The Shah Family Foundation is honoured to partner with the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons (CFPDP) through a transformative gift of $1.3 million. This landmark contribution supports the “A Seat at the Table” (SATT) initiative, creating 13 endowment funds to provide perpetual financial support for students with disabilities across Canada.
The endowments, named in honour of CFPDP’s founder, The Honourable Vim Kochhar, embody his legacy of advancing accessibility and equity. By funding these endowments, the Shah Family Foundation is fostering opportunities for students to overcome barriers, pursue post-secondary education, and build thriving careers as future leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
“This initiative reflects our family’s core belief that education is the gateway to empowerment,” says Kris Shah, President of the Shah Family Foundation. “Our commitment is to remove barriers and create pathways for students with disabilities, ensuring they have access to resources and opportunities to achieve their aspirations.”
Building a Pan-Canadian Legacy
This initiative will establish endowments in each province and territory, providing enduring support to students who often face systemic challenges in accessing higher education. The collective effort of matching funds from universities and CFPDP will amplify the Shah Family Foundation’s contribution to a remarkable $2.82 million nationwide impact.
The foundation’s partnership with CFPDP builds on SATT’s broader mission to advance diversity in corporate boardrooms by fostering leadership among individuals with disabilities. By empowering students to achieve their academic goals, the initiative also nurtures the next generation of decision-makers ready to shape inclusive workplaces and communities.
Honouring a Visionary Leader
For over 40 years, The Honourable Vim Kochhar has dedicated his life to creating opportunities for persons with disabilities. The Shah Family Foundation’s decision to name the endowments after him underscores the profound impact of his work and inspires others to continue building a more inclusive Canada.
A Shared Vision for Inclusion
As part of the Shah Family Foundation’s broader mission to ensure equitable access to education and healthcare, this partnership exemplifies the foundation’s dedication to building sustainable communities. Together with CFPDP, the foundation aims to create a ripple effect of positive change, extending opportunities to those who need them most.
