To say that Jim O’Hara is a “people person” is an understatement. As Vice President of Leadership Giving at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, he thrives on connecting people and causes, and is part of a senior team responsible for raising $250 million for health care. Earlier this year, he received the Outstanding Professional Fundraiser Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Many know him as a passionate fundraiser. However, what many people don’t know is that Jim has also been spending the last 14 years on a “hobby” that has since blossomed into a 1,200-piece collection of artwork that adorns the hallways of VGH, UBC Hospital and GF Strong Rehab Centre. This “healing arts” program, which was the inspiration of Roberta Beiser, a longtime supporter of VGH, is providing a stimulating, compassionate and healing environment for patients. A growing body of research shows that art has a positive impact on the health and well-being of patients, families and hospital staff.

We’re grateful to Jim – and the committee he works with – who, aside from raising needed funds, spends countless hours of his own time managing this extensive collection, and bringing smiles to the faces of patients and those who care for them.

Give the healing gift of art through our art program.[:zh]

To say that Jim O’Hara is a “people person” is an understatement. As Vice President of Leadership Giving at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, he thrives on connecting people and causes, and is part of a senior team responsible for raising $250 million for health care. Earlier this year, he received the Outstanding Professional Fundraiser Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Many know him as a passionate fundraiser. However, what many people don’t know is that Jim has also been spending the last 14 years on a “hobby” that has since blossomed into a 1,200-piece collection of artwork that adorns the hallways of VGH, UBC Hospital and GF Strong Rehab Centre. This “healing arts” program, which was the inspiration of Roberta Beiser, a longtime supporter of VGH, is providing a stimulating, compassionate and healing environment for patients. A growing body of research shows that art has a positive impact on the health and well-being of patients, families and hospital staff.

We’re grateful to Jim – and the committee he works with – who, aside from raising needed funds, spends countless hours of his own time managing this extensive collection, and bringing smiles to the faces of patients and those who care for them.

Give the healing gift of art through our art program.