Lise Paradis awarded Gérard-Lesage Medal for exceptional community service
Tashi Farmilo
Lise Paradis, the esteemed executive director of Gîte Ami de Gatineau, has been honoured with the prestigious Gérard-Lesage Medal. This accolade recognizes her significant contributions to the community, particularly in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and promoting social inclusion.
Since taking on the role of executive director in 2016, Paradis has spearheaded the strategic development of Gîte Ami, an emergency shelter in Gatineau. Under her leadership, the organization has not only enhanced its mission and vision but also substantially expanded its services. One of her most notable achievements includes increasing the number of accommodation beds from 60 to over 100 by adding transitional housing across three additional sites: Mon Calme, Transit, and Colocs. This expansion has tripled the number of employees dedicated to clinical and support services, significantly improving the shelter's capacity to aid those in need.
Paradis's dedication to fighting exclusion and promoting diversity spans over 35 years. Her extensive professional journey, marked by her business acumen and commitment to social causes, has uniquely positioned her to serve the disadvantaged effectively. Her previous roles include mentoring youth at Grands Frères de l'Outaouais, supporting the elderly at the Gatineau Friendship Centre, aiding individuals struggling with well-being at Maison Alonzo Wright, and serving on the board of Centraide Outaouais. These experiences have provided her with deep insights into the needs of the most vulnerable populations.
Among Paradis's numerous accomplishments, the planning and construction of the Yolande-Duval Centre stands out. Additionally, she has been instrumental in establishing the Regional Consultation Table on Hunger and Social Development, as well as developing collective kitchens and community gardens. Her ability to forge strong partnerships with key organizations such as La Soupe populaire de Hull, BRAS, CIPTO, and Équipe IMAGE du CLSC has further strengthened the community support network.
Photo caption: Lise Paradis, executive director of Gîte Ami de Gatineau, has been awarded the Gérard-Lesage Medal for her extensive contributions to supporting the homeless and promoting social inclusion, significantly enhancing community services and partnerships.
Photo credit: Tashi Farmilo