The Hitchcock Family Foundation Fund: A Family Legacy of Giving Back
Jon and Shirley Hitchcock have long been committed to making a difference in their community. For years, they believed in the power of giving back, first as individuals, and now as a family. Their passion for philanthropy has passed down through the generations, and today, the Hitchcock Family Foundation Fund, held at the WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF), stands as a testament to their dedication to the community they call home.
They understood that while individual efforts can make a significant impact, the power of collective giving — especially when a family is involved — can create a ripple effect that changes lives. In 2015, Jon and Shirley established the Hitchcock Family Foundation Fund, with the intention of supporting various causes in the Windsor-Essex area, focusing on health, education, and community development.
From the very beginning, Jon and Shirley knew they wanted their children and grandchildren to be a part of this journey. They believed that philanthropy is not only about giving money but about instilling the values of generosity, empathy, and service. It was important to them that their family members were active participants in the decision-making process — learning firsthand the impact that thoughtful giving can have on the lives of others.
Over the years, the Hitchcock family has embraced their role in the foundation with enthusiasm and dedication. Their children, and now their grandchildren, are involved in selecting grant recipients. This allows them to understand how their contributions can help improve the lives of those in need. Each year, the Hitchcock Family Foundation Fund makes annual disbursements to local charities and initiatives that reflect the values Jon and Shirley hold dear — those that empower individuals, foster education, and strengthen the community.
The annual disbursement process has become a family tradition. An important requirement is to hand deliver each grant cheque. Each year, they allocate a portion of the annual grant to their four children’s families who select registered charities in their communities. Over the years, the eight grandchildren have had a turn to choose a charity and participate in delivering the grant cheque.
When they deliver the cheque, they get to meet with the people working there and find out what the charity is working on, their successes and their challenges. Through this involvement, they have learned that giving is not just about money — it’s about time, attention, and caring about their community.
The Hitchcock family’s commitment to community and philanthropy goes beyond financial support. They are known for rolling up their sleeves and volunteering their time, offering hands-on support to the organizations and causes they fund. Whether it’s helping at local food banks, volunteering, or providing mentorship, the Hitchcock family believes that the act of giving extends far beyond the writing of a cheque. It’s about being present and making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
The Hitchcock Family Foundation Fund at WECF has become a beacon of what family philanthropy can look like. It’s a model for future generations to follow — a legacy that will continue to impact the Windsor-Essex community and beyond for years to come. Through their generosity and commitment, Jon and Shirley have not only made a difference today but have ensured that their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren will carry the torch of philanthropy into the future.
By involving their entire family in the process, Jon and Shirley have created something much larger than a family fund; they have created a culture of giving that will continue to grow, evolve, and thrive. The Hitchcock Family Foundation Fund is a powerful example of how one family’s vision can make a lasting impact on the community and leave a legacy of kindness, compassion, and generosity for generations to come.
