-peer exchanges. The bystander-based approach is central to the project, which is also influenced by gender-transformative and socio-ecological approaches.

Training

The very first step in implementing this project in school settings is the delivery of a first training module for all staff members, to establish the foundations on the issue of sexual violence and cyberviolence.

A second training module is offered to future project facilitators, to further elaborate on the specificities of the issue of sexual violence in sports contexts. This second module also allows participants to master the content of the workshops that will be offered to young people and to develop intervention skills in case of disclosure.

Workshops

The project consists of 6 workshops lasting 50 to 60 minutes each.

The first 3 workshops are aimed at young people in the first cycle of secondary school and address the following themes:

Sexual violence in sports contexts and its different forms;
Violence in locker rooms and disclosure;
Myths and consequences of sexual violence.

The other 3 workshops are aimed at young people in the second cycle of secondary school and address the following themes:

Bystander intervention;
Self-protection strategies and the concept of consent;
Egalitarian relationships in sports.

Various pedagogical methods are used within the workshops to promote learning and critical thinking: video capsules, guided discussions, and team activities. Movement is integrated into several workshops to stimulate the interest of young athletes and keep them engaged.

Parents and Relatives

Coming soon.

Interested in this project?

Are you a school offering a Sport-Study program or a sports concentration?

514-285-0505

prevention@marie-vincent.org

Training

For adults involved in school sports settings:

Basic module for all school staff (approximately 2 hours).
Advanced module and workshop facilitation support for frontline workers, physical education and health teachers, and sports coaches (full day).

Following your participation in the training, you will receive copies of the tools to implement the workshops in your setting!

Discover the first training module

Tools

Discover our tools

Preventing Online Sexual Violence Against Youth with a Peer-Based Prevention Approach (PBPA)

The Peer-Based Prevention Approach (PBPA) is Marie-Vincent’s first prevention program for teenagers. Developed with the support of Public Safety Canada, it was created following numerous youth-led and youth-focused prevention activities conducted by Marie-Vincent between 2017 and 2019 in high schools across Greater Montréal.

PBPA is a prevention and awareness program that directly involves young people in addressing online sexual violence. By involving youths in prevention efforts, this initiative helps foster a safer school environment and increase awareness of digital risks.

The continuation of this project is made possible through funding from the Secrétariat à la jeunesse.

Key Statistics

Nearly 1 in 4 youths

(23%) who have been in a romantic relationship have shared intimate images with a partner. Of these, 16% reported that the images were shared without their consent.

More than one-third of girls

(36%) reported being asked to send nude or sexually suggestive photos.

More than 1 in 7 boys

(16%) reported being asked to send nude or sexually suggestive photos.

1 in 4 youths

reported receiving a nude or sexually explicit image of someone else that was shared without that person’s permission.

Source: “No to Sexual Cyberviolence for Our Youth!” – Marie-Vincent

Who Is the Peer Prevention Approach For?

Frontline workers, professionals, and teachers working with youths
Young people who want to actively contribute to the prevention of online sexual violence

The youths selected as peer trainers are chosen for their leadership, empathy, and ability to positively influence their peers.

Objectives

Actively engage youth in creating a safer school environment.
Equip youths with the knowledge and tools to lead awareness workshops on sexual cyberviolence.
Educate older elementary (Grade 5-6) and younger high school students (Secondary 1-2) on the dangers of online sexual violence and ways to protect themselves.

Approach and Content

Through youth-led awareness workshops, PBPA empowers young people, helps them develop critical thinking skills, and raises their awareness of online sexual violence.

For youths participating in peer-led workshops, this approach fosters open discussions in an inclusive and egalitarian environment, allowing participants to share experiences with peers who understand their viewpoint.

The PBPA program is implemented in two phases:

1. Selection and Training of Peer Trainers

A group of peer trainers is selected and undergoes 15 hours of training to prepare them to lead awareness workshops for younger students. The training covers:

Youth digital habits and negative online experiences
Forms of online sexual violence
Workshop facilitation and classroom management techniques
How to become a leader and role model

2. Awareness Workshops Led by Peer Trainers

Once trained, peer trainers lead workshops for Secondary 1-2 students (and sometimes Grade 5-6 students). The workshops cover topics such as:

Live streaming and online issues
Social influence and peer pressure
Non-consensual sharing of intimate images
Consent
Manipulation tactics used online
Self-protection strategies
Social media and self-esteem

For more information, contact us at prevention@marie-vincent.org.

Training

Module 1 : Prevention and Intervention in the Context of Online Sexual Violence – Best Practices

Module 2 : Implementing a Peer-Led Online Sexual Violence Prevention Strategy (PBPA)

Upon completing the training, participants receive copies of the program tools.

iscover Module 1

Tools

Peer Trainer Training Guide

A guide to help frontline workers, professionals, and teachers implement the PBPA program and train future peer trainers.

Workshop Facilitation Guides

Two guides designed to support peer trainers in facilitating workshops at the high school and elementary levels.

Peer Trainer Reference Cards

Durable cards summarizing workshop steps and key messages to help peer trainers facilitate sessions.

Video Clips

Four short videos used as introductory material for peer-led workshops.

Parent-Youth Discussion Sheets

Four discussion sheets developed to help parents and significant adults continue conversations at home.

Posters

Two posters available to promote the PBPA program in schools and community settings.

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Intervention Toolkit for Addressing Cases of Sexual Exploitation

The Sexual Exploitation Intervention Toolkit and the Youth Intervention Guide were originally developed in 2019 and underwent a comprehensive review in 2022. To date, more than 600 toolkits have been produced and made available to practitioners upon request. The toolkit and guide encompass nearly 30 distinct tools designed to support interventions with youths at risk of or experiencing sexual exploitation.

This project was made possible with the support of the Secrétariat à la jeunesse.

Who is The Toolkit For?

The toolkit is intended for practitioners working with youths who are at risk of or experiencing sexual exploitation.

Objective

To provide practitioners and professionals with a variety of intervention tools that better address the evolving needs of youths experiencing or at risk of sexual exploitation.

Approach and Content

The Intervention Toolkit is based on the cycle of sexual exploitation, developed by the Centre jeunesse de Montréal as part of the Le silence de Cendrillon project (Fleury & Fredette, 2002), which hypothesizes that a young person in a sexual exploitation situation may go through eight distinct stages.

Effective interventions are facilitated by identifying the stage of sexual exploitation the youth is experiencing and selecting appropriate tools accordingly.

For more information, contact us at prevention@marie-vincent.org.

Training

A training program is available for practitioners who wish to explore each tool in detail and learn concrete clinical examples of their use. The training duration and content can be adapted to meet specific needs.

For more information, contact us at prevention@marie-vincent.org.

View the training

Tools

Youth Intervention Guide

Available for download in French and English, the guide includes all intervention tools designed to correspond with the cycle of sexual exploitation.

Intervention Toolkit

The toolkit includes a copy of the Youth Intervention Guide in French and English, along with expanded versions of selected tools from the guide (e.g., puzzle, card game, etc.).

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Delicate Spots Web Game

Delicate Spots is a web-based game designed to teach prevention of sexual violence among youths. Using an interactive storytelling format where players shape their own narrative, the game explores topics related to sexuality, including first experiences and sexual violence.

The game consists of five scenarios following a group of teenagers during a night out with friends; players experience the consequences of their choices in a safe and controlled environment.

This project is made possible with the support of Secrétariat à la jeunesse.

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Who is Delicate Spots for?

The game is intended for all teenagers and is designed to be played with the guidance of an adult who can facilitate the activity and lead discussions that encourage critical thinking.

Objectives

Marie-Vincent uses this engaging and innovative tool for sex education and teaching prevention of sexual violence among teenagers. Since the game covers sensitive topics such as violence and sexual exploitation, resource links for support services are always accessible within the interface.

Approach & content

We recommend integrating one or more game scenarios into educational activities related to sex education.

Each of the five scenarios takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete. When used alongside the instructive activities provided in the facilitation guide, each scenario requires about 75 minutes to cover fully.

Key themes

First sexual experiences
Sharing intimate images and pornography
Consent
Reporting sexual violence and seeking help
Sexual exploitation

For more information, contact us at prevention@marie-vincent.org.

Training

A 90-minute training session is available at no cost to help school staff become familiar with the game mechanics, scenarios, and facilitation techniques. This training also provides strategies and guidelines on how to respond if a young person discloses sexual violence. Participants receive additional tools after completing the training.

Participant
feedback

« Fantastic tool! »

« A meaningful link between the sex education program and the different scenarios. »

« A thorough explanation of each scenario’s themes. »

« Interactive, concise, and relevant training! »

Tools

Le guide d’accompagnement

Le guide d’accompagnement vise à soutenir les intervenant·e·s, professionnel·le·s et enseignant·e·s qui souhaitent intégrer un ou plusieurs scénarios du jeu web d’éducation à la sexualité Zones sensibles à leurs activités pédagogiques.

Autocollants promotionnels

Affiches promotionnelles

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Heads or Tails: Preventing Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking

Launched in 2023, the Heads or Tails project is a proactive prevention initiative designed to address the specific needs of adolescents aged 12 to 17 who are at high risk of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. The project aims to broaden knowledge and improve the skills of both adults and youths thus fostering their empowerment. By focusing on strengthening self-esteem and promoting egalitarian relationships, Heads or Tails equips young people with essential knowledge and skills while providing concrete prevention tools for professionals.

This project is made possible by the support of the Secrétariat à la condition féminine and the Secrétariat à la jeunesse.

View the project presentation sheet

Who is Heads or Tails for?

Heads or Tails is designed for professionals and youths at risk of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. More specifically, the project targets professionals who:

Work with youths aged 12 to 17
Operate within the health and social services network or youth community organizations
Wish to implement the Heads or Tails project in their professional setting

The project also directly supports at-risk youths, particularly:

Those in the care of the health and social services network
Those frequenting community-based youth organizations

A customized version of Heads or Tails is also available for schools to meet their specific needs. This adaptation allows for a more universal prevention approach for youths aged 12 to 17 while updating school staff on the realities of sexual exploitation and human trafficking

Objectives

The Heads or Tails project provides a safe space for discussions with young people and an environment that broadens their knowledge and skills to prevent sexual exploitation and human trafficking.

Help them understand the realities of sexual exploitation and human trafficking (definitions, recruitment scenarios, etc.)
Encourage self-reflection on key topics such as self-esteem, self-awareness, and assertiveness
Promote critical thinking about healthy and egalitarian relationships

Approach and Content

The Heads or Tails project is a prevention initiative that fosters discussions and reflection between at-risk youths and the professionals who support them.

Training
The project begins with two training modules for professionals to deepen their knowledge of sexual exploitation and human trafficking and to develop best practices for supporting at-risk youths.

Workshops
The project includes six 90-minute workshops covering key topics related to preventing sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Professionals who have completed the two training modules are equipped with tools to facilitate the following workshops:

Self-awareness, assertiveness, and self-esteem
Egalitarian relationships in romantic, family, and friendship contexts
Recruitment scenarios and protective strategies

These workshops involve short film screenings, guided discussions, and individual reflection activities in a personal journal to help youths engage in self-exploration.

Heads or Tails in School Settings

The Heads or Tails adaptation for schools consists of a 3.5-hour training session designed for all school staff members (special education technicians, psychoeducators, sexologists, teachers, etc.) who are comfortable addressing the issues of sexual exploitation and human trafficking with students.

Topics covered in this training include:

Sexual exploitation and human trafficking of adolescents
Identifying risk factors and vulnerability indicators
Effective approaches to prevent sexual exploitation and human trafficking of adolescents
Responding to disclosures of sexual violence in group or individual settings

Additionally, this training provides tools to facilitate prevention activities and better recognize risk factors in young people.

Training

Module 1 : Understanding Sexual Exploitation, Human Trafficking, and Best Prevention Practices

Module 2 : Implementing Heads or Tails in My Professional Setting

After completing the training, participants receive copies of the prevention tools.

Discover Module 1

Training : Preventing Sexual Exploitation and Human Trafficking of Adolescents

After completing the training, participants receive copies of the prevention tools.

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Tools

Guide d’animation

Le guide d’animation a pour objectif de soutenir les intervenant·e·s et les professionnel·le·s souhaitant implanter le projet Pile ou face auprès des jeunes à risque. Il détaille les différentes activités à animer auprès des jeunes, le déroulement des rencontres et les conditions de réussite.

Journal de bord

Le journal de bord a pour objectif d’accompagner et d’encourager les jeunes participant·e·s au projet Pile ou face dans leurs réflexions. Il contient l’ensemble des activités proposées à travers les 6 ateliers du projet.

Court-métrage Pile ou face

Le court-métrage sert de fil conducteur permettant d’illustrer les différentes thématiques abordées à travers les 6 ateliers du projet. Divisé en 3 épisodes, on suit un groupe de 4 jeunes durant une soirée. Ces jeunes échangent, se disputent, s’affirment et se soutiennent.

