Inspired by generosity: the Canterbury Woods schoolchildren fund

This past fall, 40 schoolchildren received a wonderful surprise as they prepared to head back to class. Canterbury Woods distributed $100 gift cards for school supplies to employees for the children and grandchildren who live with them, ensuring they were able to start the school year on the right foot.

The story of this new initiative begins with Canterbury Woods resident Joe Tada, whose passion for education and gratitude for the staff inspired him to give back in a meaningful way. “I wanted to do something for the staff, who have been so kind to me,” he explained. The result? The Foundation’s Canterbury Woods Schoolchildren Fund, established to support the educational dreams of employees’ K–12 children.

The fund serves as a testament to how inspiration can travel between communities. When Mr. Tada heard about a similar program at Casa de Mañana, the Front Porch community in La Jolla, he knew Canterbury Woods could create something equally meaningful.

At Casa de Mañana, the LaVerne & Walter King Schoolchild Support Endowment Fund (“King Fund”) was established through the Foundation in memory of Walter King’s wife, LaVerne. Walter King’s childhood struggles, including the embarrassment of not having adequate school supplies, motivated him to create a program that ensures frontline employees’ children have access to essential educational resources. His generosity set the stage for others to follow suit.

Joe Tada credits a conversation with Kimberly Manning, Foundation philanthropy officer, as the catalyst for the fund at his community. “When I learned about Casa’s program, I realized we could replicate it here at Canterbury Woods,” he said. “It’s nice to be in a position to be able to help others.” He also said that Elvyra Abare, former Canterbury Woods executive director, helped shape his broader interest in supporting education and helping Canterbury Woods retain its valued employees.

The Foundation Schoolchildren Funds exemplify the power of shared ideas and generosity, extending support from one community to another. What started as a vision in one person’s heart has blossomed into a program that touches the lives of employees and their children, affirming the value of education and the spirit of giving.

Originally published in the Winter 2025 edition of Community Matters