In the heart of Southeastern Alberta, one family’s dedication to philanthropy has become a cornerstone of community support. Frances and Drew Barnes, alongside their middle son Davis Barnes, his wife Deborah, and their four children, have turned an initial act of kindness into a multi-generational commitment to giving back.
The Barnes family’s journey in philanthropy began with a simple gesture. “We kind of got inspired when Davis, our middle boy, was in junior high,” Frances recalls. “He had a friend who wanted to play soccer, but his single mom couldn’t afford it. That’s when we heard about KidSport. They covered all the costs, and we just thought it was amazing!”
This experience planted the seed for a deeper involvement in community giving. Drew later discovered the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta, which enabled the family to extend their generosity far beyond a one-time donation. “Someone suggested that instead of just donating to KidSport, we could give to the Community Foundation and support KidSport, forever,” Frances explains.
In December 2012, the Barnes Family Fund was created as a donor-advised fund. This structure allows the family to decide each year how their fund distributions are allocated. Over the years, they have supported numerous youth-focused organizations, including KidSport, Be Youth Centre, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Praxis Outreach Society, and Junior Achievement, among others.
A cherished tradition for the Barnes family is their annual Thanksgiving discussion about giving. “Thanksgiving is when our boys are usually home,” says Frances. “We have conversations about where to give our money that year because we’re giving thanks for living in such a nice community and having the ability to give back.”
The family’s commitment extends beyond financial contributions. “We also give a lot of our volunteer time,” Drew adds. “And we try to encourage our children to get involved as well.”
For Frances, the enduring impact of their fund is particularly meaningful. “The big thing that I love is that we will forever be giving money to Medicine Hat and Southeastern Alberta communities. It’s not a one-and-done. It is forever. That word, ‘forever,’ is my why.”
Drew shares his sentiment. “At the end of the day, it’s heartwarming to look back at all the groups we’ve helped in small ways. I’m so glad that will continue long past us.”
Their son Davis is equally passionate about continuing the family’s philanthropic legacy. “Our goal is to take the values of charitable giving that my parents instilled in me and my brothers and continue supporting these great organizations year after year,” he says.
Through their fund, the Barnes family has built a legacy that will benefit Southeastern Alberta for generations to come. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of how even the smallest acts of kindness can grow into something extraordinary, inspiring others to give back and strengthen their communities.