Jeu de cartes Mythe ou Réalité

Mythe ou Réalité est un jeu de 17 cartes-énoncés visant à accroître la connaissance des intervenant·e·s et des jeunes sur l’exploitation sexuelle et la traite de personnes.

Jouer

Autocollants avec code QR

Permet un accès rapide et facile aux ressources disponibles pour les jeunes et pour les intervenant·e·s.

Fiche pédagogique – jeu de cartes Mythe ou Réalité

Cette fiche peut être utilisée par tout le personnel du milieu scolaire désirant animer une activité de prévention de l’exploitation sexuelle et de traite de personnes auprès d’élèves au secondaire. Il est possible de réaliser le jeu de carte Mythe ou Réalité de plusieurs façons, selon le contexte ou le type d’intervention désirée. La fiche présente les différentes modalités possibles, avec la version papier ou électronique, ainsi que l’animation auprès des jeunes, soit en grand groupe, en sous-groupe, ou en individuel.

Grille d’observation des facteurs de vulnérabilité ou des situations à risque chez les jeunes

La grille d’observation peut être utilisée par le personnel scolaire afin d’observer si un jeune est à risque de se trouver en situation d’exploitation sexuelle ou de traite de personnes.

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Voies Project

The Voies Project was developed to address the pressing need for sexual violence prevention initiatives for children requiring additional support—a particularly vulnerable group. With funding from the Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation, the Lanterne program was adapted and new tools created through the Voies Project. These resources are specifically designed for children aged 4 to 12 who have cognitive and/or communication challenges due to mild intellectual disability (ID), autism with mild support needs, or developmental language disorder (DLD).

In Québec, 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys are victims of sexual violence before the age of 18. For children with intellectual disabilities, the risk is nearly four times higher. The actual prevalence of sexual violence among this group is likely underestimated.

(Daigneault et al., 2023 ; Jones et al., 2012)

“Creating pathways to see and hear children with additional support needs in order to prevent sexual violence.”

Who is Voies For?

Children aged 4 to 12 with additional support needs, including those with cognitive and/or communication challenges due to mild intellectual disability (ID), autism with mild support needs, or developmental language disorder (DLD).
Professionals working with these children.
Adults in their support network.

Objectives

Well-being and safety: Addressing the specific needs of children requiring additional support.
Psychosexual development: Gaining a deeper understanding of developmental stages and challenges.
Adapted intervention: Providing effective tools and strategies for appropriate intervention.
Knowledge of sexual violence: Understanding key concepts and the impact on children.
Common intervention framework: Aligning the practices of support teams.
Best practices: Responding appropriately to disclosures and reports of violence.
Safe environments: Creating conditions that support the successful implementation of the project.

Approach and Content

Research confirms the importance of teaching protection skills to children requiring additional support. Helping them establish clear boundaries for appropriate behaviours in different situations and with various individuals is essential.

The Voies Project follows a socio-ecological approach, engaging all key actors in a child’s environment. This model fosters collaboration between different settings in the child’s life, coordination among multidisciplinary teams, and respect for the rights of children requiring additional support.

The Voies tools are practical, simple, and interactive. Based on a rigorous needs analysis, they include adaptable activities to support sexual violence prevention, engaging playful learning experiences tailored to children’s needs, and visual supports for everyday use.

Voies Training

This 6.5-hour training program is designed for professionals and frontline workers. It covers best practices in sexual violence prevention, as well as key components of sexuality and psychosexual development in children requiring additional support.

Learn more about the training

Tools

Voies Guide

A guide for professionals and frontline workers providing tools and clear guidelines for disclosures and reporting of sexual violence. It addresses healthy, concerning, and problematic sexual behaviours as well as preferred interventions.

Children’s Book

A children’s book set in a school context that addresses assertiveness and interpersonal boundaries.

Activity Guide

A workbook for professionals and practitioners, gathering structured and sequenced activity ideas to conduct with children. It is organized by theme and according to different stages of child development. Some activities involve the use of the children’s book.

Visual Supports

A collection of visuals to be used particularly during activities. It contains a decision tree, cards, illustrated sequences, and pictograms. This is a tool for professionals and practitioners to facilitate daily communication.

Video Capsules

Three awareness capsules for parents that deconstruct myths about sex education and sexual violence prevention for children with additional support needs.

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Compass Project

Compass is a sexual violence prevention training program designed for children aged 6 to 12 and the adults in their lives. The initiative aims to prevent sexual violence through sex education and the promotion of healthy, egalitarian relationships.

Thanks to financial support from the Public Health Agency of Canada, Compass is available free of charge to community and recreational sector professionals. A toolkit is provided to all trained organizations.

Who is Compass for?

Children aged 6 to 12
Camp managers, coordinators, frontline staff, and activity leaders
Community and recreational sector professionals
Parents

Objectives

Develop a better understanding of child sexual violence and the importance of prevention through sex education and the promotion of healthy, egalitarian relationships.
Learn to use the Compass tools effectively.
Reflect on one’s knowledge, practices, attitudes, and beliefs regarding sex education and the promotion of egalitarian relationships.
Identify daily opportunities to incorporate sex education and promote healthy relationships for children aged 6 to 12.
Understand the basics of Québec’s Youth Protection Act.
Develop analytical skills and intervention strategies for responding to sexual behaviour problems and children’s disclosures of sexual violence.

Approach and Content

The Compass project is designed for use in various cultural settings. It is based on an inclusive approach that emphasizes equality and diversity and a socioecological perspective that encourages the involvement of all adults in a child’s life. Compass is also trauma-informed, using practices that strengthen children’s resilience while ensuring interventions do not cause additional psychological harm.

The content is based on best practices for responding to disclosures and reporting cases to the Director of Youth Protection (DYP), while taking into account the psychosexual development of children and intervention on healthy and problematic sexual behaviours. Compass also helps to better understand sexual violence, its prevalence, forms, signs to watch for, and techniques used by perpetrators. Finally, Compass incorporates best practices for educating children about sexuality in an age-appropriate way and promoting healthy, egalitarian relationships.

Compass Training Programs

Nine-hour training course divided into three modules, available online or in person

Learn more about the training

90-minute self-paced e-learning module

Learn more about the training

Tools

Jeu des 7 familles

Les noms des familles dans ce jeu sont inspirés de la Convention relative aux droits de l’enfant des Nations Unies. Chaque famille représente un droit fondamental des enfants, soulignant l’importance de l’égalité et de la justice, peu importe l’origine, la religion, la langue ou la situation familiale de l’enfant. Ce jeu aide les enfants à comprendre et à revendiquer leurs droits pour survivre, vivre, se développer, s’épanouir et réaliser leur plein potentiel.

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Atlas Boussole

L’Atlas Boussole s’adresse aux intervenant·e·s et aux professionnel·le·s, c’est un outil conçu pour aborder avec les enfants de 6 à 12 ans le sujet de la sexualité ainsi que les relations saines et égalitaires par l’entremise de la discussion, du jeu et de chansons.

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Jeu Marvin, serpents et échelles

Le jeu Marvin, serpents et échelles est un jeu de réflexion sur les relations saines et égalitaires, adapté du jeu classique. Il existe une version pour les 6-9 ans et une autre pour les 10-12 ans.

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Guide Boussole

Ce guide s’adresse aux intervenant·e·s et aux professionnel·le·s, il propose des balises pour l’analyse, l’intervention et le signalement, tout en fournissant des repères face à la violence sexuelle et aux comportements sexuels des enfants.

Guide d’animation Atelier-Cyber

Ce guide s’adresse aux intervenant·e·s et aux professionnel·le·s, il est conçu pour prévenir la cyberviolence sexuelle auprès des jeunes de 10 à 12 ans, offrant des stratégies et des outils pour aborder ce sujet délicat.

Capsules vidéo

Les capsules vidéo visent à fournir aux parents des moyens concrets pour promouvoir des relations saines et égalitaires ainsi que l’éducation à la sexualité, tout en leur permettant d’être des modèles pour leurs enfants. Elles offrent également des connaissances sur la violence sexuelle et encouragent les parents à développer les habiletés de protection de leurs enfants.

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Lantern Program

Launched in 2019, Lantern aims to prevent sexual violence against children aged 0 to 5 by empowering the adults around them, including parents and early childhood professionals, with the necessary tools.

This program focuses on sex education and the promotion of egalitarian relationships specifically adapted to the developmental levels of young children. It is also aligned with the existing sex education curriculum in Quebec’s primary and secondary schools.

Lantern is made possible by financial support from the Ministère de la Famille, via the Committee for Continuing Education and Professional Development of Home-Based Educational Childcare Providers (RSGE), as well as from the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Who is Lantern For?

The Lantern program is specifically designed for:

Children aged 0 to 5
Early childhood professionals working with children in this age group (educators and staff in childcare centres, family-based educational daycares, drop-in daycares, and community organizations)
Adults in the lives of young children

Objectives

Lantern aims to create a safe and protective environment for young children by focusing on the following goals:

Strengthening the capacity of early childhood professionals to prevent sexual violence against young children.
Educating children about sexuality, in a way that is adapted to their level of development, helping them recognize and prevent abusive behaviours.
Promoting egalitarian relationships: teaching children from an early age about respectful and balanced interactions.

Approach and Content

The program is designed to increase children’s safety and facilitate disclosure.
The learning process focuses on anatomy, sexual violence, and protective skills, such as speaking to a trusted adult.

To effectively support young children, the content must:

Target multiple audiences, particularly the adults around them (parents and educators).
Be age-appropriate, using clear and accessible language.
Use concrete and simple terms, avoiding abstract concepts like safety, freedom, secrets, intuition, and rights.
Be delivered over multiple sessions with repetition of key concepts.
Be interactive and engaging.

Tools

Because young children develop at their own pace across different areas, Lantern offers a diverse range of educational tools for children, parents, and professionals. These resources are designed to reach as many children as possible based on their interests and abilities.

Cahier parent-enfant « Parler de sexualité avec les enfants pour mieux les protéger »

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Cahier-causerie « Dis-moi tout, Marvin »

sur comment parler de sexualité de manière adaptée aux jeunes enfants. Il s’agit d’un outil de discussion conçu pour aborder tout ce que les enfants de 0 à 5 ans devraient savoir sur la sexualité.

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Livret des émotions « Comment te sens-tu, Marvin? »

pour aider les enfants de 1 à 3 ans à reconnaître les émotions de base, tout en introduisant des notions d’affirmation de soi et d’adulte de confiance. Dans cet outil, une attention particulière a également été portée à normaliser toutes les émotions pour tous les enfants, peu importe leur genre.

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Lantern Training Programs

A six-hour training course, available online or in person.

For more information or to book a session, contact formation@marie-vincent.org

Learn more about the training

Participant
Testimonials

« The material provided was truly amazing. These are great tools, and the trainer was very engaging. I loved everything about this training. »

« This training should be mandatory and integrated into every educational program, just like healthy lifestyle habits, good manners, and hygiene. It’s also a great way to build stronger relationships with parents. »

Training for Professionals in the Socio-judicial Sector

Marie-Vincent is proud to offer training sessions and resources each year to thousands of professionals working in the socio-judicial sector. Your role in the field is crucial in supporting children who are victims of sexual violence and their families as they navigate the socio-judicial process.

Who Are These Training Sessions For?

Our training sessions and tools are designed for:

Law enforcement agents
Investigators
Youth Protection (DYP) workers
Judiciary professionals
Prosecutors

Medico-legal professionals
Victim support organizations
Lawyers
Legal aid
Community organizations in the socio-judicial sector
And mor

Training Sessions

Discover our specialized training programs.

Supporting Child Victims of Sexual Violence and Their Families Through the Socio-judicial Process

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Supporting Child Victims of Sexual Violence and Their Families Through the Socio-judicial Process (2h — Paid)

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Supporting Child Victims of Sexual Violence and Their Families Through the Socio-judicial Process (7h)

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Basic Knowledge on Sexual Violence Against Youth and Its Consequences

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Basic Knowledge on Sexual Violence Against Youth and Its Consequences (Non-Members)

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Non-Suggestive Interviewing Using the NICHD Protocol

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Tools

Livre Un pas à la fois avec Lou

L’album illustré suit le personnage de Lou à travers son expérience sociojudiciaire, du dévoilement de la violence sexuelle subie jusqu’à la fin de la trajectoire. Cet outil reflète, à l’aide d’une vulgarisation adaptée aux capacités des enfants, les différentes étapes du processus sociojudiciaire et peut être utilisé par l’ensemble des professionnel·le·s du secteur qui accompagnent l’enfant victime de violence sexuelle et ses proches tout au long de la trajectoire.

