At The Charette Foundation, our commitment to making a meaningful impact extends to various facets of our community. One of our distinguished initiatives is the Gilfred R. Charette Memorial Scholarships – an esteemed program designed to support and uplift those whose lives have been touched by childhood cancer, as well as the siblings of young cancer warriors.

 

This scholarship program, tailored for upper-level and graduate studies, has marked a significant milestone in its journey. Over five instances, we have proudly awarded scholarships to deserving individuals pursuing their educational aspirations at Texas universities. Our mission is to honor the memory of Gilfred R. Charette, a remarkable individual whose life story resonates deeply with our cause.

 

Gilfred's origins were rooted in Ft. Kent, Maine, where he was born and raised along the Canadian and US border. His formative years were marked by the sole use of the French language, a testament to his unique upbringing. At the age of 16, Gilfred embarked on a self-driven journey to learn English, breaking linguistic barriers and expanding his horizons.

 

A pivotal moment in Gilfred's life came when his daughter, Robbie Gail, was a mere three years old. She fondly recalls her father's determination to teach himself to read and write English, a poignant display of his unwavering dedication to growth and self-improvement. Gilfred's legacy continued to inspire even after his passing, igniting a profound spark within Robbie Gail and Helen Charette, his wife.

 

This inspiration led to the creation of the Gilfred R. Charette Memorial Scholarships. Fuelled by a shared vision to address unmet needs within the community, Robbie Gail and Helen Charette established this scholarship program. By supporting individuals who have faced the challenges of childhood cancer, and those who have stood by their young siblings during their battle, the scholarships aim to illuminate a path toward higher education and a brighter future.

 

With the Gilfred R. Charette Memorial Scholarships, we honor Gilfred's legacy of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge. We stand united in our mission to transform adversity into opportunity and to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

​