John and Mata Rinke have left $2.75 million to the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta. -- SUBMITTED PHOTO
mcranker@medicinehatnews.com@mocranker
The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta received a big boost this month through a bequest of $2.75 million.
The donation came from the estate of John and Mata Rinke and will have a large impact on the region.
“This is huge for us,” said the foundation’s new executive director Sue Edwards. “This is one of the biggest bequests we’ve received since inception in 1992.
“This will have an impact that will last for generations here in our community.”
After John passed away in 2003, Mata continued their passion as philanthropists and became Heritage Club members with the foundation in 2007.
The John and Mata Rinke Fund is designated to the Smart and Caring Fund, which is distributed to the community’s greatest needs.
While Edwards did not know the Rinkes personally, she has only heard great things about the couple.
“I think they were down to earth and very kind, generous people,” she said. “They looked for the best in people and their impact is going to have a really impact on our region.”