Livre audio Un pas à la fois avec Lou (eBook)

Le livre audio permet de suivre l’histoire de Lou dans un autre format et de la rendre accessible pour un plus grand nombre d’enfants victimes de violence sexuelle et de proches.

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Animation 2D du livre Un pas à la fois avec Lou

Laissez-vous porter par la voix de notre porte-parole, Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin, dans cette animation 2D du livre Un pas à la fois avec Lou qui fait vivre l’histoire de Lou de manière plus dynamique!

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Guide d’accompagnement Un pas à la fois avec Lou (PDF) et ses activités complémentaires

Il s’agit d’un outil clé en main et complémentaire à la lecture du livre Un pas à la fois avec Lou ou au visionnement de l’animation 2D du livre. Il permet aux professionnel·le·s de travailler plus en profondeur, à travers quatre activités proposées à l’enfant, certains messages clés et de renforcer la compréhension et les compétences de l’enfant victime.

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Trajectoire sociojudiciaire

Cet outil illustre, de façon simplifiée, les étapes principales par lesquelles l’enfant victime de violence sexuelle et ses proches doivent passer. Il permet également de mettre de l’avant toutes les étapes par lesquelles l’enfant peut être amené·e à devoir répéter son récit et être exposé·e, par le fait même, à un risque de victimisation secondaire.

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Conditions essentielles de la concertation

Cet outil est un aide-mémoire qui reprend les conditions essentielles à une bonne concertation qui font partie de l’entente multisectorielle avec des exemples concrets pour les professionnel·le·s du secteur sociojudiciaire.

Prendre soin de soi

Ce coffre à outils propose des autosoins qui peuvent être utilisés au quotidien par les professionnel·le·s qui accompagnent l’enfant victime et ses proches dans la trajectoire sociojudiciaire pour prévenir le trauma vicariant ou la fatigue de compassion.

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« I really appreciated that the training addressed vicarious trauma and mental health for professionals in the system. »

« I learned a lot about child and family psychology and secondary victimization. »

« The training gave me several strategies with which to address children’s avoidance and helped me realize the suggestibility risks in my interviews! »

« The refresher training was a necessary reminder of the objectives of each step in the protocol and the risks associated with certain types of questions during our interviews. »

Training for Education Professionals

Marie-Vincent is proud to offer training sessions and resources each year to thousands of professionals in the education sector. Your role is essential in properly responding to disclosures of sexual violence and effectively developing intervention plans for children with sexual behaviour problems (PSB).

This training offering is made possible through the financial contribution of the Department of Education of Québec.

Who Are These Training Sessions For?

Our training sessions and tools are designed for:

Teachers
Special education teachers
Pedagogical advisors
Childcare staff
Psychoeducators
Psychologists

Sexologists
School administrators
Rehabilitation and adaptation counselors
School nurses
Social workers
Development officers
And more

Training for Elementary School Staff

Discover our live, online, and on-demand training sessions.

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Tools

Vidéo « Le dévoilement d’une agression sexuelle en contexte scolaire » (9 min 33)

Une capsule vidéo résumant les étapes pour accueillir un dévoilement d’agression sexuelle en milieu scolaire.

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9 capsules de mobilisation des formations scolaires

Des bandes annonces promouvant nos formations pour le personnel scolaire primaire (Les comportements sexualisés problématiques et le dévoilement d’agression sexuelle en milieu scolaire et Intervenir face à des comportements sexualisés et lors d’un dévoilement d’agression sexuelle en milieu scolaire).

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Fiche aide-mémoire de signalement de Marie-Vincent

Un outil indiquant les informations à transmettre à la DPJ lors d’un signalement à la suite d’un dévoilement d’agression sexuelle ou d’un comportement sexualisé problématique en milieu scolaire à la DPJ.

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Training for Secondary School Staff

Do you work in a high school? Explore the training sessions offered as part of our teen prevention programs.

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« The content equips us to intervene in situations involving sexual behaviour problems. The tools provided are practical and easily applicable in a school context. »

« The training clearly differentiates between healthy vs inappropriate behaviours in a school setting, as well as concerning versus problematic behaviours, helping us better structure our interventions. It gives us more confidence in our responses and encourages proactive action. »

« The training provides a concrete intervention approach along with tools and strategies that can be easily applied in a school setting. »

Training for Healthcare and Social Services Professionals

Marie-Vincent is proud to offer training sessions, webinars, and resources each year to thousands of professionals in the healthcare and social services network. Your work with children and their families is essential in providing them with support and guidance through an approach tailored to their needs.

This training offering is made possible through the financial contribution of Santé Québec.

Who Are These Training Sessions For?

Our training sessions and tools are designed for:

Social workers
Psychoeducators
Psychologists
Social service workers
Nurses

Human relations officers
Coordinators
Special education teachers
Sexologists
And more

Training

Discover our training programs, their objectives, approaches and content.

Learn More

Tools

Video

Parler d’agression sexuelle avec un enfant (6 min 40)

Une capsule vidéo présentant, par le biais d’une mise en situation, les éléments à considérer pour aborder la violence sexuelle avec un enfant.

Video

Le triangle cognitif expliqué aux jeunes victimes de violence sexuelle (4 min 20)

Une capsule vidéo résumant les stratégies d’adaptation et de restructuration cognitive pouvant amener l’enfant à réfléchir à ses pensées pour éventuellement pouvoir les modifier.

Video

Le développement psychosexuel chez les enfant (7 min 47)

Une capsule résumant les notions relatives à la sexualité et aux stades de développement psychosexuel des enfants et des adolescent·e·s.

View Videos

« This training is highly relevant for anyone working closely or indirectly with children and their families. It greatly improves understanding of this pressing issue and enhances intervention skills. »

« Interactive, dynamic, and content-rich! »

« This was my first training with Marie-Vincent, and I loved my experience. I’ve already recommended it—even before completing the second part. »

Individual Donors

Your support can make a crucial difference in the lives of young victims of sexual violence. By supporting our mission, you help provide, under one roof, the essential services that allow these young people — who have been through the unimaginable — to rediscover hope.

Join us in building a future where every child can heal, thrive, and reach their full potential.

Make a One-Time Donation

Every donation, no matter the amount, helps make a meaningful difference in the lives of young victims of sexual violence.

To ensure you receive a tax credit, an official tax receipt will be issued to you.

Make a one-time donation

Make a Monthly Donation

Every donation, no matter the amount, helps make a meaningful difference in the lives of young victims of sexual violence.

To ensure you receive a tax credit, an official tax receipt will be issued to you.

Make a monthly donation

Make a Planned Gift

A planned gift is a philanthropic gesture that is anticipated and organized in advance, taking into account your financial, tax, and estate situation. This approach allows you to bring your philanthropic aspirations to life while considering your personal and family circumstances.

By making a planned gift, your commitment today shapes the future of our organization and offers tangible hope to future generations.

Our recommendation: Before making a planned gift, and to learn more about the many tax benefits available (both for yourself and your estate), consult a financial professional or notary.

Planned gifts can take several forms:

Bequest

A bequest is a testamentary gift that allows you to leave the Foundation a fixed amount, a percentage of your estate, or assets such as furniture or works of art upon your death, while protecting your loved ones.

Securities Donation

A gift of securities is made in the form of publicly traded financial instruments, which may offer tax advantages by avoiding capital gains tax.

Fill out the form

Life Insurance Policy Donation

By designating Fondation Marie-Vincent as the beneficiary of your life insurance policy, you ensure future support for our mission while benefiting from tax advantages.

Registered Asset Donation (RRSP or RRIF)

You may also designate the Foundation as the beneficiary of your RRSP or RRIF, which can reduce the taxes payable by your estate.

Organize an Event

Become an ambassador and organize your own fundraiser! Your enthusiasm, commitment, and generosity will shine a light on our mission within the community!

Discover other events organized for Marie-Vincent.

Host a Facebook Fundraiser

Mobilize your community and loved ones by encouraging them to support our cause and help more young people who have been through the unimaginable to rediscover hope.

Make a Donation in Honour or in Memory of a Loved One

Dedicate your gift to someone special or in memory of a loved one, while helping to support more young people.

Make a donation

Shop Marie-Vincent Merchandise

Treat yourself or find a gift with our Marie-Vincent branded items, such as stuffed animals, water bottles, and socks. Your purchase will directly support our mission.

Shop now

Become a Volunteer

Volunteering at Marie-Vincent also means helping to raise awareness of our cause and mission. Whether it’s helping with mailings, at our fundraising events, or any other activity held without the presence of youth (out of respect for confidentiality), you can help us build a protective community!

Become a volunteer

Our Allies

Thank you for helping us build a world free of violence against children and youth

Public Funders

Discretionary Funds and Volunteer Action Support

Gilles Bélanger, Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Affairs | Martine Biron, Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women | Benoit Charette, Minister of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks | Bernard Drainville, Minister of Education, Minister Responsible for the Chaudière-Appalaches Region | Christian Dubé, Minister of Health and Social Services | Marie-Belle Gendron, MNA for Châteauguay | Eric Girard, Minister of Finance | Simon Jolin-Barrette, Minister of Justice, Minister Responsible for Canadian Relations | Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture and Communications, Minister Responsible for Youth, Minister Responsible for the Outaouais Region | Andrée Laforest, Minister of Municipal Affairs, Minister Responsible for the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region | François Legault, Premier | Vincent Marissal, MNA for Rosemont | Jean-François Roberge, Minister of Immigration, Francization and Integration, Minister of the French Language, Minister Responsible for Canadian Francophonie, Minister Responsible for Secularism, Minister Responsible for Democratic Institutions, Minister Responsible for Access to Information and the Protection of Personal Information

$100,000 and over

$50,000 – $99,999

$25,000 – $49,999

$10,000 – $24,999

$5,000 – $9,999

$1,000 – $4,999

Goods and Services

« Congratulations to Fondation Marie-Vincent! Through its commitment and rigorous work, it helps children rediscover a happy childhood. »

For all the Maries and the Vincents

Make a donation

Your Impact

In 2024–2025

359

young people benefited from Marie-Vincent’s services

221

parents were supported to strengthen their ability to help their child through the healing process (immediate intervention and parental support)

128

police investigative interviews took place at our premises thanks to our partners

23

medical consultations took place at our premises thanks to our partners

Your donation changes lives by enabling us to:

Prevent and raise awareness through our programs and training for youth and professionals.
Improve access to and ensure the sustainability of our services to support even more young victims of sexual violence.
Create innovative pilot projects, such as our group therapies and family support.
Extend our mission’s reach even further.
Contribute to building a protective community around our youth.

Charity Number | 11892 4091 RR0001

Thank you to our partners and donors

Thanks to your generosity, in 2024–2025 :

$405,000 was raised at the CFO Dinner and Ombré.

More than $30,000 was raised through third-party events.

Since 2011, the Cercle de Marvin has raised more than $500,000.

Some of our major partners:

Fondation Chamandy • Fondation D’Amours • Fondation de la Famille Pathy • Fondation Lucie et André Chagnon • Lucille Lacelle Richard

Find the complete list of donors and partners on our Our Allies page.

Every donation
counts!

« It helped me regain confidence in myself, work through my problems, and stay calm on the inside »

« My son received non-judgmental listening and a wide range of strategies: recognizing his emotions, understanding how to manage them, respecting boundaries around intimacy, and protecting himself. It transformed the way he sees himself and others. »

« As a psychologist at Marie-Vincent, I have the unique privilege of accompanying young people in therapy and witnessing their healing process up close. We work alongside inspiring, strong, and resilient youth. Therapy allows them to leave the story of sexual abuse behind, to continue growing and thriving as best they can, despite the hardships they have faced.” »

See the ways to contribute

Make a donation

How to Respond to Suspicions or Disclosures

Reporting the Situation to the Director of Youth Protection (DYP)

You do not need to be certain or have proof to make a report. If you have concerns based on a child’s disclosures, behaviours, or attitudes, or those of their parents, you can contact the DYP. They will evaluate the situation and determine if measures are required to protect the child.

How to Make a Report?

You can report a situation by contacting the DYP in your region, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The identity of the person making the report remains confidential.

Do I Have an Obligation to Report?

Any person—including parents, professionals working with children, health and social services employees, teachers, childcare workers, and police officers—must report any situation of sexual abuse.

For guidance, refer to the document Making a Report to the DYP is Already Protecting a Child.

Consult the document

What to Do If a Child Confides in You?

Stay calm in front of the child.
Listen to the child openly and without judgment.
Be reassuring.
Tell them they made the right decision by speaking to you about their difficulties.
Let them know that you believe them.
Do not promise to keep their secret.
Do not over-question the child and give them the chance to speak freely. Suggestive questions could influence them.
Write down the child’s words as soon as possible.

A child or adolescent who has experienced sexual violence must feel supported and protected by their parents or other significant adults.

