Positive Impacts

Fueling Success and Belonging: The Student Nourishment Program at Saint John Paul Elementary

At Saint John Paul Elementary School in Kenora, something as simple as a healthy meal is making a profound difference in students’ lives. With the support of a $13,000 grant from the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, the school’s Student Nourishment Program is ensuring that vulnerable students and families have access to the food they need to thrive—both in and out of the classroom.

Grounded in research across nutrition, education, and mental health, the program recognizes a fundamental truth: children cannot learn when they are hungry. By providing breakfast, snacks, and lunch as needed, students are better equipped to focus, engage, and succeed academically. Teachers have observed noticeable improvements in attention and performance, along with a reduction in behaviors that can interfere with learning.

Today, the program supports more than a third of the school’s student population, with staff ensuring that any child in need is quickly and discreetly connected to support. Just as importantly, the program is delivered in a way that maintains dignity and fosters inclusion—so every student feels valued and cared for.

What began as a response to food insecurity has grown into something even more meaningful. Students who benefit from the program have begun volunteering to help with its daily operations—an unexpected but powerful outcome. By taking on these responsibilities, students are building confidence, developing skills, and strengthening their sense of belonging.

The kitchen has become more than a place where meals are prepared—it is a hub of connection, where students feel part of something larger than themselves. As one program leader shared, “Our nourishment program helps families to feel like they are part of a village and that Kenora is a good place to raise a family.”

Through this investment, the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation is not only helping to meet a basic need—it is nurturing confidence, community, and opportunity. Because when students are nourished, they are empowered to learn, grow, and succeed.

Food Security at Minto EarlyON Centre

Nourishing Families, Strengthening Community: Food Security at Minto EarlyON Centre

In a warm, welcoming kitchen space at the Minto EarlyON Centre, simple moments—like preparing fresh meals together—are helping to transform lives. Thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, families across the Kenora area are gaining access to something fundamental: healthy, reliable food.

As the cost of living continues to rise, many families are facing difficult choices just to make ends meet. For those experiencing financial strain, food insecurity can be a constant source of stress. The Foundation’s support is helping to ease that burden, ensuring that families have access to nutritious food while preserving their dignity and sense of independence.

Today, the program serves approximately 100 families, including 150 adults and 230 children. Beyond simply providing food, the initiative creates opportunities for connection, learning, and shared experience. Whether it’s preparing meals together or receiving support in a respectful environment, families are empowered to care for themselves and one another.

The impact is deeply felt. One mother shared, “Our family would not be able to make it through the month without the help of the Minto food programs. We are very grateful.” Her words reflect the reality for many—this support is not just helpful, it is essential.

At its heart, the program is about more than food. It’s about health, stability, and community. When families have access to nutritious meals, children thrive, stress is reduced, and households are better able to focus on work, education, and well-being.

Healthy food makes for healthy families—and healthy families build strong, resilient communities. Through this grant, the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation is helping ensure that no family goes hungry, and that every family has the opportunity to flourish.

Sioux Narrows Reconciliation

Walking Forward Together: Honoring Truth and Reconciliation in Sioux Narrows–Nestor Falls

On a crisp fall day in northwestern Ontario, community members gathered shoulder to shoulder—Elders, youth, families, and visitors—united in a shared commitment to learning, healing, and moving forward together. With the support of a $14,000 grant from the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, the Township of Sioux Narrows–Nestor Falls partnered with four neighboring Indigenous communities to present “Waasa Niigaan Izhaada – Our Path Forward” in recognition of the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

The event brought together the Ojibway’s of Onigaming on Sabaskong Bay, Northwest Angle #33, Northwest Angle #37, and Naotkamegwanning First Nation—communities rooted along the eastern shores of Lake of the Woods. Together, they created a meaningful space for reflection, cultural expression, and connection.

Our Path Forward” was free and open to all, inviting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants to engage in a day of storytelling, dance, drumming, and singing. The gathering began with a traditional ceremony and concluded with a shared feast—bookending the day with moments of reflection, gratitude, and unity.

Events like this play a vital role in recognizing the legacy of residential schools and honoring the strength of survivors, their families, and their communities. Through powerful stories and cultural teachings, participants gained a deeper understanding of the intergenerational impacts of residential schools’ knowledge that is essential for meaningful reconciliation.

