The mission of the Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation is to contribute to development and improvement of health through poverty and disease prevention by focusing primarily on children and their parents.

In cooperation with various partners, the Foundation is launching an awareness campaign to make the general public understand how important the early years are in a child’s development. Numerous studies confirm that the period from birth to age 5 is a critical time for development and learning. This is when children construct the basis upon which they will function in the future.

By making parents aware of their essential role during their children’s first 5 years, the Foundation hopes to encourage them to provide a rich and positive environment in every way. The goal is for children to develop to their full potential and be prepared for success in school.

The campaign, which runs until October 2010, is being carried out with many partners involved in early childhood development. We thank all of you who have contributed in ways large and small. Working together is how we will succeed in improving the quality of life for our children.