Learn more about how children are referred to Marie-Vincent

How to receive our services

Sexual Behaviour Problems

Sexual behaviour problems are sexual in nature, exhibited by a child, and considered inappropriate based on their age and developmental level. These behaviours can be harmful to the child or to others.

How to differentiate healthy sexual behaviour from problematic behaviour?

Sexual exploration is a healthy behaviour that allows children to discover who they are, what they feel, and what they like. Behaviours are healthy when they occur between children of the same age group, provoke pleasant sensations and emotions, and meet a need for curiosity, exploration, and pleasure.

Certain indicators help determine if a behaviour is problematic:

Difference in age, size, or status
Use of force, threats, or intimidation
Adult sexual behaviours
Physical pain or unpleasant emotions
High frequency of the behaviours
Persistence of the behaviours despite limits imposed by an adult
The notion of secrecy

Consult our article to learn more about sexual behaviours in children

Why does a child exhibit sexual behaviour problems?

Perhaps because they…

Feel curious about sexuality.
Feel excited at the idea of trying something sexual they saw or heard about.
Feel good when engaging in it.
Feel proud because it makes others laugh.
Feel stressed and the sexual behaviours help them relax.
Feel angry and the sexual behaviours help them express themselves.
Feel lonely and the sexual behaviours help them make contact with others.

Some examples of sexual behaviour problems

A child who:

Touches their sexual parts when it is not a good time or place to do so.
Touches the sexual parts of others, and this bothers or harms others.
Asks others to touch their sexual parts.

A child who:

Looks at the sexual parts of others, and this bothers or harms others.
Forces others to look at their own sexual parts, or sexual images or movies.
Observes others when they are naked while they do not know they are being watched.
Takes photos or videos of their sexual parts or the sexual parts of others.

A child who:

Says sexual things that bother or harm others.
Does not stop asking others to do sexual things even if they say “no”.
Kisses like grown-ups who are in love.

Discover how Marie-Vincent helps children with sexual behaviour problems

Discover

The Consequences of Sexual Violence

Sexual violence, even without physical contact, leads to devastating consequences for children and adolescents.

In the short term, young victims of sexual violence can suffer from significant emotional, psychological, and physical health problems. Severe repercussions can also manifest in multiple areas of functioning, including adaptation and interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, cognition, memory, neurological functions, mood, behavior, attention, attachment, and impulse control.

Emotional and Mental Health Issues

Young victims of sexual violence are significantly more at risk of exhibiting:

Post-traumatic stress symptoms (nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, hypervigilance).
Anxiety symptoms (fear, nervousness, hypersensitivity).
Depression symptoms (bad mood, negative self-evaluation, difficulty experiencing pleasure).
Aggressive behaviors (disrespect, opposition, lying, theft, unjustified aggressive words and gestures toward others, bullying).
Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.
Self-harming behaviors (lacerating skin, severely scratching skin, burning skin).
Symptoms of dissociation and depersonalization (feeling of unreality or disconnection from one’s body).

Academic Problems

Young people who have experienced this type of violence are more likely to:

Have lower academic results.
Drop out of school.

Risky Behaviors

Young people with a history of sexual violence engage more often in risky behaviors such as:

Substance abuse.
Multiple sexual partners (increased risk of sexually transmitted infections).
Exchanging sexual acts to meet needs (housing, money, clothing, transportation).
Aggression and violence in relationships.
Running away (nearly twice as likely).

Young people who have been victims of sexual violence are more at risk of experiencing a teenage pregnancy:

Girls who are victims of sexual assault are 2.2 times more likely than their non-victim peers to become pregnant.
Boys who are victims of sexual assault are more likely than their non-victim peers to cause a pregnancy.

Young victims of sexual violence are more at risk than non-victims to present a series of physical health problems (obesity, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiopulmonary symptoms, diabetes, gynecological problems).

These consequences can lead to major disruptions in the mental development trajectory of young people and often have long-term repercussions, potentially leading to dysfunction and significant distress in adulthood.

No child should live with the consequences of sexual violence.

How to receive our services Discover our resources

Key Facts About Sexual Violence

What is Sexual Violence?

Sexual violence is a broad term that encompasses all forms of physical or psychological violence of a sexual nature, including sexual assault, sexual exploitation, online sexual violence, child luring, juvenile prostitution, pimping and female genital mutilation. Regardless of the form it takes, sexual violence has serious consequences for victims, their loved ones, and society as a whole. It can happen to children and teenagers from all social backgrounds and cultures.

In Québec

50 %

of sexual assault victims are under the age of 18. Of these, 13% are under 5 years old.

1 in 5 girls

report having been victims of sexual violence.

1 in 10 boys

report having been victims of sexual violence.

Statistics on Sexual Violence

More than 25% of teenagers report having taken a nude or sexually suggestive photo of themselves.
Nearly 40% of child victims of sexual assault supported by Marie-Vincent report experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress.
Despite their young age, 65% of children seen at Marie-Vincent are victims of severe sexual assault.
99% of sexual assaults experienced by children at Marie-Vincent were committed by someone they knew. In nearly 75% of cases, the perpetrator was a member of their immediate or extended family.

Sources: Cyr, M. (2014). Les facteurs influençant la révélation. In M. Cyr, Recueillir la parole de l’enfant témoin ou victime. De la théorie à la pratique, p. 7-27, DUNOD, Paris. / Tourigny, M., & Baril, K. (2011). Les agressions sexuelles durant l’enfance. Ampleur et facteurs de risque. In M. Hébert, M. Cyr and M. Tourigny (eds.), Les agressions sexuelles envers les enfants, Volume 1 (p. 7-50). Ste-Foy: Presses de l’Université du Québec.

What is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault includes:

Any act of a sexual nature, with or without physical contact.
An act committed without the victim’s consent or through emotional manipulation or coercion.
An act that subjects a person to another’s desires through an abuse of power, the use of force, coercion, or explicit or implicit threats.
A violation of fundamental rights, including physical or psychological integrity and personal safety.

Sexual assault can involve one or multiple sexual acts, such as:

Touching
Sexual kissing
Masturbation
Oral-genital contact
Penetration or attempted penetration
Other sexual activities
Exhibitionist behaviour
Voyeuristic behaviour

What is Sexual Exploitation?

Sexual exploitation includes various situations where an adult or older teenager takes advantage of a younger child or adolescent for sexual purposes in exchange for some form of gain, whether financial or otherwise. Exploiters often take advantage of the victim’s vulnerability or dependence, using force, power, manipulation, or threats to lure them.

Forms of sexual exploitation include: pimping, human trafficking for sexual exploitation, child and juvenile pornography, online sexual violence, and child luring.

What is Child Luring?

Child luring occurs when a person grooms and manipulates a minor under 18 years old, using the internet or digital technologies, with the intention of committing a sexual assault.

What is Online Sexual Violence?

Online sexual violence is a form of sexual violence that takes place using digital communication technologies, such as the internet, social media, and text messaging. It may involve sexual advances, attempts to obtain sexual favours or relationships, and the dissemination of sexual messages, photos, or videos. Online sexual violence can take different forms.

Cyberstalking

When a victim is harassed through emails, texts, or social media, their online communications are monitored or disrupted, and they feel threatened.

Sextortion

When a young person is blackmailed with the threat of having their sexually explicit images or personal information shared online.

Virtual sexual assault

When a young person is subjected to continuous threats of sexual violence online.

Cyberpredation and online exploitation

When adults or teenagers communicate with children online with the intention of committing a sexual offence.

Non-consensual sharing of intimate images

When intimate images of a person are shared, transmitted, or made accessible to others without their consent, causing a loss of control over the images.

What is female genital mutilation?

Female genital mutilation (FGM) refers to any procedure that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. Terms such as excision, infibulation, and genital cutting are also used to describe these practices. Various types of FGM are performed for cultural or social reasons.

Learn how Marie-Vincent helps young victims of sexual violence

Learn more

Services for professionals

To help build a world free from sexual violence, Marie-Vincent strengthens community capacity by preventing violence, training professionals and supporting organizations that work with young people.

Specialized support and advisory services are offered to professionals who work with children and adolescents.

Advisory services

What are they?

Advisory services aim to provide information on sexual violence (for youth under 18) and sexual behaviour problems (for children under 12).

They also help practitioners identify the most appropriate interventions to implement.

Please note: Advisory services do not include psychotherapy.

Who is this service for?

For practitioners in:

the health and social services network;
community organizations;
police services;
the education and early childhood sector;
professionals in private practice.

How can an appointment be made?

Professionals who want to schedule a telephone appointment must contact Marie-Vincent reception.

Available time slots will be offered.

This is not an emergency service: the callback timeframe may vary between 48 and 72 business hours.

Service modalities

Offered free of charge;
Provided by a psychosocial practitioner;
Generally one to two telephone calls of approximately 30 minutes.

Professional consultation

What is it?

Professional consultation is a short-term support service that helps professionals develop or deepen their knowledge of sexual violence and sexual behaviour problems, and strengthen their assessment and intervention skills, including psychotherapy.

Who is this service for?

For practitioners in:

health and social services;
community organizations;
police services;
the education and early childhood sector
private practices.

How can it be accessed?

This service can be made available following an advisory services appointment, when needs go beyond simple informational support or relate directly to psychotherapy.

In such cases, and with the professional’s consent, the request is forwarded to clinical services coordination, which will arrange a appointment based on team availability.

Service modalities

Offered free of charge;
Provided by a psychotherapist from the clinical team;
Usually one to two calls lasting 45 to 60 minutes;
If needs exceed the scope of the service, the person will be encouraged to seek external supervision.

Good to know

In accordance with the requirements of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec, the professional receiving this service must complete the formal consultation consent form.

This service is distinct from supervision; it does not provide direct guidance for professional practice.

Our partners

Medical services

CHU Sainte-Justine

CISSS de la Montérégie-Est, Montérégie-Ouest and Montérégie-Centre

Montréal Children’s Hospital

CIUSSS Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal

Police services

École nationale de police du Québec

Richelieu–Saint-Laurent Intermunicipal Police Board

Longueuil Agglomeration Police Service

Laval Police Service

Ville de Châteauguay Police Service

Ville de Mercier Police Service

Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM)

Sûreté du Québec

Universities

McGill University

Université de Montréal

Université du Québec à Montréal

Psychosocial services

Batshaw Youth and Family Centres (CIUSSS Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal)

Centre d’intervention en abus sexuels pour la famille (CIASF)

DPJ de la Montérégie

CSSS de la Montagne (CIUSSS Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal)

DPJ de Montréal (CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal)

Sphères Program and its partners

Socio-judicial services

Crime Victims Assistance Centres (CAVAC) of Laval, Montérégie and Montréal

Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions of Montréal and the Western Québec office (Salaberry-de-Valleyfield)

Crime Victims Compensation (IVAC)

First Nations and Inuit

First Nations of Québec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission

Atikamekw Nation Council – Atikamekw Sipi

Services for adolescents

At Marie-Vincent, adolescents aged 12 to 17 who are victims of sexual violence receive specialized services tailored to their needs.

These services are centralized under one roof and provided by a team of professionals, in collaboration with our police, medical, psychosocial and psychotherapeutic partners.

If a child or adolescent confides that they have experienced sexual abuse, we invite you to read the following page:

How to respond in cases of doubt or disclosure

Specialized services to meet adolescents’ needs

The interventions available at Marie-Vincent are tailored to young people’s realities and aim to meet their specific needs.

According to the Marie-Vincent Research Chair, adolescents who have received specialized support generally show:

improved self-esteem
fewer symptoms of anxiety
fewer symptoms of depression
fewer symptoms of post-traumatic stress, including a reduction in avoidance strategies, feelings of guilt and dissociative symptoms

Marie-Vincent also supports adolescents subjected to sexual exploitation

Discover services for adolescent victims of sexual violence

Discover

Discover services for adolescents subjected to sexual exploitation

Discover

Tools for adolescents

Marie-Vincent uses numerous practical and educational tools to help adolescents better understand their emotions, recognize risk situations, and regain a sense of safety.

Online Game

Jeu Zones sensibles

Video

Jusqu’où serais-tu prêt à aller pour des likes?

Vidéo visant à prévenir la cyberviolence sexuelle auprès des jeunes de secondaire 1.

Article

La cyberviolence sexuelle

Discover all tools

Services for children

At Marie-Vincent, we provide specialized services tailored to the needs of child victims of sexual violence and to children under the age of 12 presenting sexual behaviour problems (SBP).

These services are centralized under one roof to ensure an integrated and coherent approach. They are delivered by qualified professionals who make up our clinical team, as well as by partners in the police, medical and socio-judicial sectors.

If a child or adolescent confides that they have experienced sexual abuse, we invite you to see the following page:

How to respond in cases of doubt or disclosure

Services for children

Our interventions are adapted to each child’s profile and needs, whether the child is a victim of sexual violence or presents sexual behaviour problems.