For many in Sioux Narrows and Nestor Falls, “Our Path Forward” offered an opportunity to learn about the Indigenous Nations whose lands they call home. It encouraged reflection on how each individual can contribute to reconciliation in everyday life, helping to break down the colonial systems that continue to affect Indigenous communities.

More than just a single day of events, “Waasa Niigaan Izhaada – Our Path Forward” represents a growing commitment to building relationships grounded in respect, understanding, and shared responsibility. Thanks to the Foundation’s support, this gathering became a powerful step forward—one that reminds us reconciliation is not a destination, but an ongoing journey we must walk together.

CommUNITY Space

A Community Foundation grant provides safety and hope for Kenora’s most vulnerable citizens

At a simple table, a deck of cards in hand and conversation flowing, connection begins to take shape. For many in Kenora’s street community, moments like these—shared over a game, a warm meal, or a listening ear—are a powerful reminder that they are not alone.

Thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigamig has created a safe, welcoming evening space for some of the community’s most vulnerable citizens.

Operating twice a week from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., the CommUNITY Space offers far more than just shelter from the elements. It provides a place where individuals who are inadequately housed or experiencing food insecurity can access nutritious meals, hydration, and essential services such as washrooms and a phone—basic needs that can so often go unmet.

But just as important as these essentials is the sense of dignity and belonging that fills the room. Volunteers greet each person with warmth and respect, building meaningful relationships over time. Whether it’s helping someone navigate self-care, offering support for mental health, or simply sitting down together and listening to music, these interactions foster trust and human connection.

Each evening, approximately 50 people gather in the space—finding not only physical comfort, but emotional relief. Program leaders have observed a noticeable decrease in stress levels among participants, along with a growing sense of self-worth. For many, it’s a place to rest when they are tired, to find company when they are lonely, and to feel safe in a way that may be rare in their daily lives.

Through the generosity of Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, safety, compassion, and connection are becoming a reality for those who need it most .

New Horizons Seniors Centre

At the Kenora New Horizons Seniors Centre, the sound of laughter now echoes a little louder, and the sense of connection runs a little deeper—thanks to the support of the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation.

With a $17,000 grant, the Centre has expanded its reach and programming, creating more opportunities for seniors across the community to come together, stay active, and feel a sense of belonging. From bowling and swimming to yoga, cooking, darts, and the increasingly popular cardio drumming program and chair yoga programs, the Centre helps older adults rediscover joy in movement and connection.

The impact is especially meaningful for seniors who may otherwise spend long stretches of time at home—particularly during the region’s long winters. By offering welcoming, accessible programs, the Centre is opening its doors to individuals of all cultures and backgrounds, ensuring everyone has a place to feel included.

As seen in the photos, participants beam with pride and enthusiasm during a cardio drumming session, an activity that blends rhythm, exercise, and camaraderie. Using large exercise balls and drumsticks, the group shares not just a workout, but moments of laughter and friendship that carry well beyond the class. Chair yoga is also a exercise class that is joined by many.

Beyond recreation, the Centre plays a vital role in the community. It serves as a hub for various seniors’ groups and provides administrative and dispatch services for Kenora Handi Transit, helping ensure seniors can stay mobile and engaged.

This investment is about more than activities—it’s about improving quality of life. By reducing isolation and fostering social connections, the programs supported by the Foundation are helping to lower rates of loneliness and depression among local seniors.

Together, the Kenora New Horizons Seniors Centre and the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation are building a stronger, more connected community—one smile, one conversation, and one drumbeat at a time.

Therapeutic Paws Make Positive Connections

With wagging tails and gentle companionship, Therapeutic Paws of Canada (TPOC) is transforming lives—one visit at a time.

Thanks to the generous support of the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation, the Kenora chapter of TPOC has expanded its ability to bring the healing power of therapy animals to people of all ages across the region.

This grant helped enhance TPOC Kenora’s visibility and professionalism through the addition of new uniforms, outreach materials, and event equipment, including a tent, banner, tables, and chairs. Volunteers were also better supported with tools such as “Pet Me” sleeves, leashes, and educational trading cards—helping create safe, welcoming, and engaging interactions with the public.

These improvements have allowed the team to connect more effectively, grow its volunteer base, and raise awareness about the many benefits of therapy animals in promoting comfort, connection, and emotional well-being.

With increased capacity, TPOC Kenora has broadened its reach across a wide range of settings—including hospitals, schools, long-term care homes, and community organizations. The team has also introduced new initiatives such as workplace wellness visits, including staff appreciation events, corporate “PAWS Rooms,” and wellness fairs, supporting mental health in professional environments.

