Grant and Funding Programs Offered by TJ's Gift Foundation

Role of TJ's Gift Foundation in the funding ecosystem

TJ's Gift Foundation is a charitable foundation created in memory of TJ Wiebe to prevent youth drug involvement across Manitoba. Originating from the TJ Wiebe Educational Awareness Fund in the Louis Riel School Division, the foundation has expanded its reach to multiple school divisions in Winnipeg and remote or northern communities. Its core role is to provide financial assistance and structured programs that empower young people to educate their peers about the dangers of drugs and to choose healthy, drug‑free lifestyles.

The foundation operates a dedicated fund through which students and teachers can access money to design and deliver peer‑education projects on drug awareness. These projects must inform youth about drugs and their real effects, challenge social norms that portray drug use as acceptable, and build confidence to say no to drugs. Access to the fund requires a project plan, pledges of non‑involvement with illegal drugs from participants, and a final report once activities are completed.

Main programs and types of support

• School Programs and project funding: TJ's Gift provides financial assistance to kids and educators for projects where students research aspects of drug involvement and share their learning with peers. Approved groups receive funding to cover project expenses, with support conditional on reporting outcomes.
• TJ’s Champions Awards: An annual awards program that recognizes youth, volunteers and service providers in Manitoba who help young people remain drug free. The foundation manages the nomination process, selection committee and public recognition of recipients.
• Rockin’ for Choices and Battle of the Bands: Large‑scale concerts and music events, offered free of charge to students, where local bands and TJ’s family share messages about staying away from drugs. These events often serve as catalysts for further youth‑led initiatives.
• Soaring Eagles Conference and leadership workshops: Conferences and workshops for students, especially from northern or remote communities, that equip them with leadership skills and resources to return home as mentors and advocates for drug‑free living.
• Educational resources: The foundation develops and shares curriculum links to the Manitoba Physical Education curriculum, teacher reading lists on youth and drugs, pledge cards, and other tools that support educators and families.

General approach to eligibility and assessment

In its funded School Programs, TJ's Gift Foundation focuses on peer‑education initiatives led by students, often in partnership with teachers. Proposals must outline learning objectives, how information will be shared with other youth, and how the program will address attitudes and social norms around drug use. A core requirement is that all participants pledge they are not involved with illegal drugs and commit to educating their peers about associated risks.

For the TJ’s Champions Awards, nominees must reside in Manitoba and can be youth under 18, volunteers, or service providers working with children and teens. A structured nomination package, including a statement of nomination, letters of support, résumé or background information, and a photo, is reviewed by a selection committee to determine award recipients.

Publics served and overall impact

TJ's Gift Foundation primarily serves school‑aged youth across Manitoba, along with educators, volunteers and community groups that support drug‑free lifestyles. By combining financial support for student‑led projects with high‑impact presentations, conferences, and awards, the foundation strengthens youth leadership, builds awareness of the consequences of drug involvement and supports communities in promoting healthier choices for young people.