Le Groupe Maurice at the Starting Line with Courons MTL 2026

For several years now, Le Groupe Maurice has been wholeheartedly committed to supporting the Cancer Research Society. This past April 18th, that commitment took the form of a sporting challenge, bringing together employees and their loved ones in a shared effort. Here’s a look back at the 21K Nespresso Montreal challenge organized by Courons MTL and every step that made it count!

 

Courons MTL: Going further, together

Founded over ten years ago by passionate entrepreneurs and runners, Courons MTL is behind some of Montreal’s most iconic events, including the Beneva Marathon and the Nespresso 21K de Montréal. Its mission: to make the city a must-visit destination for runners from around the world, through unique and unifying experiences.

Every year, thousands of participants come together to run or walk – whether for the sheer joy of moving or to raise funds for a cause close to their hearts. Le Groupe Maurice is one of them.

“Taking part in a Courons MTL race was an obvious choice. By joining this event, our employees didn’t just run, they contributed to a collective effort that truly means something,” said Denis Desaulniers, Vice President, Talent and Culture.

Supporting cancer research is one of the company’s core commitments. Giving employees the chance to rally around a cause that touches each and every one of us, in one way or another, was an opportunity not to be missed.

On April 18th, nineteen employees – including Alain Champagne, President and Chief Executive Officer – along with four of their loved ones, took part in the challenge. Some chose the 10 km distance, others the 5 km, but all shared the same goal: to support research and experience a meaningful moment together.

 

Coming together for a cause we believe in

In Canada, nearly one in two people will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. A stark reminder of just how vital scientific research is in advancing treatments and improving the lives of those affected.

“Getting involved in cancer research means contributing to something bigger than yourself. When you consider how many people this disease touches, every gesture takes on real meaning. It is an honour and a source of great pride to see so many people step up this way,” said Véronique Proulx, Marketing Director at Le Groupe Maurice and member of the Comité Relève, of the Cancer Research Society.

A sentiment echoed by those on the ground. “Every kilometre covered alongside my colleagues and friends gave me so much energy to keep going! The atmosphere, the cheers, the fact of being part of such an important cause – all of it left me with a real sense of accomplishment,” shared Ariane Demers, Organizational Development Advisor at Le Groupe Maurice.

Thanks to this collective effort, Le Groupe Maurice employees and their loved ones raised more than $12,000 for the Cancer Research Society; a contribution that provides meaningful, tangible support for the organization’s work.

 

Step by step, what emerged was something far greater than a sporting challenge. The energy of the runners and the depth of their commitment turned this year’s Courons MTL 21K Nespresso Montreal challenge into another meaningful milestone in an ongoing story. A reminder that generosity is built over time, and that each initiative paves the way for the next. A heartfelt thank you to all the Le Groupe Maurice employees who took part, and to their loved ones who joined them!