With stronger community presence and enhanced resources, TPOC Kenora is better equipped to respond to the growing demand for therapy pet visits. The result is a deeper, wider impact—reaching more individuals and fostering meaningful moments of connection across all age groups.

Through the support of community funding, Therapeutic Paws continues to make a lasting difference, bringing comfort, companionship, and healing where it’s needed most.

Helping Hands for Wabseemong’s Canine Companions

Community Foundation Grant Supports Animal Health, Training, and Youth Engagement

In the summer of 2025, a dedicated animal welfare initiative—supported by the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation—brought vital veterinary care and hands-on learning opportunities to the community of Wabseemong.

Through this grant, the Grey Bruce Aboriginal Qimmiq Team (GBAQT) traveled from Southern Ontario to deliver complimentary canine veterinary services, helping to ensure the health and safety of local dogs. For more than thirteen years, GBAQT has worked in partnership with Indigenous communities across Northern Ontario, providing culturally respectful and compassionate care to canine populations.

During the Wabseemong clinic, the impact was both immediate and far-reaching. Over fifty dogs were spayed or neutered, helping to support long-term population health. More than one hundred dogs were tested for heartworm, with only three positive cases identified—all of which received appropriate treatment and preventative care. In addition, 49 dogs received comprehensive wellness checks, including vaccinations and parasite control, ensuring they left the clinic healthier and better protected.

Beyond the clinical care, the grant also created meaningful opportunities for community learning and engagement. A key objective was to build local capacity by involving volunteers and youth in the process. In advance of the clinic, high school students participated in an educational session covering grooming, careers in animal care, and post-surgical support for dogs. During the clinic itself, eight community members were present each day, actively assisting and gaining valuable, hands-on experience in canine care and recovery.

This initiative highlights the powerful ripple effect of community-based philanthropy. Not only were dozens of animals cared for, but local knowledge was strengthened, youth were inspired, and new connections to potential career pathways were formed.

Through grants like this, the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation continues to invest in the health and well-being of communities—supporting initiatives that bring people together, build skills, and create lasting impact for both residents and their four-legged companions.

Celebrating Culture, Connection, and Community

National Indigenous Peoples Day at Makaatewaagmichewang Youth & Family Wellness Camp

On June 21, 2025, in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Kenora Chiefs Advisory (KCA), with support from the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation, brought the community together for a powerful day of learning, celebration, and connection at the Makaatewaagmichewang Youth and Family Wellness Camp.

This meaningful gathering continues a long-standing tradition of honoring the Anishinaabe First Nations of the Kenora region and Treaty 3, while creating space for Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to come together in the spirit of reconciliation.

Throughout the day, participants of all ages were immersed in vibrant, hands-on experiences that celebrated culture, language, and land. Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders generously shared their wisdom through storytelling sessions rooted in traditional oral histories and teachings. Language workshops introduced participants to Anishinaabemowin, strengthening connections to culture and identity.

Creativity flourished during art and craft workshops, where participants learned traditional techniques such as beadwork and dream catcher making. The rhythmic heartbeat of the drum guided music and dance activities, inviting attendees to experience powwow traditions in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Outdoors, land-based learning sessions deepened understanding of local plants, medicines, and sustainable practices—reaffirming the deep relationship between people and the land.

This event was more than a celebration—it was a living expression of community impact. By supporting this initiative, the Community Foundation helped:

Honour and showcase Anishinaabe culture
Build stronger relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people
Promote education and advance reconciliation
Strengthen community connections and engagement
Ensure the transfer of knowledge from Elders to future generations
Contribute to local tourism and economic vitality

The Makaatewaagmichewang Youth and Family Wellness Camp provided the perfect setting for reflection, learning, and shared experience—reinforcing the importance of cultural understanding and respect in building a stronger, more connected community.

Through partnerships like this, the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation continues to support initiatives that celebrate identity, foster inclusion, and create lasting impact across the region.

Supporting Priority Health Care Close at Home

Community Foundation Invests $100,000 in Diagnostic Imaging for the Region

Access to timely, high-quality health care is essential to the well-being of any community—especially in rural and northern regions where distance can often be a barrier. In the summer of 2025, the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation took a significant step toward improving local health care by committing a $100,000 grant—pledged over five years—to the Beyond the Scan Campaign at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital.

