Giving back to their community has always been important to Kaylynn and Darrell Schroeder. While they’ve lived across Canada as Kaylynn filled executive roles, they’ve kept one key part of their rural roots with them wherever they go — a spirit of community involvement and care for others.
“We came from a place where community was important, where everybody pitched in — for the sports day, the curling rink, the skating rink,” says Kaylynn, who grew up outside of Yorkton and Darrell, who grew up and later farmed near Chamberlain.
For more than 20 years, the couple have supported health-care philanthropy, learning where help is needed most. Kaylynn served on the RUH Foundation’s Volunteer Board of Directors for many years, including serving as board chair in 2022-23.
As a result of this involvement, in 2023 the Schroeders chose to recognize Royal University Hospital (RUH) Foundation as a beneficiary in their Wills.
“What gives me comfort in the gift that we’re giving is our faith in the Foundation to steward that money properly, and make sure things get done the way they need to. The Foundation has earned our trust,” says Kaylynn, who served on the RUH Foundation board for nearly a decade.
In addition to their legacy gift, the Schroeders decided to make a major contribution to RUH with a gift that will fund the first dementia-friendly hospital ward in Canada.
The decision was motivated by their own experiences with loved ones experiencing dementia, and a desire to support others going through this. A visit to the hospital confirmed the need for this type of dedicated space at RUH, adding that their goal is to support both patients and their families, as Darrell says, “to make their lives a little easier.”
Even though they may never meet these families, they have a philosophy of giving that considers how others can benefit from what they are able to contribute. Kaylynn shares a quote that has inspired her over many years.
“I continue to be inspired by D. Elton Trueblood’s quote: ‘It takes a noble man to plant a seed for a tree that will someday give shade to people he may never meet,’” she says.
When you meet the Schroeders, you’re left with a deep appreciation of their kindness and care for others — even those they don’t know.
“We may never know them, and we don’t need to know them. We just need to know that they’re okay,” says Kaylynn.
Planned giving is one powerful way to share this type of generosity with others.
“I think leaving a gift in your Will is the easiest way to give back,” says Kaylynn. The Schroeders say that starting the estate planning process early let them influence how their gift would be used and shape the impact of their contribution, while giving them the satisfaction of knowing how these funds would be used.
“Coming forward early lets the Foundation know the gift is coming and work with you to channel it in the right direction,” says Kaylynn.
Planning ahead also helps loved ones during what is already a difficult time and ensures there are no surprises — “so nobody has to guess.”
RUH Foundation thanks the Schroeders for their generous support — through both volunteer service and philanthropy — and helping strengthen dementia care at RUH.
For more information on how to leave a lasting legacy through your future giving plans with RUH Foundation, please contact Candace Boersma, Legacy Giving and Donor Relations Officer at 306.655.1984 or info@ruhf.org. with no obligation.
