Capital Giving

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AUTUMN 2021

WHAT WILL YOUR LEGACY BE? You can guide the future of your community and causes that you care about by making a legacy gift to the charity of your choice. Charitable donations help to build communities and support a wide range of causes.

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A community starts with a single person

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he Victoria Foundation started with humble beginnings: one person, with the simple idea of starting an organization with a solid source of funds that could provide support to charities throughout our region.

The person was Burges Gadsden, and the year was 1936, when he founded the Victoria Foundation out of the Sunshine Inn, a soup kitchen he ran on Pandora Avenue. The Victoria Foundation received its first gift of $20 in 1937 from Mrs. Fannie Gadsden, the mother Burges Gadsden. Today, the Victoria Foundation holds more than 550 endowment and long-term funds — each one representing individuals and families who believe in generating a positive impact in our community. It’s remarkable to think of the legacy the Gadsden’s have left behind in our community from such simple kindness and generosity.

The desire to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy of commitment to community inspires many people to give to the charities and causes that mean the most to them.

One of the easiest and most popular ways to leave a legacy gift is through a Will. Wills

aren’t just a legal way to distribute your personal assets, they can be a powerful tool for change in the world. Whether you want to support an organization in your neighbourhood or a registered charity anywhere in Canada, a Will can direct your gift for the greatest and most lasting impact.

Will Power is a national public education effort designed to inspire more Canadians to make a significant impact on the causes they care about, with a gift in their Will to charity. Spearheaded by the CAGP Foundation and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners, and in collaboration with many of Canada’s leading charities and advisors, its goal is to raise the level of charitable giving through wills to 8.5 per cent of all Canadians by 2030.

Reaching that goal will see every day Canadians contribute as much as $40 billion dollars to the causes they care about.

The Victoria Foundation is a proud supporter of Will Power and is here to help you have a lasting impact. Your gift is as individual as you are. It reflects your values and hopes for the community. We offer a

range of giving options to help you give with confidence. With one gift in your Will, you can support your chosen charities through the annual grants from your fund. Or you can support urgent needs and new opportunities for local charities through our discretionary granting program. Whether you want to support an organization in your neighbourhood or a registered charity anywhere in Canada, we can help you.

Over the years, residents of Greater Victoria, like Burges Gadsden, have always shared a strong sense of community. One where we work together and support each other as we create a vibrant, caring community for all. At the Victoria Foundation, that means we identify, create, support and lead initiatives, in partnership with community and donors like you, that strengthen the charitable sector and generate long-term transformative change.

Individuals work closely with the Victoria Foundation to determine the impact they want to have in community. Whether your passion is to support the arts, health related programs, the environment, social justice,

or one of many other cause areas, when you leave a gift in your Will to the Victoria Foundation, our team will ensure that your gift supports the causes that matter most to you.

And Will Power is also here to let Canadians know that supporting a charity or causes through your Will doesn’t take anything away from the desire to support family through a Will, or vice versa. By working with your professional advisor, you can ensure your Will does both, leaving a legacy for both your family and your community.

So no matter what cause you’re passionate about, Will Power, the Victoria Foundation, and your professional advisors are here to ensure you leave behind the legacy you want.

You can learn more about how to leave a legacy through your Will at victoriafoundation.bc.ca/legacy-giving-and-wills or by visiting willpower.ca/charities/the-victoriafoundation. For more information you can also contact the Victoria Foundation via email at donorservices@victoriafoundation. bc.ca or by calling 250-381-5532.

Use the power of your Will to do more! willpower.ca/charities/the-victoria-foundation

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How a unique program is helping feed thousands of vulnerable residents in Greater Victoria Donations to the Victoria Cool Aid Society help place grocery gift cards in the hands of those who need them most—but more support is needed

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rocery shopping is, for most of us, a routine errand we take for granted.

Some even resent it as an inconvenience and a chore.

But for many who are homeless or living in emergency shelters and supportive housing, buying one’s own food is an unimaginable luxury – an expression of independence and economic stability that may not have been experienced in years or ever before.

This is why the Victoria Cool Aid Society’s grocery gift card program has been life-changing for so many people in our community.

Since the program’s launch in winter 2019, it has placed gift cards from grocery

retailers and other merchants in the hands of thousands of vulnerable people who access the many invaluable services Cool Aid provides including housing and emergency shelter, health and dental care, meal programs, and employment and wellness programs.

Since its founding in 1968 as a hotline and a hostel for transient youth, Cool Aid has grown to become an organization that houses and supports more at-risk and formerly homeless individuals than any other organization in Greater Victoria. Its network of services now encompasses 16 housing sites, three shelters, a health clinic, a dental clinic, and a community centre.

Lori Angelini, Cool Aid’s Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement, joined the organization in 2018. At that time, some Cool Aid clients had become beneficiaries of a non-profit program called Homeless Partners.

“Their volunteers came to our Rock Bay Landing shelter and our Sandy Merriman House women’s shelter,” explains Angelini. “They interviewed some of the clients and asked them what they wanted for Christmas. These would be posted to their website as profiles and wish lists.”

Yet despite the program’s success, it was unexpectedly discontinued in winter 2019.

Angelini immediately began contemplating how something similar might takes its place.

“I was tinkering with a new database, and it happened to have an online shopping cart. I thought, ‘What if we could adapt it in a way that donors could choose gift cards?’

It’s not as customized as the Homeless Partners program, but clients who received them could then buy whatever they wanted for Christmas. ”When the public learned about the program, the response was overwhelming.

Cool Aid received enough donations to acquire more gift cards than they needed.

“We were able to give the rest to other shelter programs in the city,” says Angelini.

“It was, on all fronts, a huge success.”

And then, just a couple of months later, the COVD-19 pandemic struck, and the need for gift cards acquired a whole new dimension.

“That was when we realized we needed to do more for our clients,” says Angelini, “because as a result of COVID, we could no longer receive donations of food from restaurants and individuals. Our clients relied on that. So we relaunched the shopping card, but this time it was just for groceries. And again, people responded enthusiastically.”

In 2021 alone, Cool Aid had received donations before the end of August equivalent to more than 3,500 gift cards, which are distributed among roughly 220 regular recipients. But, Angelini points out, donations aren’t consistent. In particular, summer sees a dramatic slowdown that results

in many recipients having to go without.

“Our clients look forward to their weekly grocery card – it’s like an income they didn’t have before. And we also give them out through our community health centre, where many clients have extremely low incomes and sometimes a lot of health issues.”

Angelini and her Cool Aid colleagues encourage everyone who has the means to make a gift card donation, which can be done via Cool Aid’s website in just a couple of minutes.

“It’s become such a vital program for our clients because it’s not just feeding them,” says Angelini. “They’re learning how to cook, building those life skills that people so desperately need. Rather than them receiving a premade meal, they can go out into the community and choose what they want.

That’s something quite special and empowering that most of us never think about.”

To make a donation to Cool Aid’s grocery gift card program, visit coolaid.org/giftcards. To learn more about Cool Aid and the many ways it helps homeless and at-risk individuals, visit coolaid.org.

The Victoria Cool Aid Society provides affordable and supportive housing, emergency shelter, primary health and dental care, nutritious meals, and wellness programs to more than 12,000 people annually at 20 locations in Greater Victoria. With the support of funders and donors, Cool Aid houses and helps more people who have been homeless in Greater Victoria than any other organization.

