BeneRock concert to raise funds for palliative care residence

BY MEGAN DOLSKI and ELYSE AMEND

Pierrefonds resident Michael Dogniaux will be back with a third BeneRock concert this month.

The 56-year-old former Boy Scout leader was inspired to continue fundraising for local organizations after his experience climbing the 4,167-metre Jebel Toubkal in Morocco last fall. The climb’s goal was to raise funds for a hospice in Birmingham, England.

Since his return to the West Island, Dogniaux has been organizing benefit concerts for local charities. The next one will be held at Clydes, 286 Lakeshore Rd. in Pointe Claire on April 26. All proceeds will go towards the West Island Palliative Care Residence (WIPCR).

WIPCR’s events coordinator Andrea Gordon said without community support – like Dogniaux’s BeneRock concert – they would not be able to raise the $1 million the residence needs to stay open every year. On top of events the WIPCR organizes itself, like their fall fashion show and Valentine’s Day gala, these types of concerts help touch a different audience and raise awareness about their cause, she added.

Doors for the April 26 concert open at 8 p.m., and the Boomers and Tebo will perform. Entrance is $5. For more information on BeneRock events, visit www.benerock.com.