Passion and Practice Connect Ann Down to
CIHM Mission
Ann Down has spent most of her philanthropic career focused on making a difference in the health and welfare of children. And, she's also a long-term meditator who says this practice has profoundly and positively affected her life. She has generously blended both of these passions with several generous gifts to the Center.

"This is such an exciting field of research – beginning to understand how we can train our minds and learn healthy emotional habits," says Ann. "Why wouldn't we want to support CIHM and learn from their discoveries?"

Ann is particularly hopeful about CIHM's research focused on children and mindfulness practices in the classroom. "Our youth deserve the simple basics of life - nutrition, education and access to health care," she says. ""More so, we need to give our children the tools to understand and articulate their emotions."

Several years ago, Ann, set out to learn more about the practice that has changed her life. She started attending conferences held by the Mind & Life Institute, where she became good friends with CIHM Founder Richard Davidson. "Ann is a dear friend and her support over the years has meant so much to me," says Davidson. "She truly understands how the Center's work can change lives."

She says supporting his vision for a research center was a natural step. "We are all so swept up in the distractions and busyness of everyday life. Imagine how this work could affect our health and happiness. This would be a wonderful thing!"