Cool Aid is Building for the Long Term You can help with a gift in your will Cool Aid provides housing, temporary shelter, health and dental care, meals, and support services for more than 12,000 people – including seniors – experiencing homelessness and poverty in Greater Victoria.

WE PROVIDE health and dental care – including mobile health outreach – for thousands of our neighbours at supportive housing locations, temporary shelters, and on the streets.

WE PROVIDE housing and shelter for more than 700 people and we are building 226 new affordable and supportive units for seniors, families and people experiencing homelessness.

WE PROVIDE recreation and wellness opportunities, employment services, meals, and other supports to more than 7,000 people each year.

coolaid.org

• 250.414.4799 •

langelini@coolaid.org

P R OV I D I N G H O P E . C H A N G I N G L I V E S .

Vic Women’s Transition House Soc. 3x5

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Christmas at the Emergency Shelter

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FOR OVER 45-YEARS,

Victoria Women’s Transition House has offered Emergency Shelter as well compassionate, trauma-informed counselling and support programs for women, with specialized programs for older women and for children who witness abuse abuse.

C WE ARE committed to supporting women of all

ages, with and without children, impacted by intimate partner violence and abuse.

24-HOUR

Crisis and Information Line 250-385-6611

Community Office 250-592-2927

transitionhouse.net

hristmas can be a stressful and challenging time for women living in a violent and abusive relationship.

Some women, may wait until after the holidays to leave their abuser. They believe that their children will have bad memories linked to Christmas from departing the family home.

In reality, most women who come to the Victoria Women’s Transition House Emergency Shelter experience an overwhelming sense of relief, safety and support.

For the first time in a long time, they feel valued and cared for-and the Holiday period is no different.

Christmas is an exciting time at both our Shelter locations. There are decorated Christmas trees; cookies baking in the Shelter kitchen; holiday books and movies; and crafts, music and other activities.

With help from donors, each child and adult receives a beautifully wrapped gift as well as treats and a delicious Christmas dinner.

The Shelter is a warm, supportive environment that hosts hundreds of women and children each year.

When I was a child, my mother was in an abusive relationship.

My little sister and I stayed here (at VWTH) one Christmas when I was around 10 years old. I cannot express how much help and support we received in our time of need and am forever grateful that these programs exist to help woman and children…

I will never forget the generosity and kindness of the people who helped us.

- Joseph, past client and current donor For more information or to make a donation, consult transitionhouse.net or call, 250-592-2927

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CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021 | 7

Help animals like Malala find loving homes this holiday

BC SPCA

Forever Guardians support a more humane, safe and caring future for animals in BC

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eet Malala. This sweet cat arrived at the BC SPCA after her owners had to move without being able to acquire pet friendly housing. Sadly, Malala has been through so much more than just that.

In 2015 she was discovered at the dump with her legs bound, her tail cut off, and was emaciated and dehydrated. Thankfully, a kind person like you rescued her and brought her into the care of the BC SPCA where she received much needed emergency medical care.

Unfortunately, earlier this year we were heartbroken when she arrived back in our care after her guardian was unable to find pet friendly housing.

“After enduring so much, we knew Malala should have a life of comfort and peace,” shares Caitlin Fysh, Officer, Stewardship. “And we are so grateful for the help of caring animal lovers including

Forever Guardians ensure that the BC SPCA is there for all animals, and who are helping us work with different levels of government to improve access to pet friendly housing.”

Malala is ready for the holidays and is excited to join her loving new fur-ever family! It’s such a joy to see animals like her, who have endured so much, find a comfortable home. Today you can help animals like Malala find a caring home for the holidays. Visit spca. bc.ca/holiday to give a loving holiday gift now.

And if you’re looking at supporting a more humane, safe and caring future for animals in BC, for many years to come, join us as a Forever Guardian by leaving a gift in your Will.

To learn more, visit foreverguardian.ca or contact Caitlin Fysh at cfysh@spca.bc.ca or by phone at 1.855.622.7722, ext. 6059

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You can support future generations of animals in need by leaving a loving gift in your Will Visit foreverguardian.ca to learn more or contact Caitlin Fysh at cfysh@spca.bc.ca or by phone at 1.855.622.7722, ext. 6059.

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Youth Empowering Youth: Why mental health matters to me

In February 2022, student leaders Lucy and Annabel will assist in the planning of the 7th Mental Health Anti-Stigma Summit in Victoria.

Lucy My name is Lucy, I am 16 years old, and I am passionate about making a contribution to mental health and deeply committed to youth advocacy.

Over the past few years, I have grown increasingly aware of the importance of good mental health support in our healthcare system. As someone who

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Everyone deserves to have good mental health and I want to do everything I can to make sure that happens.

has dealt with my own mental health issues, and with several friends and peers navigating mental health challenges, I understand the stigma and necessity for sustainable, accessible, and inclusive resources. I am enthusiastic about raising awareness around these issues by breaking down stigma on both a personal and societal scale.

Specifically, as a community, I would like to see a decrease in social stigma as well as empathy-driven, accessible, and sustainable support systems. This starts with education and empathy at a grassroots level. Services and support should also be provided in a way that not only responds to urgent needs, but helps address the root causes in the longer term.

The importance of mental health cannot be emphasized enough. Mental health is a complex and diverse issue that impacts the lives of many indi-

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viduals. Mental health is a universal concern and needs to be prioritized and addressed immediately.

Anabel My motivation to help make a difference comes from wanting no other person to struggle with their mental health like I do. Spreading accurate and useful information is extremely important to me so everyone gets fair and adequate treatment.

I would like to see more changes in the schools. Especially in the past two years, many students have been struggling to balance their mental health and school work. While schools are trying to bring more awareness and information to students, actually asking students what they want and need is more beneficial.

Everyone deserves to have good mental health and I want to do everything I can to make sure that happens. No matter who you are or where you come from, every single person needs to have a healthy mental state and know how to properly take care of it To learn more about how you can help support this important initiative contact jocelyn.demontmorency@cmha.bc.ca or 250-514-2717.

Help support resilience in youth Youth are suffering like never before. Their well-being has never been tested to such a degree. Social isolation just when youth are exploring their own identity, on top of racial injustice, has really taken a toll.

At the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) we believe it is a human right to experience our best possible mental health. That happens when we can connect with others and have a sense of belonging.

That’s why each year CMHA in Victoria partners with the Mental Health Commission of Canada to empower youth through Headstrong. This powerful anti-stigma initiative brings secondary school students together to hear stories from inspiring youth with lived experience, take part in interactive activities and then connect to design action plans to promote resilience and support for mental health in their schools and communities.

Your donations help empower Victoria youth to reach out, speak up and promote mental health

Please give today at victoria.cmha.bc.ca/donate

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Courtenay amputee expresses gratitude as War Amps key tag service marks 75th anniversary

Jeanne Lewis at a War Amps CHAMP Seminar in 2010 (left) and today (right).

T Leave a lasting gift …

with a charitable estate donation in your will.

Your support provides amputees, including children, with the essential artificial limbs they need to thrive.

