The Foundation's initial step worked to establish a student scholarship program, known as the Beaverbrook Vimy Prize.
It is funded by the Beaverbrook Canadian Foundation, whereby 15-20 students ranging from 15 to 17 years of age compete to win a scholarship to Europe.
The purpose of this inter-cultural grouping lies in creating a dynamically well-rounded experience for the students, as all countries were involved in the Battle of Vimy Ridge as part of the allied forces and as well have historic ties to Canada.
These activities allow the recipients to share their knowledge and experiences with a number of Canadians, and play a role in spreading awareness.
Each week a group of approximately 150 Canadian high school students, from all parts of the country, gather in Ottawa in a classroom setting to focus on a particular theme regarding Canada.
[3] This program proved a success and Encounters now runs it on the basis of two consecutive weeks surrounding the date of Vimy Ridge Day, which is April 9 of each year.
A national survey suggested that over 2/3rds of Canadians would be prepared to wear a pin recognizing Vimy Ridge Day.
[8][9] Efforts are being made to expand this permission nationally, where approximately 150,000 cadets could be expected to include the pin as part of their uniform.
[10] General Rick Hillier, former head of The Canadian Military and Canada's Chief of Defense Staff, became Honorary Chairman of The Vimy Foundation in 2008.
The French Embassy funded the entire occasion allowing for all contributions made to be dedicated to The Vimy Foundation programs.
The Ontario Provincial Legislature passed a new Bill proclaiming April 9 Vimy Ridge Day throughout the province.
It had stayed in various private collections since that time but was put up for auction at Sotheby's, along with 20 other items given by the former King to Wallis Simpson, the woman for whom he abdicated the throne only a few months after the Vimy unveiling, which he personally attended and ordained.
Andrew Powell, Founder and President Emeritus of The Vimy Foundation, partnered with fellow Canadian John McCall MacBain in co-purchasing this medal.
The Foundation was contacted by the Governor General's office to have two Beaverbrook Vimy Prize winners participate in a small reception in honour of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge while they toured Canada that summer.
Each group represented, including The Vimy Foundation, had an allocated time period to meet directly with Prince William and Kate and their hosts.
In October 2011 two Vimy Foundation Board members were awarded the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation by the Canadian federal government.
[20] The Vimy Foundation has achieved its milestones with primarily one off donations, no endowment fund, and a permanent staff of only two persons.