To mark Renaissance’s 30th anniversary, its founder Pierre Legault looks back on this human and entrepreneurial journey in a committed and inspiring book, now available in stores.
For Pierre Legault, entrepreneurship was never an end in itself. It was first and foremost a way to take action—to respond concretely to the realities faced by people living in precarious situations. Trained as a psychoeducator, he witnessed the obstacles that prevent many individuals from accessing the job market. Rather than simply observing, he chose to build a lasting solution: Renaissance.
Founded on a deeply human vision, Renaissance developed around a unique model that combines social economy, social and professional integration, and the circular economy. More than 30 years later, the impact is very real. With over 70 locations across Quebec, the organization supports thousands of people each year who are far from the job market on their path to sustainable employment, while diverting thousands of tons of goods from landfills. A concrete demonstration that social impact, environmental impact, and financial viability can go hand in hand.
On the occasion of Renaissance’s 30th anniversary, Pierre Legault revisits this extraordinary entrepreneurial adventure in a book that is both personal and inspiring. He recounts the beginnings, the challenges, the pivotal decisions, and the lessons that shaped the organization over time. Through his testimony, he shares a strong conviction: to endure, a social enterprise must remain true to its mission while ensuring its economic strength.
This book is an invitation to dive into the heart of Renaissance’s history and to discover another way of doing business—more human, more responsible, and forward-looking. It is now available in limited quantities at select partner bookstores—Librairie Beaumont, Librairie Fleury-Hamel, Librairie L’Île-Perrot, Librairie NDG, Librairie Ontario, and Librairie Saint-Denis—as well as at Fripe Mont-Royal.
A true journey into the DNA of Renaissance, offering a deeper understanding of how an idea driven by strong values can, over the years, transform lives and help build a more sustainable economy.