With your help, we are also a reliable source for expertise, advocacy and peer connections, and our historic work for veterans continues to the present day.

estatedonation@waramps.ca • waramps.ca • 1 800 465-2677

his year, The War Amps Key Tag Service is celebrating 75 years of returning lost keys to their owners. Donations to the Key Tag Service provide vital support to amputees across the country including Lewis Jeon, 21, of Courtenay.

Lewis was born a right hand amputee and grew up with The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, which provides financial assistance for artificial limbs and adaptive devices, as well as peer support.

“The War Amps has been a great support to my family and I since I was a young boy,” says Lewis. “It has provided me with emotional support, resources and the confidence to do whatever I set my mind to, including playing the violin, biking, kayaking and weight lifting.”

Each key tag has a confidentially coded number. If you lose your keys, the finder can call the toll-free number on the back of the tag or place them in any mailbox in Canada, and The War Amps will return them to you by courier, free of charge.

The War Amps receives no government grants and its programs are possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service.

“We’d like to thank the public for helping to make this service a success,” says spokesperson Rob Larman, himself a Graduate of the CHAMP Program. “Your support funds essential programs for all amputees across Canada, including children and veterans.”

For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.

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CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021 | 11

You can keep Vancouver Island families close when it matters most.

CHAMPIONS WANTED RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE 3x5

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Leave a legacy for Vancouver Island families Leaving a gift in your will to Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon will provide accommodation and support for Vancouver Island families when their lives are uprooted for their child’s major medical treatment.

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o family ever plans to stay at Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon, but for 2,000 families each year, it becomes a home away from home.

When children from Victoria and neighbouring communities are diagnosed with a serious illness such as cancer or heart disease, they are often flown to Vancouver that same day. Families face urgent challenges: where to stay, how to care for their other children, and even where to find a change of clothes or their next meal.

That’s where Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon (RMH BC) comes in, providing accommodation and support for families who must relocate to Vancouver for treatment. Last year, 19% of the families we served came from Vancouver Island.

The Bonner family was one of many Victoria families who found a home at RMH BC in 2021, when their son Elliott was born prematurely at 25 weeks. While he grew stronger under the care of his medical team, RMH BC gave his mom and dad a place to stay and a community of support with people who knew exactly what they were going through.

“It made me feel more resilient,” says mom Liz. “Being in Vancouver alone, it was nice having someone to say hello in the morning, who knew your name.

These small things can make the darkest days a little brighter.”

• An essential service made possible by your support, RMH BC is open for families 365 days a year.

• Families can stay for weeks, months, or years.

• Staying at RMH BC saves families $3,000 - $6,000 per month, making them stronger long after they return home.

• Programs like family meals reduce day-to-day stress so they can care for their sick child.

• More than a place to stay, the House makes possible count less superhero movie nights, home-cooked meals and bedtime stories.

You can support Island families at RMH BC by making a donation, taking part in a fundraiser or leaving a legacy in your will.

Learn more at www.rmhbc.ca

Contact us: 604-736-2957 plannedgiving@rmhbc.ca rmhbc.ca

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Your Support will help a family in Victoria this Christmas When I walk into the door everyone is so welcoming.

The Salvation Army feels like a family.

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ulie is a single mother who raises seven kids, including three adopted boys from a childhood friend and a grandson. And because of your support, she is making it work.

Julie smiles as she looks at a crowded family portrait. From the way she describes each of her children, it’s obvious that she cares very much and treats each of them as one of her own.

Raising seven children is as difficult as you could expect, especially for a single mother. Together they also needed to work through the trauma the foster children experienced when they were younger all while Julie herself struggled to get through a difficult divorce and custody battle that followed.

“It’s six boys, one girl and as much trouble as they are all are, I love them and they’re a blessing,” However, we know that it takes more than love to raise a family of that size, especially for a single mother. Julie struggles to make ends meet and when she does have extra income, it is a decision between providing her children with things like backpacks for school or decent running shoes versus putting more food on the table to feed her seven children.

“Life is really tough as it is,” says Julie imagining life without this support, “I would be stressed out because I wouldn’t be able to make ends meet”.

Thankfully, because of your continued and generous support, The Salvation Army can offer programs and services in Victoria

that help make those decisions a little easier for those in need. For Julie, her first interaction with The Salvation Army actually came when the father of her adopted children told her about the summer camp in Gibsons. A camp experience for five children at that time seemed as though it would be too expensive to even consider, however thanks to generous supporters of the Army it was possible to have all of her children be part of the experience. It was then, while filling out the paperwork, that she learned about the food program and other services. From there, the relationship grew into something special…

Today life for Julie is looking much better.

“The transformation I have seen in Julie has been pretty significant, and not just for her but for her whole family,” shared Sipili Molia,

Community Relations Manager. For Julie this is all about knowing that she now has the necessary community support that makes the challenge of raising that many children easier to handle.

“It’s not just the food, or the camps, but knowing that there are people out there who will stand beside you, listen to you, even pray with you... it’s overwhelming at times to think how lucky we are here in Victoria to have a place like this,” says Julie.

This holiday season when you make a donation at one of The Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettles throughout the Capital Regional District, or online at SalvationArmy.ca/GiveHopeVictoria, you are helping families like Julie’s.

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VICTORIA SYMPHONY

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Share the joy of music

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photo by Kevin Light

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YOUR SUPPORT IS VITAL

to the Victoria Symphony.

Please consider a gift to the Symphony in your will.

With gratitude,

For information, contact Lorraine Tanner at 250.412.1980 or victoriasymphony.ca/plannedgiving

or over 80 years, Victoria Symphony audiences have discovered the joy of shared musical experiences. Perhaps you too have felt something uniquely beautiful while listening to our talented orchestra musicians, performing with passion and pride, some of the most beautiful music ever written! To have the opportunity to hear live symphonic music right here on Vancouver Island makes it an extraordinary place to live and play. Whether you are new to Victoria or a long-time supporter of the Symphony, we invite you to be a lasting part of the positive and healing power of music. Please consider leaving a gift to the Symphony in your Will. It will benefit future generations of musicians and all people in our community for years to come.

A gift in your Will is a great way to ensure that the causes you care the most about receive benefit.

You will help the Symphony: 1. Sustain an orchestra of world class musicians 2. Enable the Symphony to bring you renowned guest conductors, gifted solo artists, premiere new music, as well as present the great classics 3. Build the future of the Greater Victoria’s youth through the growth of our music education programs 4. Ensure that concerts attendance remains affordable for all 5. Present over 60 annual concerts in many venues.

The Victoria Symphony has many community programs that engage children, youth and aspiring composers, giving them the opportunity to hear symphonic music, perhaps for the first time.

Here are some examples: Education Concerts which are performed every year in Victoria, Duncan, and Sooke to a total of 10,000 students. vsYOUTH who are high school music students that volunteer to help children play instruments in our Instrument Petting Zoos held at our Concerts for Kids and Splash.

VS IN SCHOOLS: Musicians where VS musicians visit students in their schools and give performances, lectures about the repertoire they play, and insights into their lives as orchestra musicians.

VS IN SCHOOLS: Symphony Storytime is an interactive musical performance for young children that teaches the students about the connections between words, feelings, and music.