The results observed following specialized interventions carried out at Marie-Vincent, and documented by the Marie-Vincent Research Chair, show that supported children generally demonstrate:

improved self-esteem;
fewer symptoms of anxiety;
fewer symptoms of depression;
a reduction in post-traumatic stress, including decreased avoidance strategies, feelings of guilt and dissociative symptoms.

Explore our specialized services

Support for children who are victims of sexual violence

Explore

Support for children presenting sexual behaviour problems

Explore

Tools for children

Marie-Vincent provides several playful and educational tools designed to help children better understand, express themselves, and heal.

Video

Un pas à la fois avec Lou

Book

Toi comme moi

Toi comme moi s’adresse aux 0 à 2 ans. Cet imagier démontre que les bébés sont tous semblables, peu importe leur sexe. Ils ont des besoins similaires et peuvent partager les mêmes émotions et intérêts.

Fact Sheet

Affiche Comment te sens-tu maintenant?

Discover all tools

Services for families and parents

Sexual violence and sexual behaviour problems have significant impacts not only on young victims, but also on their parents and/or the significant adults in their lives. The support and presence of parents or significant adults play an essential role, forming a genuine safety net for the child or adolescent.

Any parent or significant adult accompanying a young person who is a victim of sexual violence, or a child presenting sexual behaviour problems, can be supported at every stage of the process — from disclosure to the end of the treatment.

Marie-Vincent provides a space for listening and support to parents and/or significant adults to help them manage the challenges associated with these situations. The goal is to equip them so they become protective adults, better prepared to be supportive of their child.

If a child or adolescent confides that they have experienced sexual abuse, we invite you to read the following page:

How to respond in cases of doubt or disclosure

Services for parents and/or significant adults

Immediate intervention

After a service request is completed, psychosocial intervention may be arranged for the parents and/or significant adults concerned. A clinician assesses needs, then recommends appropriate services.

The ensuing encounters make it possible to:

Restore a sense of safety
Learn the impacts of sexual violence
Develop a concrete action plan to boost empowerment
Understand the socio-judicial trajectory (when applicable) and the services provided
Strengthen parenting skills
Explore and discuss the situation
Learn to regulate emotions associated with sexual abuse or sexual behaviour problems
Practice self-care

Parental guidance

The psychosocial and psychotherapeutic services for children include a recurring parental guidance component. This service, provided by the child’s clinician, aims to transmit to parents or accompanying adults the strategies and knowledge worked on in therapy so they can be applied at home.

Parental guidance also helps strengthen communication between parent and child.. This service is designed to help the accompanying adult become more confident and better equipped to be supportive of the child throughout the process and to become the key resource for the child once treatment ends.

Parental guidance may also be provided to parents of adolescents aged 14 and over if the adolescents consent to sharing information and to their parent’s involvement in their psychosocial and psychotherapeutic process.

Support for parents and significant adults

During the child’s treatment, a parent or accompanying adult may experience difficulties of their own regarding the child’s or adolescent’s experience of sexual violence. In such cases, a referral for support services for parents and significant adults may be made by the child’s clinician. A needs assessment is then conducted by a Marie-Vincent psychosocial practitioner to determine and recommend the most appropriate service.

The length of treatment varies according to the needs identified during the assessment. It is provided only while the child is receiving services and is tailored to the specific needs of their situation.

Tools for parents

Marie-Vincent provides numerous tools to help parents prevent sexual violence and address this sensitive topic with young people.

Video

Boussole – Capsule 1 : Questions d’enfants

Article

Bulle et intimité

Article

Discuter avec son ado

Discover all tools

Training for Professionals

Through its various training programs, Marie-Vincent ensures the transfer of knowledge and the development of best practices in the prevention and intervention of sexual violence affecting children and teenagers. Our training programs are designed for professionals working with young people in education, healthcare, social services, early childhood care, community organizations and the socio-judicial sector.

Marie-Vincent is dedicated to empowering professionals with the skills and capacity to build a protective community that prevents sexual violence against children and teenagers.

Each year, Marie-Vincent trains thousands of professionals working with young people across Québec, both in person and online, through live and on-demand sessions.

Our Expertise

Collaboration between Marie-Vincent’s professionals and the researchers at the Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Violence Against Children give us access to the latest scientific research and data, ensuring that our training programs are regularly updated and continuously improved.

Discover the Research Chair

Marie-Vincent’s training programs empower professionals working with children and teens affected by sexual violence, prioritizing their skill development and learning. Based on established adult learning principles, our training encourages participants to engage at their own pace in a welcoming and motivating environment. We utilize a variety of learning strategies, combining theory and hands-on practice through role-playing, exercises, discussions, matching games and problem-solving activities.

Our team of nearly 50 experienced trainers brings together diverse expertise in sexology, criminology, psychotherapy, psychology, social work and more. They dispense both theoretical knowledge and real-world experience working with youth.

Customized Training and Tools for You

Many of our training programs and tools on the prevention and intervention of sexual violence against children and youth are tailored to specific professional sectors. Explore them here:

Health and Social Services

Discover

Education

Discover

Socio-Judicial

Discover

Do you work in the community or early childhood sector?

Learn more about the training opportunities available through our prevention programs.

Discover Our Prevention Programs

Our Training Courses Are Made Possible by Financial Contributions From:

Québec Department of Education
Québec Department of Justice
Santé Québec

In Partnership With:

École nationale de police du Québec (ÉNPQ)
Barreau du Québec
Specialized Court for Sexual Violence and Domestic Violence Cases

Preventing Sexual Violence Against Adolescents

Adolescence is a critical stage of development where young people explore their identity and sexuality. This period is marked by a strong need for acceptance and social belonging, as well as impulsivity and a desire for excitement and independence. Teens frequently use communication technologies, such as apps and messaging platforms, to fulfill those needs—often away from adult supervision. Unfortunately, these factors, combined with technology, make young people more vulnerable to peer influence, manipulation, and, in some cases, sexual victimization.

To effectively prevent sexual violence in all its forms, youths need accurate and high-quality information about sexuality and interpersonal relationships. They also need to be surrounded by trusted adults who can provide support when needed.

More importantly, young people must be actively involved in the development of prevention tools and programs that are relevant to them. Education and awareness activities should further their knowledge, critical thinking skills, and sense of empathy.

Our Prevention Initiatives for Teens

Explore our programs aimed at preventing sexual cyberviolence, sexual violence, and sexual exploitation against adolescents.

Peer-Based Prevention Approach (PBPA)

A program that engages teens in awareness and prevention activities, training them to become ambassadors for the prevention of online sexual violence.

Learn more

Halftime

A project focused on preventing sexual and online sexual violence against youths in sports settings.

Learn more

Delicate Spots — Interactive Web Game

An online game that helps teens recognize and respond in situations of sexual violence, providing them with the tools and resources to protect themselves and others.

Learn more

Heads or Tails

A project aimed at preventing sexual exploitation and human trafficking among at-risk youth. It provides concrete tools and preventive strategies for professionals working with young people.

Learn more

Intervention Toolkit for Youth in Situations of Sexual Exploitation

This comprehensive resource for professionals working with at-risk or sexually exploited youths offers practical tools and intervention strategies.

Learn more

Our Articles on Preventing Sexual Violence Against Teens

Our articles provide practical guidance for parents and significant adults on how to navigate teens’ use of technology. They advocate for open communication and suggest tools for healthy online interactions

Article

Paramètres de confidentialité et de sécurité

De nombreux réseaux sociaux, jeux vidéo et applications sont utilisés par les ados pour entretenir des relations avec leurs ami·e·s et partager leur vie. Apprenez-en plus sur les paramètres de confidentialité et de sécurité.

Article

Le consentement

Le consentement, c’est le fait de donner son accord. Le consentement sexuel, c’est lorsqu’on accepte volontairement et librement de participer à une activité sexuelle.

Article

Discuter avec son ado

Explore our resources

Preventing sexual violence among children aged 0 to 12

Because of their vulnerability, children are particularly at risk of sexual violence. To prevent such violence, it is crucial to introduce simple, concrete, and developmentally appropriate concepts from an early age.

Our goal is to empower the adults in children’s lives by providing training and tools. These resources enable adults to actively participate in preventing sexual violence, start healthy conversations about sexuality, and become trusted figures for children. By integrating these practices, we create a safe and supportive environment where children feel protected.

Additionally, our resources recognize that children develop at different paces across various areas. It is important to reinforce learning through diverse methods to reach as many children as possible based on their interests and abilities.

Our Prevention Programs for Children

Designed for children aged 0 to 12, as well as the adults and professionals in their lives, our prevention projects focus on age-appropriate sex education and the promotion of healthy, egalitarian relationships.

Lantern Program

Prevention for toddlers aged 0 to 5.

Learn more

Compass Project

Prevention for children aged 6 to 12.

Learn more

Voies Project

Prevention for children aged 4 to 12 who need additional support.

Learn more

Tools for Prevention of Sexual Violence

Through books and games, children can learn to recognize and express their emotions, identify private body parts, and recognize inappropriate situations and behaviours.

Book

Marvin a disparu

Marvin a disparu est un album qui fait réfléchir sur les relations égalitaires entre les sexes à travers l’histoire de Justine qui cherche son ours Marvin qui a disparu.

Fact Sheet

Affiche Les parties de mon corps

Article

Bulle et intimité

Discover our tools

Preventing Sexual Violence

Marie-Vincent plays a key role in preventing sexual violence against children and adolescents by teaching them prevention methods as well as raising awareness among parents, professionals, and the general public.

Our Expertise

Our prevention programs are based on evidence-based educational approaches, including the ecological model, which considers multiple factors influencing youth development and behaviour. This holistic approach enables us to offer diverse learning strategies, combining theory with practical applications such as role-playing, exercises, discussions, association games and problem-solving activities.

Our prevention team consists of experienced professionals with expertise in sexology, criminology, psychotherapy, psychology, social work and more. Having extensive experience working with children and youths, they deliver both theoretical and practical knowledge to empower individuals and communities in effectively preventing sexual violence.

Our collaboration with the Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Child Sexual Abuse gives us access to the latest data and scientific research. This synergy allows us to regularly update and enhance our prevention tools and programs.

How Can Sexual Violence Be Prevented?

Preventing sexual violence begins with education on healthy sexuality and egalitarian, respectful relationships.

Sex education can begin at an early age. Using the correct terms for sexual body parts is essential. Words like peepee or buns reflect discomfort in talking about sex. Teaching children the proper vocabulary helps them express themselves clearly and be understood, especially if they ever need to disclose a problematic situation. Sex education should be incorporated into a child’s overall learning and adapted to their age and level of development.

It is important to answer children’s questions about sex. Curiosity about this topic is natural throughout life. Young people want to explore, understand, and learn. From an early age, questions like “Where do babies come from?” or “Why do girls have a vulva and boys have a penis?” are common. When children ask these questions, it is an opportunity to address the topic in an age-appropriate manner. As they grow, their questions become more complex, and the adults around them should continue to be trusted sources of information. Open discussions about sex help create a climate of trust that should be maintained throughout childhood and adolescence.

Assertiveness is essential for the healthy development of children and adolescents. It is the ability to express one’s thoughts, emotions, and needs clearly and respectfully while recognizing and respecting others’ boundaries. From a young age, children should be encouraged to assert themselves, set healthy boundaries, and understand that their opinions and desires are valid. By reinforcing assertiveness, we arm young people with tools to protect themselves, uphold their personal boundaries, and engage in balanced and respectful interactions. This skill is crucial not only for their personal development but also for preventing sexual violence and fostering egalitarian relationships throughout their lives.

Teaching children about egalitarian relationships helps them develop healthy, respectful interpersonal connections and achieve their full potential. In the long term, it is a protective factor against sexual violence. An egalitarian relationship is one in which both individuals feel safe, comfortable, and free to be themselves. Whether it is a friendship, family relationship, romantic or intimate connection, an egalitarian relationship is based on trust, communication, active listening, and respect. As an adult, you already engage in daily actions that convey equality and help break down gender stereotypes. Through conversations with young people, you can also help them recognize how societal stereotypes influence their daily lives, behaviours, and relationships.

From a young age, children are influenced by stereotypes found in books, toys, media, and the adults around them. They tend to imitate these stereotypes to conform to what they see and know. Hypersexualized models for girls and dominant, hyper-masculine models for boys can lead young people to adopt risky behaviours and unhealthy power dynamics in relationships. Moreover, unrealistic beauty standards, such as the expectation for girls to be very thin or boys to be muscular, can impact young people’s self-esteem. Educating children about egalitarian relationships includes challenging and dismantling harmful gender stereotypes.

A trusted adult can make all the difference in preventing sexual violence. It is essential for young people to be able to identify such adults and understand that concerns can safely be shared with them. Adults must also be trained and equipped to fully take on this role by providing a secure environment and ongoing support.

