Chris Moe, a participant at the VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health, with nurse Tiina Mettala at the 18th annual Have a Healthy Heart fundraiser.

In February, close to 200 people attended the annual “Have a Healthy Heart” fundraiser hosted by the VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health. The event was held to thank clients who fundraise for the clinic and to share information about cardiovascular health through presentations by leading physicians at VGH.

Each year, the Centre touches the lives of nearly 600 people with heart conditions. The programs are designed to keep clients well-informed on ways to prevent and manage cardiovascular disease through education and exercise. Having experienced the life changing benefits of the program, clients are inspired to raise funds to keep the program running
for others.

“Our annual fundraisers have made it possible for us to continue to offer our program and services to BC residents. Our main priority is to raise funds to subsidize program fees, allowing access for all to attend the program,” says Taira Birnie, Case Manager at the Centre. “It’s gratifying to know that most of our fundraising ― about 80% of donations ― is championed by current and former clients.”

Over the past 18 years, donors have raised more than $1.2 million for the program. Through this generous support, the Centre has been able to fund fitness equipment, Mindful Living workshops to manage stress, offer nutritional education sessions, and assist the start-up of the community based program, Happy Hearts Alliance. This year’s fundraising will subsidize program fees for up to 150 people and help provide a new VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health informational website.

Please support the VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health.

Interested in hosting your own fundraising event? We can help you plan an event.