Espace Saint Julien is a unique and innovative initiative at the crossroads of intergenerational, social, and educational engagement. Situated in a historic estate in the heart of Laval, France, this remarkable project embodies a millennium of hospitality and a deep commitment to fostering meaningful connections across generations. Guided by the belief that everyone thrives through mutual care, respect, and shared purpose, this vibrant community provides a sanctuary where individuals of all ages—babies to seniors—find their place and contribute to a larger ecosystem of humanity.
With the integration of Notre-Dame-de-Pontmain boarding school for boys into the Espace Saint Julien, the project takes on an even richer dimension. This new chapter fosters an intergenerational environment where students learn from the wisdom of seniors, support their younger counterparts, and grow into responsible, compassionate citizens. Here, students find a second family that helps them gain both personal growth and a sense of community.
Get a glimpse into the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Espace Saint Julien, where diverse programs come together to create a true sense of home.
Since acquiring the Saint Julien estate in 2016, this remarkable initiative has transformed a 75,000+ square-foot property into a dynamic hub of interconnected lives and services. With the support of donors including foundations and patrons such as Le Fonds Lelièvre, Fondation Bettencourt, and Fondation Actual, Espace Saint Julien has undertaken extensive renovations to create an inclusive community. By 2023, it became home to eight centers that reflect the project’s guiding principles of social impact, education, and intergenerational connection:
The forthcoming integration of the Notre-Dame-de-Pontmain boarding house exemplifies this vision. Boys will share joyful moments with seniors, mentor younger children, and engage with young professionals and residents through cultural events, academic support, and shared meals. These students will enrich their education by sharing daily life with residents of all ages, building empathy, leadership, and a deep sense of belonging regardless of their background or religious affiliation.
Your contributions can bring the Notre-Dame-de-Pontmain boarding house to life within Espace Saint Julien, creating a truly intergenerational experience that benefits students and residents alike. The project, which requires €300,000 to complete, will accommodate 70 boys and provide them with not only a place to live but also an opportunity to thrive in a nurturing and supportive environment within a recognized historic monument.
Discover what life is like at the Internat and see how these young students are supported in their journey: Espace Saint Julien – The Internat.
By supporting this initiative, you will ensure that these boys gain invaluable life skills through relationships with seniors, younger children, and peers. They will help combat loneliness among older residents, learn from their wisdom, and grow into responsible, empathetic individuals. This groundbreaking model—blending education, social connection, and intergenerational care—stands as the only project of its kind, and one that inspires the ambition to replicate its success in other communities.
Help us meet our goal to welcome students by September 2025. Your support will transform lives, create bonds across generations, and sustain a model of community that inspires hope and humanity.
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