How We Came to Be
History
We set down roots in 1999 as a registered charity. Originally called the Waskesiu Townsite Society Inc., our first project was to facilitate the resurfacing of the tennis courts.
In 2001, a severe outbreak of spruce budworm posed a threat to the white spruce forest in Waskesiu. The community urged Parks Canada to take action - which they did - on the condition the community raise and contribute about two-thirds of the total cost. This led to our leadership role in accepting donations, which meant our mandate had to be expanded and charitable purposes updated. At the same time, we changed our name to The Waskesiu Foundation Inc.
The response from the community for funding to fight the spruce budworm infestation was immediate and successful. Community leaders quickly recognized that more – much more – could be accomplished in Waskesiu through us. Their instincts proved to be correct.
Today, we continue to be strong and vibrant by partnering with community groups & donors, consistently identifying community-valued projects, raising sufficient funds, and constantly improving Waskesiu. Since 1999, we've raised over $4.6 million to re-invest in Waskesiu and area. Thanks to the generosity of donors and community partners, you can see (and enjoy) the results of that investment throughout the Waskesiu townsite, and beyond.
