For the Shemko family and their EZ Giving Fund, every charitable gift has a singular goal: to help make someone else’s life just a little bit safer, healthier and easier.
Natalie, Drew, and their two daughters, Emma and Zoe, named the Fund for the first initials of the Shemko girls and because it’s a play on the word ‘easy’.
The Shemkos created their Fund in 2025. Natalie and Drew, while providing their input, have chosen to leave the granting decisions up to their daughters. Every year, Emma and Zoe each plan to pick a charity to donate to. “Our decisions will depend on our own experiences, as well as those of our loved ones and neighbours,” said Emma.
Natalie’s main motivations for starting the Fund were leaving behind a legacy and leading by example.
“The best way to teach my children about charitable giving is to involve them in it,” said Natalie.
For Drew, making an impact locally is what matters, and The Foundation helps to facilitate that.
“I like that OCF is a local charity helping out people in my own community, close to my home,” said Drew.
The family knows firsthand what it’s like to lose a loved one to cancer or watch an ageing parent disappear to Alzheimer’s. They’ve experienced the struggle with depression or suicidal thoughts. They’ve seen LGBTQ+ teens be bullied. They know the harm caused by sexual abuse and eating disorders.
Zoe chose to make her very first grant to PFlag Halton.
“At a time when LGBTQ+ communities face targeted discrimination and attacks, contributing is one small way to protect, advocate, and ensure these communities have the resources they need to thrive and to be celebrated,” said Zoe.
Emma doesn’t want people to suffer in silence.
“I want my contributions to help create safe spaces for others, no matter what they’re going through,” said Emma. “That’s why I chose to make my first grant to the Halton Region Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.”
The Shemkos believe that while there are no easy solutions to monumental problems, there is an EZ way for them to support others experiencing similar journeys through their Fund.
“One day we will be gone, but The Foundation will exist in perpetuity. That is a powerful legacy my family can be proud of,” 
said Natalie, when asked about her hopes for the future of the Fund.
The Shemkos want their Fund to impact and support as many people in need as possible. They are eternally grateful for all donations.
Read more stories about Oakville’s Dreamers and Builders:
“I Can See Your Smile”: Remembering Graeme Moffat.
To learn more or to become a Fundholder contact us by emailing giving@theocf.org.
