The enduring relationship between The Paul Albrechtsen Foundation and the Reh-Fit Centre is a powerful example of how philanthropy can shape the health and well-being of an entire community.
Through decades of generous support, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in strengthening Reh-Fit’s ability to deliver life-changing programs, expand its reach, and remain a leader in medical fitness and rehabilitation.
The Story Behind the Giving
At the heart of this partnership is the legacy of Paul Albrechtsen himself.
“The staff at the Reh-Fit saved my life.”
- The Late Paul Albrechtsen
These are the words of Paul Albrechtsen, a philanthropist and major benefactor of the Reh-Fit, who suffered a life-changing cardiac event while running on the track in 1995.
The experience ignited a profound and enduring commitment to give back—one that would subsequently benefit thousands of individuals and families throughout our city.
"My hope is that by sharing my story, others will be inspired to adopt healthy, active lifestyles at an earlier stage to prevent the life-threatening event I experienced,” he stated in 2006 following the facility’s $12 million expansion and renovation.
His significant donation helped the Reh-Fit Centre successfully complete the two-year project, thereby advancing it to a state-of-the-art facility that provides the highest standards of health and well-being services to the residents of Manitoba.
When the Centre shared its goal of developing a 10-year strategic master plan with Albrechtsen, he was more than happy to see a proposal to continue growing the health and well-being hub created by the 2006 expansion.
“Why Not Winnipeg”?
– The Late Paul Albrechtsen
Paul’s vision of a world-class centre of well-being where people at every stage of life feel they belong can be built here in our city.
Reh-Fit envisions a renovated and expanded centre that would enhance accessibility and introduce more spaces to support rehabilitation, fitness, and recreation, foster social connection, and strengthen healthcare partnerships.
The centre of well-being is an ambitious project, and The Paul Albrechtsen Foundation is passionate about helping it become a reality.
The Paul Albrechtsen Foundation has already committed $20 million to fund the design and development of the proposed new expansion, including the 300-stall parkade at the Reh-Fit Centre, which is currently under construction.
At the Sons and Daughters of Italy Gala held this past March, the Reh-Fit Centre was chosen as the Charity of Choice and received a $5.5 million cheque through the support of attendees and donors.
In a show of leadership and generosity, The Paul Albrechtsen president, Scott Albrechtsen, announced a landmark $5,000,000 donation as well as a remarkable $10,000,000 matching gift opportunity through May 31, 2026, to encourage further community contributions towards the proposed expansion at the Reh-Fit Centre.
Paul Albrechtsen’s vision and passion will help build something extraordinary, honouring the courage and vision that brought us to the present and helping to carry it forward into a future where well-being is the heart of our community.
At Reh-Fit, this inspiring legacy is reflected in every member who benefits from improved access to exercise, education, and support.