With your support, we will make sure the music will PLAY ON for future generations to enjoy. Thank you. www.victoriasymphony.ca

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CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021 | 15

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY/RESTORE

Habitat for Humanity

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ecure your legacy by bequeathing a gift that has the power to transform the lives of local families. In a region where access to affordable housing is in crisis, Habitat for Humanity Victoria’s unique equity solution is bringing our community together to help families build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership.

Since building its first home in 1999, with the support of donors like you, this local charity has helped 34 Greater Victoria families realize their dream of affordable homeownership and is poised to help 4 more families in the coming months.

Families qualify for the program based on several key criteria: they are living in need of affordable housing; their household income is under the Housing Income Limits set by BC Housing, but still sufficient to meet the responsibilities of homeownership; and they are willing to partner with Habitat by contributing 500 hours of volunteer service with the charity.

Habitat for Humanity Victoria plays a multi-faceted role in creating these housing opportunities. It acquires the land, oversees construction by arranging the skilled trades and volunteers, and secures donations of materials from suppliers to build modest family homes.

It also acts as a major lender.

Habitat homes are sold to qualified families through mortgage terms that make the purchase affordable. No down payment is required if the family does not have

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the resources to make one, and their total mortgage payments will not exceed 30 per cent of their gross income. Habitat helps families qualify for a mortgage with a traditional lender (at market interest rates) for up to 30% of the purchase amount, and then Habitat offers an interest-free mortgage loan to finance the rest.

Habitat for Humanity provides a powerful pay-it-forward model, where donations to the charity resonate for many years to come, transforming lives and enabling families to lay the foundation for a brighter future. Affordable housing is an important foundation for reducing poverty and achieving economic growth. Habitat families experience better health, educational and economic outcomes.

A legacy gift in your will is a simple way to help Habitat for Humanity Victoria support more families on their journey in building strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership. You can leave cash, real estate, or securities. Leaving a legacy gift is the most efficient way to significantly contribute to a charity and ease the burden of your future estate.

You can achieve your financial and philanthropic goals at any stage of your life, with a recurring gift of hope. You can choose to contribute monthly or at other designated regular intervals, and no donation is too small.

For more information, or to make a donation, email giving@habitatvictoria, call 250-480-7688 ext. 103, or go to habitatvictoria.com

BUILD A LEGACY AND HELP TRANSFORM LIVES Consider giving a lasting gift to help local families build a strong foundation for a brighter future.

For more information, contact giving@habitatvictoria.com 250.480.7688 ext.103 habitatvictoria.com

16 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

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The story behind fleeing

Growing a Stronger Community Together When we talk about having a stronger community, we invariably end up talking about those important issues that affect us all in one way or another: housing and homelessness, support for vulnerable people, caring for seniors and children. To make our community stronger, we need to invest in serving our most vulnerable people – those who are lacking in supports and resources. When we care for people, we see our community getting stronger and healthier.

Did you know that The Cridge Centre has been caring for our community for the past 148 years? When you invest in The Cridge Centre, you are investing in YOUR community.

We serve over 2000 vulnerable individuals annually in 8 main program areas: Seniors’ assisted living Child Care Housing and supports for women leaving domestic violence An outreach worker for young parents Housing and supports for refugee and immigrant families Respite support for families with children with a disability Housing and programs for survivors of brain injury Services and advocacy for women who have received brain injuries as a result of Intimate Partner Violence.

Call us today to learn more about planned giving 250 995 6419 or email jlinka@cridge.org

act justly love mercy walk humbly

By Marlene Goley, Manager of The Cridge Transition House and Outreach Services e often talk about women fleeing from abuse as a quick moment of packing up and getting out the door -- but there is so much more to “fleeing” than the moment of leaving. Fleeing is a complicated story of terror, resilience, and perseverance.

Amanda endured years of abuse from her husband. It started with criticism of everything she did and later escalated to physical violence. His violent outbursts became more frequent, and Amanda contemplated leaving many times.

Only it wasn’t just about packing up and getting out the door. Where would she go? Amanda started to believe all the horrible things he had been calling her for years.

He always said if she ever left, he would hunt her down and no one would ever find her body. Amanda was terrified to stay and even more terrified to leave.

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Photo by Nuong-Nhân, Pexels

After many years, Amanda’s terror of staying with her husband became stronger than her terror of escaping. She knew she would have to plan carefully how to escape.

She searched for places that could help and finally found the number of a transition house. With her heart pounding, she called and made her plan. Over the next several months, Amanda hid some clothes and a bit of money. Then, when she was ready and her husband was out, she left. The leaving was quick, but it had been months in the making.

Fleeing is not a moment, and it is not the end of a woman’s story of leaving – it is just the beginning of a journey of healing, hope and reclaiming her life. Whenever you hear about a woman fleeing or you hear someone ask, “Why doesn’t she just leave?” -- remember Amanda.

With your donation, we can offer women like Amanda safety and support as they rebuild their lives.

Donate to cridge.org/give3/

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CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021 | 17

KidSport Greater Victoria’s ongoing commitment to kids in financial need, So ALL Kids Can Play

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A chance for you to be twice as nice this holiday season!

We’re on a mission to raise $30,000 to support local kids in financial need this holiday season! That’s a gift of sport for 100 children and youth who would otherwise be left out of the action.

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t has been another year of challenge and change for many, but also of renewed optimism and motivation for our organization – we hope you have felt the same.

We are grateful to have seen many children and youth return to sport this year. We know many more children and their families are still looking to get back in the game.

Too often, financial need is a barrier to participation.

KidSport Greater Victoria is here to help. Over the last two decades, we have funded over 13,700 local children and youth in need into the sports of their choice. We have done so by providing over $3,300,000 in season of sport registration fees to clubs throughout the Capital Regional District, so those children can get off the sidelines and into the game.

Need among local families has never been higher. Thanks to Peninsula Co-op’s incredible commitment to our 2021 Give the Gift of Sport campaign, supporters have

an amazing opportunity to double their impact. The first $15,000 in local donations received will be matched by Peninsula Co-op.

Donations of $20+ are tax deductible. To donate, please scan the QR code on this page for a direct link to the campaign page, or visit www.kidsportvictoria.ca.

KidSport Greater Victoria remains committed, for the long term, to ensuring ALL kids have opportunity to play. Through sport, children and youth gain resilience, confidence, leadership skills, physical literacy, fitness, and much more.

Could you, or someone you know, use financial help to get your kids back in the game?

Please visit kidsportvictoria.ca for more information, or to apply for support.

In a position to donate or consider a fundraising event benefiting KidSport Greater Victoria? We would love to hear from you.

Thank you to Peninsula Co-op for their amazing commitment to match up to $15,000 in donations received this season!

Give now at www.kidsportvictoria.ca and double your impact.

In the words of the parent of a recent grant recipient: “Thank you thank you thank you! Your generous gift has made it possible for Jakob to continue in the gymnastics program. When your child finds something that is theirs it’s amazing to watch, and given all of the changes he has had to deal with in the last 18 months I am so very grateful he can continue in this program. Thank you again.”

- Kind regards, J and J.

www.kidsportvictoria.ca | 250.380.1518

Please scan code with your smart phone camera to link to donation site.

18 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A legacy of healing and the power of a will: Dr. Polina Parizeau’s story

D

r. Polina Parizeau dedicated her life to caring for others, leaving behind a legacy of healing that will continue because of the generous gift she made to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation (VHF) in her will. The Victoria Hospitals Foundation supports priority equipment needs at Royal Jubilee, Victoria General, and Gorge Road hospitals.

