Our Catholic schools are committed to helping students grow in their Christian faith through religious education and spiritual experiences... but they are limited in what they can do by restrictions on public education funding.

We help to fill this gap...

The Foundation History

The REAL Foundation (Religious Education Activities for Life) was established originally in 2001 as the ‘Elk Island Catholic Schools Education Foundation’ but was soon after re-branded as the REAL Foundation by Catholic community members who saw a great need to enhance the Faithful Foundational Supports and resources accessible to students and staff at local community Catholic Schools.

Since 2001, the Foundation’s torch has been carried and passed by key community members deeply invested in the future of Catholic Education and the accessibility of Catholic catechism and opportunities. Over many years, the Foundation has seen growth and commitment from the communities of Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Camrose and Vegreville. With our primary and collective objective to help students and staff grow in their Faith through enhanced spiritual experiences, we support the EICS Mission for religious education, spiritual growth and vocational discernment of their students.

The REAL Foundation works alongside the Elk Island Catholic Schools GrACE Committee in their steadfast advocacy for Catholic Education and the protection of the right for families to access publicly funded Catholic Education opportunities in Alberta.