THE McFARLANE FAMILY FOUNDATION

THE McFARLANE FAMILY FOUNDATION is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and institutions in the areas of health, education, amateur sport, and the arts. Registered as a private foundation under the business number 843653155RR0001, it aims to enable young and local heroes to build and achieve their personal bests through motivation and community support.

History and Background

The foundation was established in 1997 by Cathleen McFarlane Ross, who was deeply committed to helping community-based causes, especially those related to homelessness, addiction, and the arts. Drawing from her experience in theater, television, and film, Ross supported numerous cultural institutions, including the Kravis Center, The Society of the Four Arts, and the George Bernard Shaw Festival in Niagara on the Lake, Canada. Upon her death in 2010, she left proceeds from her estate to fund the foundation, significantly increasing its capacity to fulfill its charitable mission.

Mission and Activities

The McFarlane Family Foundation focuses on enabling others to achieve by supporting a wide range of endeavors. Its core pillars are health, education, amateur sport, and the arts, with a strong emphasis on youth advocacy and mental health. The foundation is known for its involvement in the Jack Ride, an event symbolizing community motivation and collective effort to improve mental health systems and support young people.

The foundation operates with the belief that motivation and mutual support are critical to personal and community development. It supports both individuals and institutions that demonstrate commitment to these areas, aiming to create lasting change and opportunities for those less fortunate, particularly in the context of mental health, homelessness, and substance abuse recovery.

Recognition and Status

THE McFARLANE FAMILY FOUNDATION is recognized as a registered charity by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), with the designation as a private foundation that benefits the community through funding various organizations and initiatives aligned with its mission.

This summary reflects the foundation's dedication to fostering achievement and community well-being, continuing Cathleen McFarlane Ross's legacy of philanthropy and social impact.