This transformational investment supports the creation of a new Diagnostic Imaging Centre of Excellence, bringing advanced medical technology to the region, including MRI, CT scanning, and enhanced mammography services. These upgrades will dramatically improve access to diagnostic care, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances and ensuring earlier detection and treatment for a wide range of health conditions.

“Our Community Foundation recently launched a new strategic plan, and one of our goals is to support multi-year, high-impact projects for our community,” said Past President Shannon Robinson. “Bringing advanced diagnostic imaging technology to Kenora is exactly the kind of initiative we envisioned—one that builds long-term capacity to serve both our community and the broader region.”

This grant also reflects the power of partnership. By working alongside the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation, the Community Foundation is helping to amplify the impact of local philanthropy.

“As a Community Foundation, collaboration is at the heart of what we do,” said President Darcia Curtis. “By supporting projects that are vital to our community and surrounding areas, we can achieve far more together than we could alone. This investment will help remove barriers to care and ensure people can access essential diagnostic services closer to home.”

The impact of this leadership gift is already being felt. According to Executive Director Mira Trebilcock, the contribution represents more than just funding—it is a reflection of community spirit.

“This is a momentous gift toward a truly community-driven initiative,” she said. “It not only moves us closer to our campaign goal, but also demonstrates the strength of collaboration and collective care in Kenora. Local investment in local health care sends a powerful message—and we are incredibly grateful to the Community Foundation for helping bring this vision to life.”

Through this commitment, the Community Foundation continues to demonstrate how endowed giving can create lasting, meaningful impact. By supporting priority health care initiatives like the Beyond the Scan Campaign, donors are helping to build a healthier, more resilient future—right here at home.

Opening Doors Through Education: The Lasting Impact of Bursary Giving

At the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation, we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams—regardless of financial barriers. Each year, thanks to the generosity and vision of our donors, graduating students across the region receive bursary support that helps turn those dreams into reality.

Bursaries are more than financial assistance. They are a powerful expression of community care—ensuring that students with demonstrated financial need can access post-secondary education and build brighter futures for themselves, their families, and our region.

A Community Investing in Its Youth

In 2025, the Community Foundation proudly awarded bursaries to graduates from Bimose Community High School, Beaver Brae Secondary School, and Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. Each ceremony was filled with pride and excitement, celebrating not only academic achievement, but also leadership, creativity, resilience, and community involvement.

These awards were made possible through a diverse range of donor-established funds, including:

Wauzhusk Onigum Education Bursaries
Roger and Jane Swanson Music Education Bursaries
Royal Canadian Legion Branch #13 Bursaries
Forest Capital of Canada Bursary Awards
Knights of Columbus Bursary Awards
Miss Cookie–Carol Wicks Bursary Fund
Women’s Place Kenora Bursary Fund
Michael R. Douglas Indigenous Student Bursary Award

Each fund reflects a unique story of generosity—individuals, families, and organizations choosing to invest in the next generation.

Celebrating Student Achievement

Among this year’s recipients were exceptional students whose accomplishments and aspirations stood out:

Lazarus Constant (Bimose Community High School), recipient of the Wauzhusk Onigum Education Bursary
James Bell (Beaver Brae Secondary School), recipient of both the Miss Cookie–Carol Wicks Bursary and the Roger and Jane Swanson Music Education Bursary
Julian Rhind (Beaver Brae Secondary School), recipient of the Forest Capital of Canada and Wauzhusk Onigum bursaries
Samantha Oldford (Beaver Brae Secondary School), recipient of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #13 Bursary
Sophie Muise (Saint Thomas Aquinas High School), recipient of the Women’s Place Kenora bursary
Wyatt Greer (Saint Thomas Aquinas High School), recipient of the Forest Capital of Canada bursary
Diana Soto Payares, West Ranville, and Kolton Emond, recipients of Knights of Columbus bursaries
Javan Ura (Saint Thomas Aquinas High School), recipient of both the Roger and Jane Swanson Music Education Bursary and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #13 Bursary

Looking Ahead

Applications for the 2026 bursary program will open soon, and graduating students are encouraged to connect with their high school guidance counsellors for more information.

For those inspired to make a lasting impact, establishing a bursary fund is one of the most meaningful ways to give back. By investing in education, donors help shape the future of our region—one student at a time.

Great Grants Empowering