From the age of six, Dr. Parizeau knew she wanted to be a doctor.

“Her life revolved around caring for others. She was born to be a doctor, it was her calling,” says her daughter, Denyse.

Dr. Parizeau studied medicine in Russia and graduated from medical school in 1941.

After World War II, she emigrated from Europe and became one of Canada’s first female anesthesiologists. She practiced at St. Joseph’s Hospital from the 1950s until her retirement in 1980.

Early in Dr. Parizeau’s career, she once stayed up all night with a young boy with asthma, hand-ventilating him with an Ambu bag because there were not enough

ventilators that night. Medicine has evolved dramatically since then, but the lasting impression of such memories inspired her to make several gifts to VHF during her lifetime.

Dr. Parizeau’s gifts supported vital equipment purchases, including a leading-edge monitoring system that measures carbon dioxide levels in the blood, providing doctors with real-time information about the quality of a patient’s breathing.

Dr. Parizeau knew that care teams need access to leading-edge equipment to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

After she retired from medicine, Dr. Parizeau’s instincts continued to guide her to help people. “For me, it’s all about the patients,” she told VHF in 2013, and she continued to be a generous supporter of worldclass healthcare on Vancouver Island for the rest of her life. And, thanks to a gift left in her will, patients will continue to benefit tremendously from Dr. Parizeau’s legacy.

We are so grateful to Dr. Parizeau and her family. To recognize her commitment to medicine, the surgical staff room at Victoria

General Hospital was named in her honour.

This tribute serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and generosity— two qualities she embodied to the fullest.

Dr. Parizeau was a kindhearted, passionate visionary, and our community will feel the impact of her contributions for years to come.

Like Dr. Parizeau, You Can Make a Difference Through a Gift in Your Will By leaving a gift to VHF in your will, you can make a bigger contribution than you ever thought possible to support our local caregivers and help provide them with the tools they need to care for their patients.

Many donors believe that they can’t support both their loved ones and their favourite cause in their will. The truth is, just a small percentage of your estate left to charity can have a big impact, while still leaving the majority for loved ones. Choosing to support your charity can also reduce and, in some cases, even eliminate the taxes to be paid.

You don’t need to be wealthy to make a gift to charity in your will. Regardless of the size of your estate, you can be a part of this pow-

erful movement for change. Learn more about the legacy you can create.

Your Role in the Future of Healthcare Inspired by Dr. Parizeau’s story and interested in making a gift to our local Victoria hospitals in your estate? Donating to our hospitals in your will, including a gift of annuities or real estate, is one of the greatest acts of generosity you can make.

No great wealth is required to give, just the willingness to plan.

If you want more information, you or your financial adviser can talk to our Manager of Leadership & Legacy Giving, Beth Cairns, by email vhf@islandhealth.ca or by phone at 250-519-1750. Or, visit our website to learn more: victoriahf.ca/will-and-estates The Victoria Hospitals Foundation works in partnership with Island Health to enable donations to every area of care at Royal Jubilee, Victoria General, and Gorge Road hospitals.

As Island Health’s charitable partner, we raise donations for medical equipment, special projects, education, and research.

Support Our Victoria Hospitals Leave a gift in your will to advance Royal Jubilee, Victoria General, and Gorge Road hospitals for generations to come “For me, it’s all about the patients,” Dr. Polina Parizeau told the Victoria Hospitals Foundation in 2013. Dr. Parizeau’s calling to help others propelled her desire to support local healthcare in many ways, including giving through the Victoria Hospitals Foundation.

After she retired from medicine, Dr. Parizeau’s instincts continued to guide her to help people. Thanks to a gift left in her will, patients will continue to benefit tremendously from Dr. Parizeau’s legacy.

Just like Dr. Parizeau, you can make an incredible difference for local hospitals and Vancouver Island patients by including the Victoria Hospitals Foundation in your will.

You don’t need to be wealthy to make a gift to charity in your will.

Regardless of the size of your estate, you can be a part of this powerful movement for change. Learn more about the legacy you can create at Royal Jubilee, Victoria General, and Gorge Road hospitals by calling us today at 250-519-1750 or emailing us at vhf@islandhealth.ca.

In the pursuit of advancing healthcare on Vancouver Island, the Victoria Hospitals Foundation has partnered with Will Power, a national movement to educate Canadians about the power they have to make a difference through their wills.

Find more resources at: willpower.ca/charities/ victoria-hospitals-foundation

Many donors believe that they can’t support both their loved ones and their favourite cause in their will. The truth is, just a small percentage of your estate left to charity can have a big impact, while still leaving the majority for loved ones. Choosing to support your charity can also reduce and, in some cases, even eliminate the taxes to be paid.

LEARN MORE & START A CONVERSATION Speak to our Leadership & Legacy Giving Manager, Beth Cairns.

ONLINE victoriahf.ca/will

BY EMAIL vhf@islandhealth.ca

BY PHONE 250-519-1750

20 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Responding to our community

Tiffany volunteers her time to help others

W

hat often defines people is how we react during difficult times. As a community, we have shown tremendous compassion and resilience during the hardest circumstances any of us could ever imagine. The non-profit sector taps into that strength and mobilizes people to create positive change together. At United Way, we call that local love.

The past two years have truly tested all of us and our services. During the pandemic, we narrowed our focus to ensure the greatest positive impact on our most vulnerable populations.

For isolated seniors, we created our More than Meals program. This home delivery program provides not only nutritious meals to seniors in their own homes, but

also provides much-welcomed companionship for these individuals. We hear many stories of how new and deep friendships have evolved between volunteers and seniors, often serving as the highlight of the senior’s week.

We’d like to introduce you to Becky.

Becky is 96 years old and lives on her own.

Every Thursday through the More Than Meals Program, Becky receives a friendly visit, which she deems a critical part in helping her achieve her desire to age at home.

Our Blue Love Campaign has been a difference maker. It is for people struggling with mental health and addictions and we are working to raise $1 Million by the end of the year to fund mental health counselling,

peer support and outreach services. This funding will provide much-needed support to a dozen local community organizations and will shorten waitlists for people looking for help. From this program, we hear stories like Tiffany’s – an individual who received counselling help and now volunteers her time to help others.

Beyond individuals, we recognize that the pandemic has had a significant impact on families. Job losses, rising housing and food costs are all added stressors for local families on top of the health concerns. Last year, we worked with a media partner and several generous lead donors to help fund a network of ten local neighbourhood houses.

This funding translated to programs like food hampers and initiatives to help youth.

Tapping into community compassion As a non-profit fundraiser and community impact investor, United Way’s local connections and partnerships have proven valuable to the areas we work in, connecting people with the services that they need most. We work collaboratively with front-line community organizations, postsecondary institutions, local businesses and individual donors and volunteers to design effective strategies that address complex human services issues. As we are a local organization, we pride ourselves in our local knowledge and use that expertise to lead, convene and facilitate solutions to create positive change in peoples’ lives.

There are many things that remain constant despite all the hardships: how we care for one another, our strong sense of community pride, and our love for everything local. Our individual and families of donors, local businesses, governments and the labour sector all continue to step up and give generously through the good and bad times. We are eternally grateful.