Children (0-12 years old)

Children are particularly vulnerable, which is why our programs focus on implementing preventive measures to protect them from sexual violence. The most effective way to ensure their safety is by providing healthy sex education and promoting egalitarian relationships.

Discover our programs

Adolescents (12-17 years old)

Adolescents face unique challenges when it comes to technology and socialization. Our initiatives focus on preventing sexual exploitation, sexual violence, and online sexual violence in various settings.

Discover our programs

Our Sexual Violence Prevention Tools

We offer a wide range of resources to support our sexual violence prevention efforts, including books, podcasts, posters, articles and more.

Printable Game

Marvin’s Snake and Ladders

Article

Règles à la maison et gestion des conflits

Article

Les applications populaires chez les jeunes

Les applications se développent à une vitesse souvent déconcertante pour les parents. Découvrez les fonctionnalités et les risques associés aux applications les plus populaires chez les jeunes.

Discover our tools

The Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair in Child Sexual Abuse

Cutting-edge expertise in sexual violence for 20 years

Since its creation in 2005, the Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair has established itself as a pillar of expertise in Québec in the prevention, detection, and intervention for young victims of sexual violence and children with sexual behaviour problems.

The Research Chair is led by university professors and researchers specializing in the services provided at Marie-Vincent.

Did you know?

Marie-Vincent is the only child and youth advocacy centre in Canada that funds its own research chair!

Since 2010, researchers from the Chair and Marie-Vincent staff have met regularly to discuss research projects and initiatives related to sexual violence against youth. The 100th meeting took place in June 2024.

Mission of the Research Chair

Develop high-level Québec-based expertise in the prevention, detection, and treatment of sexual violence against children and adolescents.

Impact of the Research Chair

For youth and their families

The Research Chair ensures that Marie-Vincent’s specialized services remain at the cutting edge of scientific knowledge and best practices. By documenting the interventions provided, our clinical team can continuously improve its approach to offer more effective support tailored to the needs of youth.

For the community

The Chair is a true incubator for innovation, both in terms of expertise and the projects led by Marie-Vincent. By sharing its research results, it strengthens the understanding and prevention of sexual violence, thereby contributing to building a protective community.

For professionals

The Chair contributes to the evolution of practices in sexual violence and the development of cutting-edge knowledge throughout Québec and internationally. It helps identify promising approaches for preventing sexual violence, trains a high-level clinical and scientific successor generation (students, researchers, and practitioners), and creates new courses and training programs on sexual violence in Québec’s universities.

Objectives of the Research Chair

Increase knowledge that will allow practitioners and partners of Marie-Vincent to develop specialized services and improve the quality of services for victims of sexual violence (ages 0-17) and their families, as well as for children under 12 with sexual behaviour problems. Specifically, the Chair enables Marie-Vincent to develop specialized tools, practice guides, or intervention protocols and innovative prevention practices.

Share research results concerning the nature and consequences of sexual assault, the evaluation of specialized prevention and intervention services offered by Marie-Vincent and its partners, and their impact on youth to ensure the evolution of practices and the development of cutting-edge knowledge.

Train a high-level successor generation that benefits from an exceptional research environment due to its proximity to Marie-Vincent and its services.

Enable Marie-Vincent to exercise leadership in the development of specialized services and cutting-edge training.

Research Areas

Identify the profiles of children, parents, and adolescents who benefit from Marie-Vincent’s services.
Evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of different services offered and psychosocio-judicial trajectories.
Evaluate Marie-Vincent’s prevention initiatives.

At the end of the psychotherapeutic treatment offered at Marie-Vincent, studies conducted by our researchers (Hébert and Daignault, 2015) indicate that children who benefited from it have, among other things:

better self-esteem
fewer anxiety symptoms
fewer symptoms of depression
fewer post-traumatic stress symptoms
fewer thoughts leading to a feeling of guilt regarding the victimization they experienced

Our Co-Chairs

Martine Hébert, Ph.D.

Isabelle V. Daignault, Ph. D.

Mireille Cyr: An Invaluable Contribution to Marie-Vincent

Honorary Professor, Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal
Research member of the Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Relationship Problems and Sexual Violence (CRIPCAS)
Research Gate | Google Scholar | psy.umontreal.ca

Mireille Cyr, now retired, has left an indelible mark on the history of the Marie-Vincent Research Chair. Along with Martine Hébert, she co-founded this innovative initiative, guided by exemplary scientific rigour and a deep passion for the cause of young victims of sexual violence. Her pioneering research, notably on mothers of child victims of sexual assault and the NICHD non-suggestive interview protocol, has transformed professional practices and influenced interventions with victims and their families. A recipient of the Marie-Andrée-Bertrand Award in 2020, Mireille leaves a scientific and human legacy of invaluable worth.

Discover research publications and reference works

Le témoignage des mineurs à la Cour : profils et besoins des jeunes et apport d’un programme de préparation

Gadoua, M., Daignault, I. V., Cyr, M., Lachambre, S., & Dufour, K. (2023).

Discover

Profiles of teenage athletes’ exposure to violence in sport: An analysis of their sport practice, athletic behaviors and mental health

Daignault, I. V., Deslaurier-Varin, N., & Parent, S. (2023).

Discover

Alexithymia as a mediator between intimate partner violence and post-traumatic stress symptoms in mothers of children disclosing sexual abuse

Dubé, V., Tremblay-Perreault, A., Allard-Cobetto, P., & Hébert, M. (2023).

Discover

Differential profiles of sexually abused adolescent boys

Gauthier-Duchesne, Am., Hébert, M., Blais, M., & Wekerle, C. (2023).

Discover

View the Chair’s publications

Our Spokesperson : Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin

Since 2015, Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin has been an ardent advocate for young victims of sexual violence. Her dedication to the cause goes far beyond the traditional role of a spokesperson. Through media appearances, social media engagement, and active participation in our events and fundraising campaigns, Mélissa raises awareness among Québecers about the impact of violence on young people and the importance of support for victims. Preventing sexual violence is a cause that is particularly close to her heart.

Mélissa’s remarkable commitment was recognized in 2016 when she received the Metro Achievement Award at the Gala du cinéma québécois for her exceptional dedication to Marie-Vincent. 2025 marked her 10th anniversary as our spokesperson, and the entire team is incredibly grateful for her unwavering support. Thank you, Mélissa!

A Message from Mélissa

« Since my very first moments as a spokesperson, I have witnessed the collective strength we embody in our fight against sexual violence against young people. Every day, Marie-Vincent reminds me of the urgent need to build a protective community around youth—a safety net woven with expertise, collaboration, and hope. »

« Let’s remember that every story of courage and every step toward healing is a source of inspiration. The idea that young people can be abused is an unbearable injustice, a reality that must never be accepted. Yet the truth remains: too many young people suffer in silence, and too many families are torn apart by sexual violence. That is why our collective commitment is more vital than ever. Thank you for standing with us! »

Watch Our Latest Awareness Campaigns

Overcoming the Unimaginable to Rediscover Hope

Watch

My Greatest Dream

Watch

Because You Support Me

Watch

Marvin’s Circle

Marvin’s Circle is a network of young professionals committed to creating a world free from sexual violence. As ambassadors, they leverage their expertise and networks to make a difference, notably by raising awareness in their communities and respective circles to initiate a new dialogue and drive a change in mindsets. Marvin’s Circle is the driving force behind the Ombré gala and plays a central role in promoting Marie-Vincent’s mission and values.

Since its creation in 2011, Marvin’s Circle has raised over $430,000 through various initiatives, with the aim of spotlighting a cause that resonates deeply with the young business community.

Members

Karine Lagacé-Paquette, Co-President of Marvin’s Circle

Prosecutor, Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions (DPCP)

David Bastien, CFA

Senior Analyst, National Bank Financial

Audrey Bainbridge

Senior Consultant, Mergers & Acquisitions Team, Mercer

Annie Brisebois

Lawyer, Panneton Law Firm

Juliette Comtois Béïque

Real Estate Broker, RE/MAX Crystal

Jeanne Gagné

Prosecutor, Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions, Montréal

William Provost

Associate, National Bank Financial

Andreea Rusu

Senior Lawyer, Norton Rose Fulbright

Olivier Charest

Energy Director, North America, Alcoa

Juliette Fournier

Biodiversity Consultant and Environmental Impact Assessment Professional, WSP Canada

Louis-Alexandre Lefebvre

Regional Director, National Bank Investments

Christine Legault

Director, Strategic Alignment and Operational Excellence – Finance at Hydro-Québec

Frédérique Hébert

Sales Director for Félix Jasmin, Engel & Völkers

Laurent Simpson

Client Relations Manager, Croesus

Our Team

The people who work at Marie-Vincent share a common goal: to build a world free from sexual violence against children and adolescents.

Families are welcomed by a multidisciplinary clinical team of psychologists, psychotherapists, psychoeducators, sexologists, criminologists and social workers.

Whether by assisting young people and their families, providing prevention and training programs, or playing a supporting role in the mission, our team is distinguished by its commitment to the cause and to those who benefit from our services.

Explore our career opportunities

Leadership Team

Lisa Clowery

President and CEO

Geneviève Poulin

Deputy Executive Director

Isabelle Martin

Director of Human Resources

Isabelle Boucher, CPA, CMA

Director of Finance and Administration

Laurie Fossat

Director of Communications

Véronique Boivin

Director of Philanthropic Development

Myriam Le Blanc-Élie, M.A., sexologue

Director of Prevention and Training

Sonia Dionne

Director of Clinical Services

Sarah Montminy

Deputy Director of Clinical Services

Eszter Badacsonyi-Marcotte

Deputy Director of Clinical Services

Our Team

Board of Directors

A Deep Commitment to a Future Free From Sexual Violence Against Youth

Marie-Vincent can count on the expertise of a strong board of directors composed of volunteer members from diverse backgrounds who share a common aspiration to build a protective community. Their commitment and expertise are essential: they contribute to our organization’s strategy to protect our interests, ensure our sustainability, and strengthen our impact.

Members

* Also members of the Board of Directors of the Marie-Vincent Centre of Expertise on Sexual Assault.

Jessica N. Pathy *

President Corporate Director

Nathalie Lachance *

Vice-President

Sonya Branco

Treasurer

Elisabeth Neelin

Secretary

Linda Bergeron

Board Member

Patricia Châteauneuf

Board Member

Dominique Di Fiore

Board Member

Judith Dorvil

Board Member

Alison Green

Board Member

Annie Martin

Board Member

Sébastien Perron-Carle

Board Member

Jean-Marc Potvin *

Board Member

Xavier Sagues *

Board Member

Marie-Claude Vernier

Board Member

Jean Vincent

Board Member

History

For 50 years, the Marie-Vincent Foundation has been dedicated to building a world free of violence for children and teenagers, supporting both young victims of sexual violence and those exhibiting sexual behaviour problems, through essential services, strong partnerships, and innovative initiatives. Explore key milestones in our history and some details about the celebrations surrounding this anniversary.

The Marie-Vincent Foundation was founded in 1975 to address the urgent needs of children receiving services from the Marie-Vincent Centre, established a decade earlier by Marguerite Séguin-Desnoyers. At the time, the Centre provided social, psychiatric, educational, and psychological services to children aged 5 to 12 experiencing significant socio-emotional difficulties. Over the years, due to growing needs and a lack of available resources, the Foundation expanded its mission to support children who are survivors of sexual violence.

The Québec government created youth centres, integrating the Marie-Vincent Centre into the Montréal Youth Centre. The Foundation later separated from that organization and redefined its mission to help children under 12 who had experienced abuse.

To mark its 30th anniversary, the Marie-Vincent Foundation established the Marie-Vincent Centre of Expertise on Sexual Violence and the Marie-Vincent Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Violence Against Children. This milestone marked the beginning of direct services for children under 12 who had experienced sexual violence, as well as those presenting sexual behaviour problems. The Marie-Vincent Centre became Québec’s first Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC), bringing together police, medical, psychosocial and therapeutic services under one roof.

The first training sessions were offered to the health and social services network, with a formal agreement signed in 2013 with the responsible department (MSSS). In 2018, a second agreement was signed with the Department of Education, followed by another in 2021 with the Department of Justice to train professionals in the socio-judicial sector.

View Training Programs

Marie-Vincent expanded its services to provide assistance to teenagers who had experienced sexual violence. That same year, the prevention service was launched and began the reflections that would lead to the deployment of the Lantern program for children aged 0 to 5 in 2019. In 2017, the prevention program for teenagers was launched.

To meet the growing demand for support and expand its impact, Marie-Vincent opened a second centre in Montérégie.

Marie-Vincent celebrated 50 years of the Foundation, as well as 20 years of the Centre of Expertise on Sexual Violence and the Interuniversity Research Chair on Sexual Violence Against Children.

