JUST CAUSE... PROVEN GENEROSITY
The green bracelet returns and Laurent Paquin hosts
Having a good laugh for a good cause is fine, but laughing for two good causes is even better. Just For Laughs is once again collaborating with Montreal organisation la Maison du Père, and with Britains Comic Relief, to whom the Just Cause foundation will donate funds collected during the Festival. For the entire month of July, Festival-goers can contribute to this fundraiser by participating in special events, taking on the eccentric challenges of masochistic comedians, or simply by purchasing the famous green bracelets, available throughout the Festival site. As he did in 2005, Laurent Paquin is set to host a second TV special dedicated to the cause, which will be filled with 4 hours of utter craziness on July 29th.
Once again, the biggest comedy festival in the world chooses to leverage its popularity and success to help these two noble causes. In 2005, the Just Cause operation raised $180,000 and Jean-Marc Parent will once more be spokesperson. Laurent Paquin, Gilbert Rozon and numerous other comedians are set to join Parent to delight the crowds.
How to contribute
- Buy a bracelet sold on the Festival site.
- Donations will be solicited at the exit of 19 one-man shows from the Grands Comiques series.
- Watch the special presentation of Juste pour aider, hosted by Laurent Paquin on Sunday, July 29, from 7pm to 11pm on TVA. This laugh-a-thon will end this years Festival and fundraising campaign on a high note.
- Part of the proceeds from the DVD sales of Julie Caron and Guy Nantel's shows will be donated to the foundation.
Comic Relief has been fighting since the early 80s for social justice around the world. In order to get its message across and to collect funds, this British organisation rallies crowds through laughter and comedy. Renown for its original concept, Comic Relief is particularly active in Africa. Closer to home, la Maison du Père, established in 2005 and headed by Gilbert Rozon, brings comfort and support to the homeless while preserving their dignity.
Whether youre just a generous individual or a hilarious celebrity, the head of a company or a sensitive politician, laugh generously. Or be shamelessly laughed at in the company of Jean-Marc Parent and his accomplices as you accomplish a feat and claim the dollars necessary to confront your fears and surpass your capabilities. Do it just for you. Just for laughs. Just cause.