Latest News

Read below to learn how donor support is helping youth thrive and to stay up to date on the Foundation’s events and happenings.

Student-led fundraiser demonstrates the power of community

Grade 12 student Jyanne Alimano, turns a personal passion into action and enhancement for her community through a school project.

Welcoming incoming Executive Director

We are excited to be moving full strength ahead as Kathryn McBurney joins us in early April as the incoming Executive Director for Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation. Kathryn and Jane Kidd-Hantscher will work collaboratively over the next few months supporting youth across Manitoba including Claire, our current ambassador. She will take the organizational reins this June upon Jane’s retirement.

Leadership transition for Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation

Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation is preparing for a leadership transition as current Executive Director, Jane Kidd-Hantscher, has provided her intention to retire in June 2026. Her planned retirement next year is the culmination of a nearly thirty-five-year career in our province’s private, public and non-profit sectors.

One Child’s Dream 2025 – Thom’s Story

As we lead into this holiday season, it’s an honour to introduce you to 10–year-old Thomas, affectionately known as “Thom-Thom” by his family. A remarkable young boy, his growth and determination demonstrate the positive impact of donor support.

Promoting participation: RCC team transforms VR controller for client use

When Declan Desjarlais struggled to hold a VR controller due to limited hand function, he turned to the Rehabilitation Centre for Children for support. Working together, his occupational therapist and a clinical engineering technologist designed a custom attachment that secures the controller to his wrist. The simple yet innovative solution not only improved comfort and accessibility but also gave Declan more freedom, independence and confidence while gaming.

Helping students thrive: How an outreach OT makes a difference in Manitoba schools

For many students, school is more than academics. It’s a place to build independence, develop life skills and connect with peers. Behind the scenes, school Occupational Therapists (OT) play a crucial role in making this possible for students who live with disabilities. Lea Trudeau has been working as an OT in Manitoba school districts for five years. Her focus - making school communities and classroom life accessible and inclusive.

Eleven-year-old Kio discovers confidence, camaraderie and competition through Boccia

Parents of children living with disabilities often face challenges finding suitable recreational activities that support their child’s needs. For eleven-year-old Kio Andres, who has been receiving support from the Rehabilitation Centre for Children since 2018 following his cerebral palsy diagnosis, discovering a passion for the sport of boccia has brought joy, connection and a sense of belonging to both him and his family.

A Family’s Mission to Pay it Forward Supporting Cruisin’

Eleven-year-old Hayden Cecchini and his family are going the extra mile to give back to CRF at the Cruisin’ to Change Lives event raising funds through a neighbourhood cookie sale and a home-based nail salon to help purchase adapted equipment for another child.