United Way Southern Vancouver Island has supported Southern Vancouver Island through decades, working through challenges that tested our resilience and the resilience of our community members. We will continue to address and respond to the complex needs of our community long into the future as we recover and rebuild from the pandemic; working together to create local good by uniting people.

Mark Breslauer, CEO, United Way Southern Vancouver Island

“United Way Southern Vancouver Island has supported our community for over 80 years and the pillar of strength created by United Way has never been more important than right now. In addition to being an annual donor, I have named United Way in my Will. Please consider joining Amanda and me in making Greater Victoria a safe and resilient place for all in the years to come.”

- Bruce Williams, CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce

Why leave a Legacy Gift with United Way? These extraordinary, unpredictable times have led many of us to consider what the future holds for ourselves, our families and our communities. While we can’t predict the future, we can help safeguard the future through a Legacy Gift in your Will.

Planned effectively, these gifts can provide you with substantial financial benefits and tax savings, while ensuring that the issues you care about will continue to be supported in the future.

You can trust United Way to be there for you and for the community.

We have been working collaboratively for more than 80 years to create lasting improvements in the health and wellbeing of adults, families, youth and children on Southern Vancouver Island. United Way is more than just a funder. As a leader in the charitable sector, we leverage our expertise to act as a catalyst for real change.

Help us build a strong community where no one gets left behind, now and into the future.

For more info: Darryl Els Donor Relations – Individual & Planned Giving United Way Southern Vancouver Island (250) 220-7365 darryl.els@uwsvi.ca

uwsvi.ca

Southern Vancouver Island

Show your local love

22 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Two easy ways to change the life of a local senior this holiday season

Eldercare Foundation is launching a Resident-in-Need fund to help long-term care residents facing urgent personal care needs they can’t afford, like hearing aid batteries

R

ight now, as you read these words, there’s a senior living in a Greater Victoria long-term care facility who, quite literally, has nothing to wear. They live with a chronic condition that’s slowly transforming their body, but can’t afford new clothes adapted to their needs.

A few weeks ago another senior, also in long-term care, broke his dentures. He was forced to give up solid food because he couldn’t afford a new set.

Each month, broken hearing aids, dead batteries, empty PolyGrip tubes, and lost glasses – seemingly simple issues for most of us – become major life events for some of Greater Victoria’s most vulnerable residents. They simply lack the money to buy what they need. And while many Canadians assume that government programs will help seniors as they age, the truth is that the quality of life available to seniors who depend on these programs is often a lot less than any of us would want for our loved ones.

Canada launched the Old Age Security

(OAS) program in 1952. It paid seniors aged 70+ up to $40 each month to help with their basic needs. In 1967, two additional programs came online in the form of the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), and the benchmark age was lowered to 65. The amounts given to seniors have increased with inflation in the decades since, but not much else has changed.

In contrast, the lives of seniors and their ‘basic’ needs have changed. Dramatically.

In 1952, the average life expectancy in Canada was nearly 69 years. It rose slightly to 71 years by 1967, but today it’s a whopping 83 years, and many seniors live well past their 100th birthdays in local long-term care facilities. This means that seniors have to stretch their savings a whole lot longer than the designers of Canada’s social safety net expected.

Among those elderly residents who outlive their savings (and outlive other family members who could help them), many will receive just $1,000 to $1,500 in monthly income from

London Drugs’ Stocking Stuffers for Seniors helps provide needed items for long-term care residents who no longer have family to buy them Christmas presents OAS, CPP, and GIS payments combined. With 80% going direct to the government for longterm care costs, there’s little left for everything not covered by long-term care: clothes, medications, dentures, hearing aids, glasses, outside health visits, personal care items (shampoo, deodorant, razors, etc.), wheelchairs, entertainment, and more.

For a senior who finds themselves in these circumstances, something as simple as a $20 package of new hearing aid batteries can be a life changing gift – one that saves them from loneliness, isolation, and depression.

An easy way to help is by visiting the London Drugs locations on Yates Street in Victoria, or on Sooke Road at Colwood Corners for the Stocking Stuffers for Seniors program. From November 12th to December 8th, Christmas trees displayed in-store will be covered with holiday wish lists created for local seniors living in long-term care who no longer have family to buy them presents.

Shoppers can pick the senior they’d like to help, and drop off their gifts in-store.

The wish lists are often a mix of practical

items like blankets and toiletries, magazines for entertainment, and holiday treats and candies. But for seniors living with advanced dementia, the gifts play a doubly special role. Christmas is one of the few life events that many local seniors have repeated each year throughout their long lives. This repeated act helps create strong memories that are resistant to their disease.

For them, opening presents on Christmas morning provides the rare chance to reconnect with happy memories from times gone by, reminding them of all that they’ve achieved in their lives.

A second opportunity to help is offered

by Eldercare Foundation – a local charity dedicated to improving care and quality of life for local seniors. This holiday season they’re working to create a $5,000 Resident-in-Need Fund – a special pool of money that can be used specifically to support seniors in long-term care facing urgent personal care needs.

Details and donation options can be found on their website at www.gvef.org

SPREAD KINDNESS AND HELP PROTECT LOCAL SENIORS

Eloise has been terribly lonely since her hearing aid broke.

With only a pension for income – 80% of which goes to the government for her long-term care – she can’t afford a new one. She’s surrounded by people, but feels cut off and alone.

Please give today at www.gvef.org/Kindness Your gift of $10, $20, or $30 each month will Spread Kindness to more than 1,500 local seniors every single day who need your help to receive care, enjoy quality of life, and to age with dignity. Thank you!

www.gvef.org • 250-370-5664 1454 Hillside Ave, Victoria, BC V8T 2B7 Note: some details have been changed to protect the identity of local seniors in need.

Registered Charity #898816095RR0001

Your donation to Eldercare can buy hearing aids and batteries for low-income seniors in care like Eloise.

BGC South Vancouver Island Every Kid is One Caring Adult Away from Being a Success Story! - Josh Shipp

What makes BGC South Vancouver Island so successful in changing lives? > Our doors are always open, no one is turned away > We help youth who...

- Need a place to go after school - Live risky lifestyles - Live in poverty - Are facing jail time - Are homeless - May be teen parents - Have addiction or mental health issues > Our youth to adult ratios are low so we keep our personalized support & mentoring high > We build on each child's strengths, developing capacity, character & capability, step by step > We feed our kids nutritious meals & snacks every day which is often the only healthy food they receive

YOUR LEGACY WILL...

Mostly it looks like fun.

Well, it is. What you don't see (we plan it this way) is the intentional guidance & instruction that is part of every interaction, every activity, every program, every relationship - every day.

YOUR HELP SAVES LIVES

Help more than 1,200 children & youth every year:

• Eat breakfast, healthy meals & snacks so they have a fighting chance to learn, grow & develop • Have a safe place to belong, learn new skills & build positive relationships • Overcome learning barriers so they will graduate from high school & thrive in the world • Discover their curiosity & spark their desire to learn

69%

of Club alumni say that

BGC saved their life

HELP NOW!

Please join an exclusive group by giving a lasting gift of hope for the future through:

• Your written will • Your insurance policy • Your gift of property • An endowment fund in your family name

Imagine... the life you will change by leaving your legacy!

