Welcome to the Whitearn Foundation
The Whitearn Foundation was founded in 1997 by Miss Barbara Whitley
in memory of her father Ernest Whitley, a prominent Montreal businessman.
Our mission
About The Foundation
The guiding principle in all of the Foundation’s activities is the idea that we must improve the lives of those living with visual disabilities. Whether it is through our support of innovative medical research or by fostering unique rehabilitation programs that provide tools and training to people living with a loss of vision, we aim to make a difference.
Our founder, Barbara Whitley, was a woman of action. The Whitearn Foundation was started to honour her father, Ernie Whitley. He had lost sight in one eye in his youth due to a school yard accident. Barbara Whitley subsequently became interested in the field of ophthalmology and became a great supporter of Montreal’s health institutions. She believed that community involvement was essential to the advancement of society and that dedicated people make a difference. Today, The Whitearn Foundation continues to uphold her legacy in philanthropy through ethical stewardship and its dedication to our founder’s cause.
The Foundation seeks to support innovative and measurable initiatives, through its awarding of grants, that align with its mission and vision.
Our areas of impact are:
- Research
- Equipment
- Outreach