50 Years of Commitment to Youth

On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, Marie-Vincent highlighted the progress made since its creation. This landmark year was an opportunity to reflect on five decades of commitment to children and adolescents, through specialized services, prevention actions and sustained mobilization work.

Why 2025 Was a Year We Wished to Pay Tribute

To the many achievements, including:

The enhancement of our services;
The development of prevention projects adapted to current realities;
Landmark events that enabled us to shine, increase our visibility and raise essential funding to continue our mission;
To the allies, partners and donors who have contributed, over the years, to help Marie-Vincent grow.

It was also an opportunity to look back on the journey with pride, while reaffirming our commitment to continue our work with conviction.

A Visual Identity to Celebrate Together

A special visual identity was developed to mark this 50th anniversary. It symbolized the difficult path climbed by young victims of sexual violence to overcome their difficulties, accompanied by their backpack, the right tools and the necessary support. This ascent represented the courage and perseverance required to reach the summit and see the horizon of a better future.

This symbol was used both during our therapy sessions with young people and by our prevention and training team, particularly in the imagery of the book One Step at a Time with Lou. This illustration also represented the peaks reached and to be reached by Marie-Vincent, progressively, to build a protective community and contribute to a world without violence.
Together, one step at a time.

50th Anniversary Activities

Several initiatives marked the 50th anniversary, including the broadcast of an advertisement featuring the voice of our spokesperson, Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin, as well as various visibility and mobilization actions.

These moments helped highlight Marie-Vincent’s history, strengthen ties with our communities and remind us of the importance of continuing our efforts to prevent sexual violence and support young victims.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and subscribe to our newsletter to be at the forefront of our initiatives.

Contribute Directly to Our Mission

Marie-Vincent’s 50 years of impact would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of our donors and supporters. Your contributions represent more than half of our operational funding.
Today, you can help us build the next 50 years and provide young people with a better future.

Donate Now

About Us

At Marie-Vincent, we believe that all children deserve to live a happy life, grow and develop in a healthy environment, thrive and reach their full potential. No child should experience violence or exhibit problematic sexual behaviors without receiving appropriate help. No child should have to endure the severe psychological, physical, familial, academic, and social consequences wrought by violence. To achieve this, we believe in the power of prevention, education, and awareness—engaging children, adolescents, parents, professionals working with youth, and the general public in fostering egalitarian and harmonious relationships to prevent sexual violence and support young people with problematic sexual behaviors.

Our Mission

We support child and adolescent victims of sexual violence as well as children and adolescents with problematic sexual behaviors by providing them, under one roof and in collaboration with our partners, with the services they need. We contribute to preventing violence through education and awareness while also assisting children with sexual behaviour problems.

Our Dream

We dream of building a world free from sexual violence against young people. In the meantime, we strive to be the voice for child and adolescent victims of sexual violence and in the prevention of problematic sexual behaviors among youth. We are convinced that by mobilizing the entire population, we can positively influence the lives of our youth.

Our Vision

We work every day to build a protective community and provide unifying leadership in Quebec in the fight against violence toward children and adolescents. To achieve this, we collaborate with our partners to:

Strengthen the capacity to prevent violence by training professionals and supporting organizations.
Modify the developmental trajectory of children and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence and those with problematic sexual behaviors by offering them therapeutic and psychosocial services.

Our Values

As long as there are young victims of sexual violence, we will be there to help them overcome their ordeal by providing specialized, effective, and tailored services. Sharing expertise with our partners and the community, we can work together to ensure that the best services are available throughout Québec.

Learn More About Our Clinical Services

Learn More

Consult our training offer

Consult

Discover our prevention initiatives

Discover

Our Model

Marie-Vincent is the first Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) to have opened its doors in Quebec. CYACs meet the needs of vulnerable youth and their families, including victims of sexual violence, with a coordinated and multidisciplinary approach in a safe and comfortable environment.

Marie-Vincent embodies this approach by offering, at its Montreal and Montérégie centers, integrated services under one roof, including specialized spaces for psychosocial and psychotherapeutic support, police investigation interviews, medical consultations, or support in preparing for court testimony. We create a safe and welcoming environment, minimizing secondary revictimization and fostering better coordination of interventions in the best interest of the youth.

Learn more about CYACs in Canada

Effective Date: 29-Oct-2024
Last Updated: 29-Oct-2024

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Publications

Activity Reports

Activity report 2024-2025

Activity report 2023-2024

Activity report 2022-2023

Activity report 2021-2022

Activity report 2020-2021

Activity report 2019-2020

Activity report 2018-2019

Activity report 2017-2018

Research Chair Publications

Echo from the Chair 9 | Pilot study of TF-CBT approach with sexually abused preschoolers at the Centre d’expertise Marie-Vincent

Number 9 | June 2015

Echo from the Chair 4 | Who are the parents of the schoolaged children attending the Centre d’expertise Marie-Vincent?

Number 4 | September 2013

Echo from the Chair 3 | Participant satisfaction of TF-CBT treatment offered at the Centre d’expertise Marie-Vincent

Number 3 | July 2013

Echo from the Chair 2 | Symptoms of school-aged children consulting the Centre d’expertise Marie-Vincent

Number 2 | July 2013

Echo from the Chair 1 | Who are the school-aged children attending the Centre d’expertise Marie-Vincent?

Number 1 | July 2013

Strategic Plans

Planification stratégique 2021-2026

Strategic Planning 2016-2021

Career

Discover Available Positions

Do you want to make a real difference in the lives of young people in Québec and contribute to the prevention of sexual violence?

At Marie-Vincent, we provide an environment where your commitment can have a meaningful impact on the lives of youths affected by sexual violence. Every team member is a valuable asset in fulfilling our mission.
In the Marie-Vincent workplace, recognition is one of our core values, along with autonomy and respect. If you are a good listener, patient, and empathetic, we want to meet you.

What Our Colleagues Say

Benefits of Joining Our Team

Job Openings at Marie-Vincent

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Application Form

Browse our list of available positions or send us a spontaneous application.

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External support resources

If a child or adolescent confides that they have experienced sexual abuse, we invite you to see the following page:

How to respond in cases of doubt or disclosure

General resources and child protection

Québec CISSS and CIUSSS

Ages 5 to 17 | Psychosocial intake | Crise-Ado-Famille-Enfance (CAFE) program

Info-Santé and Info-Social lines

Free and confidential telephone consultation service

Batshaw Youth and Family Centres

Director of Youth Protection (DPJ)

Canadian Centre for Child Protection

Québec Human Rights and Youth Rights Commission

Sexual assault and victimization

Montréal Sexual Assault Centre

18 years and over

Crime Victims Compensation (IVAC)

Sexual Violence Info-Aid

24 hours a day / 7 days a week

Québec Coalition of Sexual Assault Help Centres (CALACS)

List of all CALACS in Québec

Network of Crime Victims Assistance Centres (CAVAC)

List of all CAVACs in Québec

Cybertip.ca

Sphères

Sphères is a concerted program bringing together various community and institutional partners to support people being subjected to sexual exploitation. It is intended for Montréal youths aged 12 to 24 who wish to make changes in their lives through a voluntary process centred on their needs and aspirations.

Designated sexual violence centres

CHU Saint-Justine

Montréal Children’s Hospital

Suicide prevention

Suicide Prevention Line of the Québec Association for Suicide Prevention

Professional orders

Ordre des psychologues du Québec

Call centre for people seeking a psychologist

Ordre professionnel des sexologues du Québec

Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et thérapeutes conjugaux du Québec

Ordre professionnel des criminologues du Québec

Ordre des psychoéducateurs et des psychoéducatrices du Québec

Resources for Everyone

This toolkit offers practical resources to help parents, family members, and professionals support young people in developing self-confidence, healthy relationships, and self-protection skills.

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8 results found

Video

Capsule: Building Gender Inequality

Promoting egalitarian relationships helps children build healthy and respectful relationships and develop their full potential. In the long term, it protects children from sexual violence.

Fact Sheet

Do you really know everyone you’re connecting with online?

These discussion points have been designed to enable you to talk to young people about their technology habits and the prevention of online sexual violence.

Fact Sheet

Are you being yourself online?

These discussion guides are designed to help you talk with your teenager about the video “Are You Being Yourself Online?”, their technology habits, and how to prevent online sexual violence. They are primarily intended for sixth graders.

Printable Game

Marvin’s Snake and Ladders

Printable Game

The 7 Families Game

Guide

Atlas Compass Program

Guide

Compass’s Words of Wisdom – Ages 10 to 12

Guide

Atlas Compass Program

Signature Events

Moments for a Better Future

Marie-Vincent’s signature events are much more than fundraisers. They are vibrant and unforgettable experiences where commitment meets enjoyment and generosity becomes a driver of meaningful change.

Join us for exceptional moments where every laugh, every conversation, and every gesture resonates as a note of hope for the young people who need it most.

The CFO Dinner

Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, where renowned chefs and CFOs team up to prepare a gourmet meal. This benefit event brings together Montréal’s business community in an elegant and welcoming setting, ideal for networking and enriching exchanges.

Learn more

Marvin on the Rock

This year, Marvin on the Rock and Ombré join forces for a unique evening blending elegance, music, and solidarity. Get ready to be swept up by Marvin on the Rock — with a signature touch from the Cercle de Marvin — a one-of-a-kind musical event where business leaders take the stage alongside a professional band to deliver a breathtaking performance. This high-energy evening combines passion, music, and generosity, creating an electrifying atmosphere in support of Marie-Vincent.

Learn more

The Ombré Benefit Evening

The Ombré benefit evening was a refined event where networking and solidarity came together. Organized by the Cercle de Marvin, it symbolized the journey from darkness into light, paying tribute to the young people who find the strength to share their story.

In an elegant atmosphere conducive to meaningful exchanges, Ombré made it possible to support a life-changing cause while bringing together an engaged community around an essential mission.

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Services for Families and Professionals

Marie-Vincent does not provide emergency services.

To learn how to respond in cases of suspicion or disclosure, click here.
To find out how to refer a child or youth to Marie-Vincent as a professional, or to learn more about the process as a trusted adult, please visit this page.
If you are a professional working with young people and need specific support or guidance in your environment for a case of sexual violence or sexual behaviour problems, discover our advisory services or call us directly.

514 285-0505

Our Centres

Montérégie

Address

265 D’Anjou Blvd., suite 201, Châteauguay (QC) J6J 2R4

579 977-4681

Montréal

Address for clinical services

4100 Molson Street, 4th Floor, Montréal (QC) H1Y 3N1

Postal address

4100 Molson Street, 3rd Floor, Montréal (QC) H1Y 3N1

514 285-0505

Walid Benahmed, Organizational Communications Officer

Cell. : 514 226-0214

media@marie-vincent.org

You will find a detailed overview of Marie-Vincent services in this document.

If you have any concerns about our services, please complete this form and return it to rh@marie-vincent.org

By submitting this form, you consent to the use of your personal information by Marie-Vincent in accordance with our privacy policy.

Consult our privacy policy to learn how to proceed.

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	Marie-Vincent is a proud member of the Mouvement des organismes solidaires d’Angus (MOSA).

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Privacy and Security Policy of the Marie‑Vincent Website

Latest version: March 2026

Current version: March 2026

Marie‑Vincent is an organization that supports children and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence by offering, under one roof and in collaboration with our partners, the services they need. We also assist children displaying problematic sexual behaviours and, in addition to this clinical support, we develop innovative and diverse sexual violence prevention initiatives as well as training programs that reach thousands of professionals working with youth every year.

As part of our mission, service delivery, events, training activities, communications, fundraising initiatives and various solicitations, we collect, use and disclose personal information in an ethical and rigorous manner.

Marie‑Vincent is committed to protecting your personal information in accordance with its practices and the requirements set out in applicable laws. To that end, Marie‑Vincent has adopted this Privacy and Website Security Policy (the “Policy”). This Policy sets out Marie‑Vincent’s practices regarding the collection, use and disclosure of your personal information via our website and applies to the situations described in Section 2. It does not apply to personal information obtained and processed in connection with our clinical services to minor children. These services involve support from our team and require the reading and completion of multiple consent forms by the person responsible for the child, in accordance with applicable laws.

For ease of reading, we refer to ourselves as “Marie‑Vincent” or simply “we.” By providing personal information after having had the opportunity to review this Policy, you consent to your personal information being processed in accordance with it.

In addition to this Policy, Marie‑Vincent has also adopted an internal policy governing the management of personal information. Its purpose is to set out the principles governing the protection of personal information in the course of our activities and operations. It contains guidelines regarding the handling of personal information throughout its lifecycle as well as the roles and responsibilities of the person responsible for the protection of personal information and those of staff members. Appendix A provides a summary of this policy.

How to Contact our PrivacyOfficer?

