Jean-Maurice Trudel Is Still Building
“I always have a project.”
Jean-Maurice Trudel says this with a smile. He is always looking to the future. Over the course of his life, he has been a teacher, consultant and international project manager. He is also a traveler and author. His journey has taken him from Africa to Asia, including Indonesia, where he lived for several years with his wife, Lucie. Wherever he has gone, he has made a habit of observing, learning and seeking to understand.
When he talks about philanthropy, he does not present himself as an expert. He simply explains how he and his wife considered the causes they wanted to support and the impact they hoped to make.
“We started about three years ago. We didn’t know how it worked, so we asked questions and took the time to learn.”
The couple chose to support institutions that have played an important role in their lives, including Hôpital Charles-Le Moyne.
After more than 30 years on the South Shore, they have a special connection to the hospital. Jean-Maurice receives cardiology care there and knows how important it is to have access to specialized care close to home. His wife chose to support oncology after being moved by the experience of someone close to her.
“This is our hospital. If anything happens to us, this is where we come.”
Their gift of shares worth more than $100,000 reflects their desire to support meaningful projects with lasting impact.
We want to support concrete projects. The cardiac MRI and the Da Vinci robot will stand the test of time. By making a donation, we’re helping many people at once.
For Jean-Maurice, giving has become a natural way to remain engaged with his community.
“Philanthropy has become an extension of my professional life.”
Then he adds, with his characteristic humor and simplicity:
I’m too old to work, but I’m not too old to give.
At 83, Jean-Maurice Trudel does not talk about retirement. He still talks about projects, travel, a writing project and everything he has yet to discover. His generosity reflects who he is: thoughtful, curious and looking to the future.
His story reminds us that it is never too late to learn or make a difference. Whatever your age, you can start giving.
