VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation was established in 1980 to raise funds for Vancouver General Hospital. Almost 40 years later, our growth, expertise and connections make us the philanthropic engine for health innovation and transformation in British Columbia. Today, we support the most specialized adult care, groundbreaking research and system transformation across Vancouver Coastal Health — BC’s largest health authority serving 1.5 million people. No one knows the impact of the Foundation’s 40-year trajectory better than Peter Bentley — our founding Board Chair, and now our Chair Emeritus.

Peter, his wife Sheila and the Bentley family are lifelong visionary supporters and advocates for health care in BC. The impact of their generosity is felt across our hospitals and health centres, including in healing spaces for mental health patients, and through provision of support to patients living with neuromuscular diseases.

Thanks to the Bentley family and you — our supporters — we are approaching $1 billion raised for health care since our inception in 1980. We applaud Peter for his pioneering leadership of our Foundation, which has driven transformations in health care and profoundly impacted the wellbeing of our province. Peter, you truly exemplify what it means to be a philanthropist, and we are proud to call you our lifelong friend.

Peter Bentley and family were honoured with the naming of the Peter Bentley and Family Square located at VGH.