Page 10 - ECF-LIA-June-Summer-2024-flipbook

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10
LEGACY IN ACTION
A FAMILY TRADITION
THE SAVARD FAMILY PASSES DOWN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
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BY JOELLE FAGAN
KIM AND SHANE SAVARD grew up mostly unaware of the extent of their parents’ philanthropic work within the Edmonton community. The siblings describe their parents, Don and Donna,
as private individuals. Their attitudes towards their charitable actions were discreet and modest, and they flew
under the radar. Amongst other
charitable giving, the couple established an endowment fund with Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF), which ultimately has become the legacy that their children, and grandchildren, now care for. “Supporting community has always been something our family has valued and our endowment fund at ECF is
a wonderful way we can carry on the tradition that our parents started,”
says Kim.
Kim and Shane became aware of
the philanthropic work following their father’s death as Donna continued to enhance the impact that their donations made in the community.
After her passing, the siblings started dedicating some of their time to honour their parents’ philanthropic spirit.
The two explore ways that they can sustain and grow the legacy by not only maintaining existing donations but also through preserving the values that their parents embodied.
On an annual basis, Kim’s and Shane’s families meet to curate possible charities
before ultimately deciding on the one that the fund will support. Family members research causes that are examples of “effective altruism” and then present their rationales for allocating their portions of the total family fund to their selected charities. Don and Donna’s legacy
has helped inform the family’s interest in funding causes that promote well-being and success
for disadvantaged children and Edmontonians affected by poverty, hunger and other crises. This includes health organizations that prioritize research, prevention and cures, with those focusing on lung cancer research being given a high priority.
Donna and Don Savard
In addition to these annual meetings, the two families have each developed a family charter which outlines the shared values and vision for the future. By getting their young- adult children engaged in the process, Kim and Shane are confident that this next generation will be equipped to carry their grandparents’ and parents’ legacy forward.
Shane expresses gratitude
on behalf of the family, saying, “Edmonton is truly blessed
with numerous compassionate organizations diligently improving the lives of our community members. We owe them a heartfelt thanks for their unwavering dedication.”
Front Row (L to R): Kellen Forrest, Colton Savard Back Row (L to R): Ethan Forrest, Jim Forrest, Kim Savard, Donna Savard, Alix Savard, Shane Savard
“Edmonton is truly blessed with numerous compassionate organizations diligently improving the lives of our community members.”
— Shane Savard
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