The Debi Lefaivre ALS Youth Champions Fund

The ALS Society of Alberta is honoured to introduce the Debi Lefaivre ALS Youth Champions Fund—a heartfelt program that carries forward the remarkable legacy of Debi Lefaivre. Formerly known as the Support for Champions Program, the Debi Lefaivre ALS Youth Champions Fund provides funding to children in Alberta who have had a parent or guardian affected by ALS - specifically for programs and activities that they may not otherwise be able to afford due to the financial strain of an ALS diagnosis.

Applications are currently closed. The next round of applications will open in Spring, 2026.

Who is Eligible

Children under 18 who have, or had, a parent or guardian living with ALS are eligible for this fund. It provides financial support for extracurricular activities such as sports, music, tutoring, and trips, helping kids continue doing what they love despite the challenges of ALS.

Application Process

We invite you to apply online using the online form below. There is no set limit on the amount of funding that can be requested, and every application is considered based on individual needs. With certain requests, the ALS Society of Alberta may only be able to provide partial funding.

Debi was a beacon of kindness and compassion and had an unwavering love for family and children. Her generous gift will fund this program for the next five years, ensuring youth in Alberta impacted by ALS continue to receive this vital support.

Debi touched so many lives during her time with the ALS Society of Alberta, and through this fund, we hope to continue her work in supporting families who face the unique challenges of ALS. For any questions, please contact Leslie Ring Adams at leslie@alsab.ca or by phone at 403-228-3857.

About Debi

Debra Lefaivre, affectionately known as Debi, was a beacon of love and strength whose compassion and dedication left a lasting impact on all who knew her. After losing her parents at a young age, Debi embraced the role of family matriarch, offering unwavering support and affection to her 10 siblings and their families. Her empathy and commitment to others extended throughout her remarkable 45-year career at Vecova, where she tirelessly championed the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities, embodying values of inclusivity and service.

Debi’s dedication to making a difference continued through her work with numerous organizations, including the ALS Society of Alberta, where she formed deep connections and generously helped others in Alberta navigate their ALS journeys.