CFSEA distributes $10,000 to “The Beej Project” through the Niwa Family Fund
The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta values all their respected donors. One of the many ways donors choose to create a lasting legacy is through a Donor Advised Fund. Donor Advised Funds allow donors to make charitable contributions to their fund as frequently as they wish and receive an immediate tax deduction. They then choose charities to receive their fund distributions, year after year.
Marie Niwa and Gregory J. Niwa established “The Niwa Family Fund” in 2001 as a Donor Advised Fund. Over the years, they have funded many worthy community projects and programs, such as 4H Clubs, Museums, the Food Bank, and even a Skating Rink dressing room.
Brandon Niwa - affectionately known as “Beej.”
Four generations of the Niwa family - Gregory J. Niwa, Lindsay Niwa-Mathers, Parker Mathers, Marie Niwa. Pictured from November 2019 Shaw Spotlight Video.
In 2020 the Niwa Family established the Brandon Niwa Legacy Fund, affectionately known as “The Beej Project”, in memory of Brandon Niwa. The Beej Project is overseen by the Medicine Hat College (MHC) in support of mental health education and research. The Niwa Family Fund at CFSEA now annually distributes their funds to support the ongoing work of the Beej Project at Medicine Hat College.
“I believe in supporting and giving back to a community that has been very good to our family and business for over 40 years. Contributing to the Community Foundation through the Niwa Family Fund means I can help people now and leave a lasting legacy in the future. Being able to choose to designate our grant to the Beej Project every year means we can continue to honour Brandon’s legacy and support mental health education for generations to come.” - Gregory J. Niwa
This year, the Niwa Family Fund distributed $10,000 to support the Brandon Niwa Legacy Fund at the Medicine Hat College.
“Medicine Hat College is honoured to be involved with the Beej Project, recognizing the value it provides for mental health awareness and action in Southeast Alberta. The Beej Project creates an open space for community members to share their experiences, connects people with local professionals, and supports educational initiatives for students and our communities.” – Jennifer Kerslake, Director, Community Engagement
For more information about establishing a Donor Advised Fund with the Community Foundation or to donate to the Beej Project, please connect with the CFSEA office at 403.527.9038. To learn more about the Beej Project, connect with the Medicine Hat College, Community Engagement – 403.502.8997.