Grayson and Jackson Peddle are nominated by the University of Saskatchewan for Youth in Philanthropy award for this year's National Philanthropy Day. (Photo: Submitted)

University of Saskatchewan honours four individuals on National Philanthropy Day

On National Philanthropy Day, November 15, charities and community organizations celebrate philanthropy and the many ways it impact our world for the better.

By Inalie Portades

In Saskatoon, this day is spent recognizing the positive contributions of donors, volunteers and non-profit organizations in the city and provides an opportunity to interact with other philanthropists.

Dr. That Ngo (BSc’69, SC’70, PhD’74). (Photo: Submitted)

This year’s celebration is unique and will take place virtually on the National Philanthropy Day Saskatoon Facebook page. The city’s local chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals is hosting the National Philanthropy Day Celebration Week from Nov. 15 to Nov. 19, 2020, where they will be sharing photos, videos, and stories of change-makers in the community. On this special week, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is proud to honour four nominees.

Brothers Jackson, 14, and Grayson Peddle, 9, are nominated for a Youth in Philanthropy award. The siblings turned their hobby of playing online video games to fundraise money in support of the USask's COVID-19 Research Fund. By streaming games online and support from friends and family, they surpassed their initial fundraising goal and raised $900. The Peddle siblings hope that their contribution will help in the effort to develop a vaccine and slowly return to their regular activities before the pandemic.

As a USask alumnus with three degrees (BSc’69, SC’70, PhD’74), Dr. That Ngo knows the importance of financial support towards attaining higher education. He established the That Ngo Fund for Study Abroad in the College of Arts and Science, allowing more students to participate in international learning experiences. The university is grateful for Dr. Ngo’s continued support of students and is excited to nominate him for an Honoured Supporter award.

Dr. Irene Evans (MD’63). (Photo: Submitted)

Dr. Irene Evans (MD’63) dedicated her life to health care and philanthropy. She spent her career and retirement volunteering for numerous charities that were close to her heart. Irene also created the Doctors Gwilym and Irene (Puetz) Evans Award with a $3,000,000 gift in her Will to financially assist students pursuing a medical degree at USask’s College of Medicine.

The award supports two annual bursaries up to $20,000 each and four annual scholarships with a minimum value of $5,000 each. Irene is remembered by her family, friends, and charities she supported through her kindness and heart of gold. USask is honoured to nominate Irene for the Legacy Leader Award for this year’s National Philanthropy Day.

For more information about the celebration, visit the National Philanthropy Day Saskatoon Facebook page.