The Foundation began in 1972 as an arm of the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO). Awards & scholarships were provided by donations from RNAO members to support further studies for member nurses.

In the early 90's the Foundation was in jeopardy as a viable entity, as a small number of members provided the bulk of the income. The Board of the Foundation recognized a need to increase the number and value of the awards, and to target the greater population of nurses. A shortage of nurses and rising tuition costs accelerated this need.

In 1997 four individuals set out to revitalize the Foundation with a broader set of goals and to separate from the RNAO umbrella. Since then the organization has been rebuilding itself to provide greater financial support for all eligible nurses in the province.

Over the past 30 years over 200 awards & scholarships have been given to deserving nurses across Ontario. In 2007 we will be providing 38 awards & scholarships in the amount of $66,500.

Today nurses, friends, corporations and the public contribute to the scholarship funds; investments now total just over a million dollars. The Board is focusing on fund-raising activities to further increase its capability to support nurses.

Over the past seven years RNFOO has promoted fund-raising through our annual Gala. The Gala has been successful in showcasing the revitalized Foundation. Plans to celebrate the 35th anniversary of RNFOO in 2007 promise another outstanding event.

For more information on our annual Gala please click here.