South Vancouver Island

giving@bgcsvi.org

250.384.9133

ADVERTISING FEATURE

CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021 | 25

Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence

I

t is a quiet summer morning as the sun rises over the field at PISE, the birds are in song and there is a gentle and nervous buzz of laughter and chatter as families arrive for the first day of summer camp. Today is a special day as the PISE team is excited to welcome a special sibling duo, Khalil (older brother) and Mariam (younger sister), to camp.

Khalil and Mariam’s family were newcomers to Canada having arrived during the Syrian refugee crisis. Because of Mariam’s diagnosis, the family was working with an Occupational Therapist from the Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health, who was also familiar with PISE. This connection created the opportunity for the family to apply to the Play Your Way grant, which offers families on limited incomes from our community the opportunity for their children to participate in PISE programs at no cost.

Mariam, Khalil and their 2 other siblings have participated in PISE programs, such as Power Physical Literacy and Summer Camps, for the last 3 years. The impact of COVID-19 on the opportunities for all children to participate in organized activities was huge, particularly for those experiencing a disability. Youth programs were also impacted, meaning that crucial social connections and

Bringing joy andPACIFIC safe INST/ PISE physical activity 3x5 to over 5000 92266 kids in Victoria during the pandemic.

Mariam, Camp Leader photo by Kevin Light

experiences were missed. While searching for these connections and experiences in the community, Khalil asked if he could volunteer at our summer camp to support Mariam in adapting and modifying games and activities.

As an organization that prides itself on including all individuals within a physical activity setting, we were more than happy to have Khalil on board. Khalil rose to the occasion and provided Mariam and our team with wonderful support, discovered his leadership skills and gained new friendships.

The generosity of donors through the Gift of Play campaign offers families and their children, like Khalil and Mariam, the opportunity to participate in fun, quality physical activity programs.

PISE’s programs are not only active, fun and engaging, they also focus on building developmentally appropriate movement skills, developing confidence to engage in physical activity and building motivation to play in a wide range of contexts. By doing this, we know that children of all abilities and skill levels will be encouraged to lead healthy and active lives.

Give the Gift of Play today and help PISE positively transform lives through healthy activity and sport!

Donate @ www.pise.ca/donate/

GIVE THE

GIFT OF DONATE TO PISE.CA/DONATE

TODAY

26 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Saanich Peninsula Hospital Donors make the difference

SAANICH PENINSULA H

T

here has always been a lot of love for our community hospital here on the Saanich Peninsula. The Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation was started because the community recognised how valuable it is to have a local hospital, and were prepared to fight for it. Over the years the small hospital has been transformed into a beacon of healthcare with a wide range of services and specialist equipment as well as highly skilled and committed staff.

It is thanks to the passion and forethought of donors in our community that residents of the Saanich Peninsula and southern Gulf Islands have access to this special hospital.

Your legacy can also be one of caring; with planning today you can support healthcare for generations to come.

A Legacy of Caring Whether retirement is no longer a distant destination, or you are sitting down for the first time to begin planning for your family’s future, preparing a will can cause us to look back over what we have accomplished in our lives and think ahead to determine what more we can do for causes we believe in and organizations we care about.

One of the most significant decisions we can make is how to structure our estates to make best use of our assets.

This enables us not only to provide for our descendants, but also to make a positive and lasting difference to the world they’ll inherit through a legacy gift.

There are a variety of easy ways to leave a legacy gift: talk with your legal or financial advisor to answer your questions as you explore the opportunities.

Why do people choose to leave legacy gifts to the Foundation?

As with most donations, legacy gifts come from the hearts of patients or family members who have had a meaningful experience while in the hospital. Maybe a parent, spouse, close friend or relative has received exceptional care from medical staff at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

People feel a strong desire to ensure staff can continue to provide the same outstanding level of care to other patients right here in the community, and into the future.

How is a legacy gift different from making a simple donation?

A legacy gift can enable you to provide a larger donation to a cause you believe in and often receive significant tax savings for your estate. Legacy gifts also continue to give long after the donors have passed away, often enabling them to give much more than they could have during their lifetime.

Why are legacy gifts important?

How do they differ from annual campaigns?

Both types of giving are important.

Annual campaigns are designed to meet immediate, specific goals. Legacy gifts are often invested, not spent, and this helps to provide long-term financial stability and enables us to weather economic downturns when charitable donations can drop.

If we don’t have a large estate, is there still a possibility of making a legacy gift?

Of course. In fact, a significant portion of the Foundation’s capital fund comes from people who have lived their lives in relatively modest circumstances, but

considered it important to leave a legacy.

They have created endowments or made bequests of RRSPs or RRIFs, or even publicly traded securities. Did you know that from a tax perspective, donations of shares are an especially beneficial way of expressing your support for the work of the Foundation. Be sure to talk to your Investment Advisor to get an opinion on the timing of any donation.

Is it possible to make a gift without affecting our children’s inheritance?

Absolutely. To encourage more philanthropic giving, the federal government has changed the tax treatment of charitable gifts. In many cases, legacy gifts can be structured to create tax savings or even to take advantage of generous tax credits.

This means you can make a legacy gift to |the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation while ensuring the amount you wish to leave to your children and grandchildren is unchanged.

When considering your planned giving, consult your legal or financial advisor before making a legacy gift. For more information on planned giving go to sphf.ca

28 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sylvia’s legacy BC Cancer 3x5 101479

S

ylvia Shelton was the hardest working person her family knew.

She was passionately dedicated to her home community, her work, as well as her family and loved ones.

A lawyer since 1976, Sylvia always talked about retiring, but she never did. She was there for her community, often offering a lot of legal work pro-bono for those in need. Some clients even gave her artwork as payment, which she happily accepted.

Causes that impacted her community were close to her heart, so she was often found hosting her own bottle drive fundraisers in the neighbourhood. This was the essence of who Sylvia was.

In 2019, at the age of 69, Sylvia passed away from ovarian cancer.

Still as dedicated to her community as ever, she worked up until her final days.

Her life was defined by her generous spirit and now that legacy of giving continues with a gift in her will to BC Cancer Foundation.

Sylvia witnessed the innovations and expertise at BC Cancer firsthand and was inspired to give back.

“She knew she wouldn’t benefit from this donation herself, but others will and this was to help those who would come after her,” says Mike Shelton, Sylvia’s nephew.

Sylvia’s gift will be used to advance genomics research, to help innovate and inform treatment options for patients in the future.

“Sylvia knew she had everything she needed, she worked so hard but she was all about the simple things,” says Mike. “She was always aware that many people weren’t in her position, and she felt she had a personal responsibility to give back, which she was happy to do.”

Sylvia’s commitment to the future of her community will help fuel tomorrow’s cures.

To find out more about planned giving at the BC Cancer Foundation, contact the Foundation at legacy@bccancer.bc.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE

CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021 | 29

Mind & Body: a complete healing journey for kids

TOUR THE TREEs and text to vote for your favourite tree at the Bay Centre until January 4.

For more information visit festivaloftreesbc.ca

W

hen it comes to helping children with serious medical conditions, treating their physical ailments is just one part of the equation. Addressing their mental and emotional needs is just as important, but can be challenging without the right resources.

