Zacharie Larivière is a CCAA Torchbearer

In recognition of his exemplary dedication to community service and his innovative initiative to bridge generational gaps and combat senior isolation, Zacharie Larrivière is a 2023-24 recipient of the Torchbearer Scholarship, presented by Hudl.

Zacharie is a Police Foundation student at Cégèp de Trois Rivières, where he runs on the Diablos Cross-Country team.

In 2022, Zacherie launched an intergenerational card distribution project, bringing together elementary school students and seniors from different residences. Through this heartwarming initiative, students crafted personalized cards and personally delivered them to seniors, spreading joy and companionship, particularly during the holiday season. The project fostered intergenerational connections and provided comfort and support to seniors, many of whom experienced heightened isolation during the pandemic.

Driven by a deep sense of compassion and a desire to make a positive impact, Zacherie's project garnered widespread praise and engagement from the community. He collaborated with elementary schools and residences and partnered with the Sûreté du Québec to promote a positive image of the police while addressing issues such as elder abuse prevention.

Sargeant Annie Thibodeau of Sûreté du Québec said, "The children, teachers, seniors, employees, police officers, and management involved loved this intergenerational activity." 

She added. “Zacharie is an exemplary role model for his generation, the community, and future police officers. In an age where technology makes relationships more impersonal, it's reassuring to see this young man emphasize the human side of his work."

Zacherie is involved in various community endeavors, including supporting suicide prevention efforts, aiding the less fortunate during the holiday season, participating in the Special Olympics and participating in fundraising events for charitable causes.

"Receiving the Torchbearer Scholarship is a validation of my commitment to my community and that my efforts to break the isolation of seniors have been noticed and appreciated," said Zacharie.

"It's also an opportunity to continue making a difference in my community and to inspire others to get involved. I would like to thank the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association and Hudl for selecting me as a recipient of the Torchbearer Award."