I’m a 3rd generation Vancouverite. My grandfather, my father and I were all born at VGH, so I have a strong attachment to this city I call home. And therefore it’s a particularly meaningful opportunity for me to have taken the helm this year as President & CEO of BC’s leading adult health care foundation. With oversight from our Board, and Chair David Rowntree, I work with the Foundation team to ensure that we make the best use of donor dollars.

I’m fortunate to have a long-standing career in the charitable and philanthropic sector, with many charities that do valuable and important work across BC. VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation is unique in raising funds for acute care, research, and community-based programs that support people needing highly specialized care for complex diseases and illnesses. Because of you, our donors, we have an unparalleled impact on health care services that benefit thousands of people across BC. This report shares stories and examples of the impact you have made in the past year.

Here in BC, philanthropy raises upwards of $250 million annually to support health care. While government funds essential services, many key undertakings – new programs and facilities, leading-edge research, advancements in treatments – can only be achieved with donors as key partners. Philanthropy ensures excellence in health care, attracts and keeps highly skilled professionals here in BC, and contributes to the province’s economic long-term prosperity.

In the 33 years that we’ve been the philanthropic partner to Vancouver General Hospital, UBC Hospital, GF Strong Rehab Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and, more recently, Vancouver Community Health Services, we’ve raised over $500,000,000. Achieving this milestone gives all of us, as a community, an opportunity to celebrate. Thanks to donors like you, who believe in what our hospitals and health care teams do, we are making a significant and lasting impact that strengthens health care.

On behalf of all of us at the Foundation, you have my heartfelt thanks for the role you’ve played in writing the story of this milestone. I look forward to working with many of you in creating the next chapter in our story, as we continue to use the power of philanthropy to ensure health care excellence for all British Columbians.

Barbara Grantham
President & CEO