Frequently Asked Questions

1. When and why was this Fund started?

This Fund was started in 1996 by the West family in memory of their Aunt Mary McCrorie (nee West) who was deeply affected when her sister developed Alzheimer Disease. Mary, like many relatives and caregivers of individuals suffering from this devastating disease, was significantly impacted by it, along with the patient. Her wish was to help find an effective treatment or cure for Alzheimer Disease so that families could have hope that their loved ones would not have to suffer its debilitating effects.

2. Why is Alzheimer Research Important?

Research into potential treatments or cures is extremely important. Beyond the immediate benefit to those with the disease, there is the fact that as life expectancy rises, increasing numbers of people will develop the disease. This will place a heavy burden on families and the health system to care for these individuals. Research provides the only way of stemming this trend. Research offers families hope for a cure so that they or their loved ones will not have to face this life-altering disease.

3. Why should I contribute to this Fund?

This Fund was started by a concerned family as a way to address the need to encourage research into the causes of Alzheimer Disease. They believe that by finding a treatment or cure, the burden on families will be reduced the greatest amount over the long term. The donations to the Fund are used 100% for this purpose. There is no administration charge to the Fund, as the University of Manitoba provides this service through The Department of Private Funding. There are other supports in the community for those with the disease and their family, should they require it. This Fund is the only one that exclusively targets research and is directed at supporting students at The University of Manitoba who will undertake studies focussed on finding an effective treatment or cure for Alzheimer Disease.

4. How will my donation be used?

Donations to the McCrorie-West Family Fellowship are made directly to the University of Manitoba who administer the Fund. All amounts contributed become part of the capital endowment for the Fund. The University of Manitoba conservatively manages the capital investment for the Fund. Currently, income earned from these investments supports an Award of $5,000 each year to a graduate student, who is pursuing studies leading to a career in research into the cause(s) of Alzheimer Disease and related dementia, with the goal of finding an effective treatment or cure. In addition to this initial Award, recipients may also receive a renewal of the Award for a second year for $5,000, as long as they continue to meet the qualifications as required for the Award. 

5. How can I contribute?

If you wish to contribute to the Fund, there are three options available to make a donation; 1- On-Line link to secure site at the University of Manitoba; 2- phone to the University of Manitoba and securely use your credit card. 3- Mail or Fax donation form downloaded from this site.

6. Can donations be made in memory of an individual or for a special occasion?

Absolutely! There have been many contributions made over the years in memory of someone. There have also been contributions made to honour a special occasion such as a birthday or Christmas present. In all cases, the University will send an acknowledgement to the affected family or individual on behalf of the donor. You will need to indicate where to send an acknowledgement with your contribution. You can of course remain anonymous if you wish.

7. Is it possible to pledge an amount over a period of time?

Yes, pledges can be made to contribute over a period of time, and a payment method and schedule set-up to accommodate the donor’s wishes. In order to set up a pledge, please contact the University through the phone number or link provided on our Contact page, please click (here).

8. Is my donation tax deductible?

All donations to the Fund, in care of The University of Manitoba, are fully tax deductible to Canadian taxpayers through a tax credit as per Revenue Canada guidelines for donations. The University of Manitoba issues tax receipts for all donations over $18.00 and is the custodian of all donated funds. Your receipt will be from the University but will also show that your donation has been allocated to the McCrorie-West Family Fellowship for Alzheimer Research.

   *U.S. taxpayers may also receive a tax deduction when they contribute. Please contact the University’s Department of Development at 204-474-9195 (Winnipeg area) or toll free 1-800-330-8066 or by email at donor.relations@umanitoba.ca