For any questions regarding this Policy or our management of your personal information, you may contact our Privacy Officer:

By email:

By mail:

vieprivee@marie-vincent.org

To the attention of our Privacy Officer:

4 100, rue Molson, 3rd Floor
Montreal (Quebec) H1Y 3N1

How Do We Use Your Personal Information?

The way we process your personal information depends on the nature of your interaction with us through our website. Below is a description of how Marie‑Vincent collects and uses your personal information, with the understanding that we may also process your personal information as permitted by applicable law or otherwise with your consent.

When you browse our website, we process your personal information in the ways described in Sections 2.1 to 2.8:

2.1 When you subscribe to our newsletter

2.2 When you contact us through our contact forms or application forms

2.3 When you make a donation

2.4 When you register for an event (philanthropic, training or prevention)

2.5 When you submit an application for employment or to become a volunteer

2.6 When you purchase promotional items

2.7 When you submit a complaint using the designated form

2.8 Other purposes of use

When you browse our website for any other reason, please refer to Appendix B of this Policy, which addresses our use of cookies. The use of cookies may involve the processing of your personal information.

2.1 When you subscribe to our newsletter

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect your personal information directly from you when you subscribe to our newsletter.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	User category (parent, professional, donor, volunteer, other)	Used to tailor the content of our newsletters according to the category of users subscribed.
	Email address	Confirm your identity and send you our newsletter when you have consented to receive it (you may unsubscribe at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link).
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	Marie‑Vincent employees whose duties require it may have access to all or part of your personal information. Service providers, platforms, and technologies that are integrated or otherwise necessary for the operation of our website and our newsletter distribution list. Your personal information may also be accessible to other users if you authorize it.

2.2 When you contact us using our contact forms

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect your personal information directly from you when you complete our contact forms on our website.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	Identification information: first name, last name, email address, telephone number (only if you wish to be contacted by phone).	Confirm your identity and allow Marie‑Vincent employees to contact you regarding a general inquiry or an employment request.
	Message content (if personal information is provided). Important: Please do not include any personal information that is not necessary for the content of your message.	Identify your needs to respond to your request.
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	Marie‑Vincent employees whose duties require it may have access to all or part of your personal information. Service providers, platforms and integrated or otherwise necessary technologies for the operation of our website. Your personal information may also be accessible to other users if you authorize it.

2.3 When you make a donation

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect your personal information directly from you when you complete our online donation forms.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	Identification information: first name, last name, mailing address, billing address, email address, type and amount of donation.	Confirm your identity, manage and administer the donation, (including confirming the transaction), renew your donation, issue tax receipts, and send our newsletter.
	Salutation (optional)	Confirm the preferred form of greeting.
	Home, mobile, or work telephone number (optional).	Contact you if you require our support.
	Credit card information	Process the payment of your donation. The information is processed directly by our service provider and the Foundation does not have access to these details.
	Billing address (if different from the mailing address)	Process the payment for your donation.
	Comment (optional) Important: Please do not include any personal information that is not necessary in the context of your comment.	Review any relevant comments.
	Mentions in the context of our communications: When you complete the donation form, you have the option to select “I agree to have my donation acknowledged as part of the Foundation’s communication campaigns.” When you choose this option, your personal information may be used as part of our acknowledge program, such as, for example, sending you a thank‑you card, mentioning it in our activity report, or mentioning it on our social media platforms. You may withdraw your consent for the above purposes at any time by writing to vieprivee@marie-vincent.org.  In the case of a donation in shares or a donation in memoriam, you may be asked to provide additional information in order to comply with the specific requirements of these situations.
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	Marie-Vincent employees to provide technical support when completing the online form, to process your donation, and to follow up for tax purposes. It is important to note that when you make an online donation, Marie-Vincent employees do not have access to your banking information. Service providers, platforms (particularly donation management platforms), and technologies that are integrated or otherwise necessary for the operation of our website, our newsletter service, and our online payment services operated by third parties. Your personal information may also be accessible to users other than those mentioned above, if you authorize it.

2.4 When you register for an event

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect personal information directly from you through our website or third‑party platform when you register for philanthropic, training or prevention events.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	Identification information: title, first name, last name, email address, telephone number, type of donor, mailing address, billing address, job title and organization, dietary restrictions, and other relevant details.	Confirm your identity, manage your registration, and allow Marie-Vincent employees to contact you regarding Marie-Vincent events and activities, send you a survey or thank-you card, or send you our newsletter.
	Payment information	Process your donation payment. In the case of credit card payments, this information is processed directly by our service provider and Marie-Vincent does not have access to it.
	Billing address	To process the event registration fees.
	Optional information: We ask that you only include the personal identification information necessary to identify you and follow up with you. As part of your participation in our event, the Marie-Vincent Foundation must collect, use, disclose, and process your personal information to confirm your identity, verify the accuracy of your personal information, update it, manage and organize the fundraising activity, ensure compliance with your dietary restrictions or other specific needs that may be required, communicate with you about the event and our activities, send you a receipt for tax purposes, and meet our legal and regulatory requirements, including for external or internal control and verification purposes. Other uses When you fill out the event form, you have the option to make a donation. If you select the option “I agree to have my donation mentioned in the Foundation’s communication campaigns,” your personal information may be used as part of the recognition plan, for example, by sending a thank-you card, mentioning it in our activity report, or mentioning it on our social media. You may withdraw your consent for the above purposes at any time by writing to vieprivee@marie-vincent.org.
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	At Marie-Vincent, our employees, whose duties require it, will have access to all or part of your personal information. Service providers, platforms (particularly donation management platforms), and technologies that are integrated or otherwise necessary for the operation of our website, our newsletter service, and our online payment services operated by third parties. Your personal information may also be accessible to users other than those mentioned above, if you authorize it.

2.5 When you apply for a job or volunteer position

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect your personal information when you submit your application for a job or to become a volunteer by filling out the form on our website or by sending us your application by email. We may also collect applications from third parties, for example via recruitment platforms.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	First name, last name, email, phone number (optional), the position you are applying for, and any personal information contained in your resume, cover letter or other documents.	Communicate with you, evaluate your job application, to manage any follow-up related to your application.
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	We restrict access to your personal information to Marie-Vincent employees who need such access as part of the recruitment process (human resources, internal team members related to the position to be filled, technical and administrative support). We use service providers who provide software and cloud services to collect, store, and process your personal information on our behalf. We may share your personal information with a criminal background check service provider.

2.6 When you purchase promotional items

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect personal information directly from you when you place an order through our website.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	Identification information: first name, last name, mailing address, email, billing address and phone number.	Confirm your identity and allow Marie-Vincent employee to contact you, or to send you our newsletter.
	Payment information	Process your payment. In the case of credit card payments, this information is processed directly by our service provider and Marie-Vincent does not have access to it.
	Information about your order	Process your order and manage our goods and services, as well as customer service.
	Other uses When you purchase a promotional item, you have the option of making a donation and selecting the option “I agree to have my donation mentioned in the Foundation’s communications campaigns.” your personal information may be used as part of the recognition plan, for example, by sending a thank-you card, mentioning it in our activity report, or mentioning it on our social media. You may withdraw your consent for the above purposes at any time by writing to vieprivee@marie-vincent.org.
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	Marie-Vincent employees whose duties require it will have access to all or part of your personal information. Service providers, platforms (particularly donation management platforms), and technologies that are integrated or otherwise necessary for the operation of our website, our newsletter service, and our online payment services operated by third parties. Your personal information may also be accessible to users other than those mentioned above, if you authorize it.

2.7 When you submit a complaint

*How do we collect your personal information?*
	We collect personal information directly from you when you submit a complaint regarding our services.
*What categories of personal information do we collect and for what purposes do we use it?*
	Categories of personal information collected	Purposes of use
	Identification information of the person concerned by the complaint: Last name, first name, date of birth (if the child is a minor), language spoken, mailing address, telephone number, email address, Marie-Vincent file number, if applicable.	Confirm the identity of the person concerned by the complaint.
	Identifying information about the complainant: relationship to the person concerned by the complaint, last name, first name, language spoken, postal address, email address, telephone number.	Confirm your identity and allow Marie-Vincent employees to contact you to follow up on your complaint.
	Description of the complaint	Understand the context of your complaint.
	Your expectations regarding the complaint. Important: Please do not include any personal information that is not necessary to the content of your complaint.	Understand your expectations to take the appropriate measures to respond to your complaint.
*Who has access to your personal information?*
	Marie-Vincent employees whose duties require it will have access to all or part of your personal information relating to your complaint.

2.8 Other purposes

We may also process your personal information to confirm your identity, verify and update the accuracy of your personal information, comply with legal obligations, and ensure the security of our communications and systems in order to prevent and detect security threats.

Children underthe age of14

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 14 years of age. If you are under 14, please do not provide personal information without the express consent of a parent or legal guardian. If you are a parent or a guardian and you become aware that your child has provided us with personal information through our website, please contact us. If we learn that we have collected personal information from minors without verifying parental consent, we will take steps to delete that information from our servers.

Which identification, profiling and location technologiesdo we use?

We use Google Analytics to improve your experience on our website. Google Analytics provides reports allowing us to obtain approximate location information (country and city) and analyze site usage through cookies. When browsing our website, you may enable the cookies identified as being used for identification, electronic profiling, or geolocation in the cookie banner on our website. For more information, we invite you to consult our cookie policy in Appendix B of this Policy.

Where do we store personal information,and is it transferred outside Québec?

Your personal information is primarily stored electronically on secure servers or cloud platforms, including, Marie‑Vincent’s servers, cloud‑based service provider platforms, and servers of third parties with whom we do business. When using these platforms, your personal information may be transferred and hosted outside Québec by these providers, including elsewhere in Canada and in the United States. Certain information is held in paper format in secure filing cabinets at our offices.

If we determine that disclosing your personal information outside Québec is necessary to support our operations, we assess whether your personal information will benefit from adequate protection upon disclosure. We will only disclose your personal information if we believe it receives adequate protection. Such disclosure will also be governed by an appropriate contractual agreement.

In addition to sharing personal information with partners or service providers for the purpose of performing service agreements that fall within the purposes of this Policy, we may disclose your personal information in the following situations: (1) to comply with applicable law, regulation, court order, or any other legal process; (2) to enforce agreements you have entered into with us, including this Policy; or (3) to respond to complaints alleging that your use of the service infringes on the rights of a third party.

Security measuresand inherent risks

We implement appropriate physical, technical and administrative safeguards to protect personal information. However, given inherent risks, we cannot guarantee absolute security and, therefore, we cannot ensure or guarantee the security of the personal information you transmit to us, and you do so at your own risk.

If you have reason to believe that personal information has been compromised, please contact our Privacy Officer using the contact details provided in Section 1 of this Policy.

What are your rightsregarding your personal information?

Under applicable law, you have several rights regarding your personal information, including:

7.1 Access to your personal information

You may ask us whether we hold personal information about you and, if so, you may request access to that personal information.

7.2 Rectification of inaccurate or incomplete personal information

You may ask us to correct any incomplete or inaccurate personal information that we hold about you.

7.3 Withdrawal of consent

In certain cases, you may withdraw your consent to the disclosure or use of the personal information we hold about you. However, you understand that in such cases, we will no longer be able to process your requests as described in Sections 2.1 to 2.8.

7.4 Data portability

You may request that your personal information be provided to you or transferred to another organization in a structured, commonly used technological format, provided that your personal information is computerized and that no serious practical difficulties prevent such a transfer.

How can you exerciseyour rights

To exercise any of these rights, please contact our Privacy Officer using the contact details provided in Section 1 of this Policy.

How to file a complaint about our handling of your personal information?

Marie‑Vincent takes requests, complaints and comments regarding the way we handle personal information very seriously. We encourage you to contact our Privacy Officer to submit any complaints or comments regarding our personal information practices.

Your complaint will be reviewed by our Privacy Officer, who will determine whether the handling of your personal information complies with our personal information governance policy as well as with any applicable law.

You may also file a complaint with the Commission d’accès à l’information du Québec using the form available on the Commission’s website. However, we encourage you to contact our Privacy Officer first.

External websites or services

This Policy does not apply to third‑party websites or services accessible through links on our website. If you follow such links, those third‑party sites or services will likely have their own privacy policies that you should review before submitting any personal information.

How do we updatethis Policy?

This Policy may be updated from time to time to ensure clarity and transparency. Any updates will be published on the Marie‑Vincent website along with the date of the latest revision. Changes will take effect on the date indicated.

Easing the burden of youth sexual violence

Marie-Vincent supports young victims of sexual violence as well as children exhibiting problematic sexual behaviours and contributes to preventing this violence.

Help us build a world free from sexual violence.

Donate Now

Tickets for the CFO Dinner are now available!

The CFO Dinner, one of Marie-Vincent’s flagship events, returns for its 15th edition on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Entrepôts Dominion, under the theme: Cultivating Hope.

Learn More