Summary
When life takes an unexpected turn, it’s the strength of a community that helps us find our way. This is the inspiring story of the You First Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting families affected by traumatic brain injuries. Founded in memory of Wendy Kwan, a beloved friend and colleague, the foundation is a demonstration of love, resilience, and the power of coming together. See how you can join this mission!Turning Tragedy into Triumph: Wendy Kwan’s Legacy
Wendy Kwan’s story is one of courage and unexpected heartbreak. At just 34 years old, Wendy passed away from a brain aneurysm, leaving behind her newborn child, who was delivered through emergency surgery. Her sudden death left a void in the hearts of her friends and colleagues at First Service Credit Union. To honor Wendy’s memory and support families facing similar tragedies, they came together to create the You First Foundation.
You First Foundation Mission: Transforming Lives Through Three Pillars
Breaking New Ground in Brain Research
The foundation partners with leading neurointensive and neurorecovery centers to support cutting-edge brain injury research. The goal is to turn today’s medical breakthroughs into tomorrow’s life-saving treatments.
Easing the Financial Burden
Medical crises can be financially crippling. The You First Foundation provides crucial financial assistance to families, helping them navigate the overwhelming costs associated with sudden brain injuries.
Investing in Education
The You First Foundation believes in the power of education to change lives. The YFF scholarship program supports children affected by brain injuries, giving them the resources they need to pursue their dreams and build brighter futures.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
Win Big, Give Big: The 2024 Chevy Silverado Raffle
This year, the Foundation’s annual raffle brings an exciting opportunity for everyone to contribute to a great cause. With a grand prize of a 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500, along with other amazing rewards, the raffle is a way to support the foundation's mission while having some fun.1 Each ticket helps fund scholarships and medical research for families affected by traumatic brain injuries. The raffle draw will take place on October 7, and the prizes include:
1st Place: A 2024 Chevy Silverado 1500
2nd Place: $1500 in Visa gift cards
3rd Place: A Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
4th Place: A Meta Quest 3 Virtual Reality Headset
Swing for a Cause: The Annual Wendy Kwan Memorial Golf Tournament
Every year, the Foundation honors Wendy’s memory with a golf tournament that brings people together in the spirit of generosity and remembrance. This event is the foundation’s largest fundraiser, with all proceeds going towards scholarships and support for brain injury victims and their families. Participants enjoy a day of golf, camaraderie, and the satisfaction of knowing they are making a difference.
Scholarships: Empowering Dreams, One Student at a Time
Since the You First Foundation began its scholarship program, they’ve awarded over $240,000 to deserving students. These scholarships, up to $6,000 each, provide essential support to young people whose lives have been disrupted by traumatic medical events, helping them pursue their educational goals.
Why First Service Credit Union Stands with the You First Foundation
First Service Credit Union’s support for the You First Foundation extends beyond just the financial. It’s a commitment to our core values of compassion, community, and resilience. By backing the foundation, we honor Wendy Kwan’s memory and offer vital support to families facing their toughest challenges.
The You First Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible. (Tax ID# 47-2241098)