WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA — Richardson Pioneer said on April 10 that it commemorate its 100th anniversary with creating of the Richardson Pioneer Century Gifts Program to provide funding to one major community project in the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta in 2013. The selected projects will each receive a C$100,000 contribution from the newly-created program.

“We are very proud of our long history of investing in and supporting the communities in which our customers and employees live and work,” said Hartley T. Richardson, chairman of Richardson International and president & chief executive officer (CEO) of James Richardson & Sons, Limited. "Establishing this special gifts program to mark Richardson Pioneer’s 100th anniversary will enable us to make a significant contribution to three initiatives that will create a lasting impact for so many.”

Communities in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba are invited to submit a proposal for a specific infrastructure project or initiative that promotes and supports recreational pursuits and will benefit the community at large. Preference will be given to projects with funding support from local residents and businesses. Proposals for the Richardson Pioneer Century Gifts Program, along with a completed application, must be received by June 30. Applications are available online at www.richardson.ca/community. Recipients will be announced in the fall.

“The Richardson Pioneer Century Gifts Program provides a special opportunity to help create a legacy in communities across the Prairies that will benefit future generations,” said Curt Vossen, President and CEO of Richardson International. “A key part of our enduring success is the strength of the communities in which we do business and we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and being a positive presence in those communities.”

The Richardson Pioneer Century Gifts Program is a special fund created to support three projects to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Richardson Pioneer. The company will continue to support other community initiatives and organizations throughout the year through the Richardson Foundation.

Richardson Pioneer is a division of Richardson International Limited.