Empower Simcoe Foundation

The Empower Simcoe Foundation is a Canadian registered charity established in 1998, dedicated to raising funds in support of Empower Simcoe's programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Operating under the business registration number 896155629RR0001, the Foundation plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for people of all abilities by funding initiatives where regular government or institutional resources are unavailable.

History and Background

The Foundation was created to back Empower Simcoe, an organization initially founded in 1953 by parents seeking alternatives to institutional care for their children with disabilities. While Empower Simcoe delivers direct community and family support services, the Foundation focuses on mobilizing funding to sustain and expand these efforts.

Mission and Objectives

Empower Simcoe Foundation’s mission is to foster an inclusive society by providing financial resources that enable people with intellectual disabilities to lead full and enriched lives. It raises funds to support a wide range of services, including:

• Purchase of accessibility equipment
• Specialized housing needs
• Family respite assistance
• Recreational and leisure activities for adults and seniors
• Youth skills development programs
• Camp opportunities for children

The Foundation emphasizes respect, dignity, and empowerment, ensuring that beneficiaries have opportunities to Be, Belong, and Thrive within their communities.

Activities and Fundraising

The Foundation organizes multiple fundraising events annually, notably:

• A golf tournament held every June
• The Celebrating Community Champions Fashion Show conducted each October

In addition to these, various campaigns and special fundraising initiatives are conducted throughout the year to generate support for Empower Simcoe’s programs.

Impact

By addressing funding gaps, the Empower Simcoe Foundation helps improve the lives of over 1,300 children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities served by Empower Simcoe. Many beneficiaries live at or below the poverty line, where even basic amenities can be unattainable, making the Foundation's work essential to provide inclusive opportunities and necessary supports.

The Empower Simcoe Foundation symbolizes a vital partnership in community support for people with disabilities, ensuring continued development, accessibility, and inclusivity within Simcoe County and beyond.