The I.M.O. Foundation

What do you want to be remembered for?  What will your legacy be?

My brother was just 24 years old when he lost his courageous battle with HIV/AIDS.  After my brother’s wake ceremony in the fall of 2003, I was determined to ensure the last great story wasn’t left at the podium.  I created a weekend to remember the one thing we all have in common; friends and family members no longer with us.  In 2004, the first I.M.O. (In Memory Of) Festival was born.  Held on the 2^nd weekend of June each year in Leavenworth, WA, the festival has continued to grow in numbers and contributions.  Legendary stories are shared rather than shelved, inspiring people to reflect more, give more, and achieve more.  People arrive at the Festival remembering what they’ve lost, however, they leave realizing what we’ve all gained.

The momentum of the festival continues to grow.  I’ve witnessed the positive impact the festival has on peoples’ lives and wanted to touch more individuals and families.

In 2007, the IMO Foundation was born.  The Foundation’s mission is to establish a relief fund to assist families with the financial burden of a sudden tragedy.  In addition, the IMO Foundation began a scholarship/memorial program in the summer of 2008, designed to inspire, motivate, and educate kids in their final years of high school.  The Foundation will enlighten youth through legendary stories of family history, values, and tradition.  The Foundation intends to pay tribute to deceased family members and friends by naming the scholarships after them.  The Foundation believes everyone leaves this world a legend and every day is a gift, this is why we call it ‘the present.’     

The Foundation’s Board of Directors consists of 9 members.  The Foundation hosts two fundraising events annually; The Winter Benefit and Summer IMO Festival.

For our Winter Benefit in January, the goal is to introduce new friends and family to the IMO Foundation, its’ established community, the cause, and our annual festival in Leavenworth.  We appreciate your support in strengthening our foundation designed to help families financially devastated by tragic events, set up scholarships, memorials, and group support.

For additional information, please contact a Board Member.

All the Best,

Paul LaBlanc

Founder, President

The I.M.O. Foundation

paul@imofestival.com