Gene and Gladys Krepakevich approached the Community Foundation to help them to achieve their philanthropic goals. The couple had made several donations and when their donations reached the threshold for a “named” fund, they decided they would like their gifts to help families.
“I have seen the challenges that families sometimes face, through no fault of their own, and how hard it can be for their children,” says Gene, a retired educator. “Gladys and I agree that if we can help in some way, that is what we would like to do.”
Gladys and Gene are both well known in the community for their cheerful disposition and generosity. They say their circumstances are “comfortable”, and they credit their upbringing with the desire to help others.
“Growing up, my brother and I would often argue over a toy or the last piece of roast or whatever, as brothers do,” says Gene. His mother would often say, “Boys, you must learn to share. Share first with each other and then share with the world.”
The Krepakevich Fund for Families is an endowed fund where the principal amount collected through donations remains intact and is invested. That generates the grants available in subsequent years. Other donors are welcome to add to the fund or can donate to build their own named fund once their donations reach $5,000.
The Krepakevich Fund for Families currently totals $55,000, thanks to donations made by Gene and Gladys. The fund will generate an annual grant of $1,650 after its first year and will grow over time. Applications for access to grants from the fund will be announced during the Yorkton & District Community Foundation’s annual call for proposals early in 2022.
