Lazard Frères Gestion and Belgium Sotheby's International Realty have participated in an exceptional philanthropic evening for the Asbl Constellations, an association whose aim is to build places for people with mental disabilities.
Constellations’ achievements
Founded in 2001, Constellations is a non-profit organisation whose mission is to build living spaces for people with mental disabilities. At that time, the waiting list for a place in these homes reached 10 years in Brussels. That is why, from 2006 to 2022, Constellations opened 9 homes. Today, thanks to the financial support of donors and public authorities, Constellations can show impressive results:
- 8 houses built, 1 under construction and 3 planned.
- 340 places planned, 190 of which are open and as many jobs created.
- A waiting list that has gone from 10 years to 2 or 3 years.
- Constellations has become the first non-profit organisation in Belgium to build these houses.
The Gala evening
The evening took place around the interventions of prestigious people. Indeed, Mr Paul Polman, former CEO of Unilever and climate expert, shared the latest news from the COP26 in which he participated. Mr Claude Meyer, former Chairman of Procter & Gamble Europe and Vice-Chairman of the Constellations association, spoke about his achievements and projects. Finally, Mr David Clarinval, Federal Minister for the Middle Classes, the Self-Employed, SMEs and Agriculture, as well as the Ambassador of the United States, honoured us with their presence.
In addition to these interventions, 6 works of art by the artists Thierry De Geyter and Dimitri Pietquin were exhibited and a drawing of lots was held with them.
Purpose of this Gala
Each year, Constellations needs about 1 million euros to finance the part of the construction costs not covered by the Region. This corresponds to the remaining 40% not covered by the Region.
In order to reach this sum, Constellations has found a network of generous companies and individuals who, each year, manage to raise a total of €350,000. In addition, Constellations also relies on large Belgian and European foundations which, on average, manage to raise €500,000 per year. However, they are still €150,000 short of what is needed to finance the 3 houses planned. This is why Constellations organises special events, such as the one on 17th of March, in order to raise the missing funds.