BC Children’s Hospital is the only hospital in the province devoted exclusively to the care of children, with a focus on treating the whole child—physically and mentally.

The hospital provides specialized care BC’s kids can’t receive anywhere else, including 3,600 patients from Vancouver Island alone in 2020.

More than 95,000 kids and youth across BC are impacted by mental health issues, but only 40 per cent receive expert help for their healing journey. Evidence is emerging that practicing mindfulness helps youth increase resiliency and helps them better cope with chronic illness, pain, psychological distress and other health challenges.

Mckenna is a university student who has endured multiple serious

health issues, including two hip surgeries and chronic pain. This led to stress, anxiety and depression that pushed her to the breaking point—until she was referred to the Centre for Mindfulness.

The Centre for Mindfulness at BC Children’s is a leader in mindfulness-based interventions, helping patients and families learn ways to focus and live in the present moment with self-compassion.

This allows them to better manage difficult thoughts and feelings, which can play an important role in their healing journey.

Mindfulness helped Mckenna deal with the anxiety she had battled throughout her school years and gave her the tools she needed to navigate life with chronic pain.

This year’s Festival of Trees is supporting the Centre for Mindfulness and will help youth, families, caregivers and health professionals develop skills to manage stress and anxiety, making a significant difference in their lives.

Donate now @ festivaloftreesbc.ca

30 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Exploring our pathway to possibility

By Kira Rowsell

E

veryone has their own unique path.

At Power To Be, we strive to make the outdoors a more accessible space, inviting those who face a barrier to join us as we form new paths and discover what is truly possible in nature.

From hiking and kayaking, to camping and snowshoeing, Power To Be creates access to nature for youth, families and adults living with cognitive, physical, financial, and social barriers.

Like with any journey, you can expect to run into many pathways as you navigate challenges, triumphs, and maybe even some barriers. Imagine you’re on a hike in a forest, with a specific destination in mind. As you walk along the trail approaching your destination, you are stopped; a tree has fallen directly in your path, and you see no way around it. Sometimes, the pathway that

leads to one’s dreams and ambitions can be blocked—by fallen trees, large rocks, or muddy puddles.

At Power To Be, we remove the barriers that stand in the way of our participants’ goals, guiding them as they choose their own direction; learning, thriving, and growing along the way. Whether it’s a cognitive barrier holding you back from reaching the top of the rock-climbing wall, a physical barrier preventing you from exploring a trail, or a financial barrier keeping you from participating in a camping trip, our inclusive programs ensure that everyone is welcome and provides the space to explore what’s possible. We will find a way around that fallen tree; whether supporting our participants with adaptive equipment, or simply providing a safe space to explore, Power To Be is here to guide those in our community on their journey.

The therapeutic benefits of spending time in the outdoors are abundant. On top of providing recreation, community, and a healthy lifestyle, spending time in nature fuels the body, guides the heart, and mends the soul.

Nature shows us peace, inspires us to wonder, and connects us to the earth and to each other. It is in these spaces that we discover our true capabilities and who we are.

So far this year, our participants have spent over 900 hours in nature—153 days on the trails, 80 days on the water, and 18 days in the rain. Additionally, our dedicated volunteers have collectively given 2,300 hours to supporting our programs. We are proud of the new trails we’ve blazed as we navigated through the past two years, implementing virtual, one-on-one, and household programs, to ensure our community remained connected to nature and each other.

As we look ahead, we are excited for what the future holds. In the spring of 2022, we will be welcoming our community to a new accessible space at our Prospect Lake site. This “Gateway to Nature” is comprised of a series of innovative, sustainable, inclusive buildings, that will allow us to enhance our programs and elevate our impact. As we begin to see our core programs come back to life, we look forward to all our adventures full of creativity, inspiration, and discovery.

This season, we invite you to join us for a journey along the #PathwayToPossibility as we share inspiring and heartwarming stories of Power To Be participants and their families. To learn more and to donate, please visit powertobe.ca/pathway Your donation will help to make nature accessible and inclusive for everyone.

32 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Resounding generosity: $1M legacy donation from Olga Yakimovich

V

ictoria Hospice is pleased to announce a $1M donation from the estate of Olga Yakimovich, a leader in the local construction industry and a beloved mother and grandmother.

Among the three largest gifts received in the organization’s history, this donation ensures Victoria Hospice can provide compassionate end-of life care to many people when they need it most.

Olga designated the gift in her will before she died in February 2020 at the age of 95.

“This gift speaks to Olga’s deep generosity and tremendous foresight,” Kevin Harter, Victoria Hospice CEO says. “The many ways she contributed to the community over the years and her commitment to improving conditions for people at the end of life and the elderly was absolutely wonderful. We are so grateful to her and the entire Yakimovich family.”

A successful entrepreneur, Olga was as respected for her business acumen as she was for her kind-hearted generosity – she always gave back to the community that supported her.

The Yakimovich family has helped shape Victoria’s landscape over recent decades, constructing apartment buildings around the city that many local people call home.

“I marvel at my mother’s history,” says Olga’s son Ernie Yakimovich. “As a child in her native Ukraine, her two sisters died during a pandemic. Mom then immigrated with her parents to The Pas Manitoba and that’s where she met and married Dad before settling in Victoria.” “For immigrants, they accomplished so much, bringing up a family and creating a building empire.

Through hard work and without asking for any special assistance, Mother was a dominant woman pioneer in the Victoria construction scene. I look at her accomplishments with great pride that both Mom and Dad have been an inspiration to me as well as others.”

When her husband George died in 1997, the bereavement support Olga received from Victoria Hospice inspired her to give back.

“Mother was able to connect with others in similar circumstance through her association with hospice. These outings were a great comfort to her and reinforce the value of hospice,” Ernie says.

This is a very special legacy donation, Victoria Hospice Planned and Legacy Giving Officer Shelley Engelhardt says. “The richness of Olga’s life is evident in the successful business she built, the myriad ways she gave back, and the large and loving family she left behind, including five great-great-grandchildren.”

Victoria Hospice is so grateful to be the beneficiary of her generous legacy gift on behalf of people facing end-of-life. It will carry her compassion forward by providing comfort and care to hospice patients and families in the very community her family helped build.

Our deep appreciation goes to Olga and the Yakimovich family for their kindness, foresight, and generosity.

Victoria Hospice celebrates every legacy gift with gratitude. To find out how you can create your own legacy of compassion in support of hospice care, please visit victoriahospice.org/leavealegacy

Grief during the holidays If ever there was a time to treat yourself like a cherished friend, this is it.

Grief can be the loneliest feeling at any time of year. But during the holidays, grief can be even tougher. It’s normal to feel especially tender and vulnerable during the festive season and grief may reappear whether you are surrounded by friends or if you are alone. The holidays may remind you how the death of someone has affected your life, even if the relationship was troublesome.

If you are experiencing grief and loss this holiday season, • Allow yourself to do things differently – or not at all.

• Try to make room for your feelings, whatever they may be.

• Let people know how you are doing and accept offers of help.

• Grief requires a tremendous amount of energy. Rest and slow down if you can.

• Remember the ebb and flow of grief is natural and a sign of healthy coping.

• You may need to pay more attention to yourself and consider, what do I most need now?

• Treat yourself with the same patience and kindness you would offer to a friend.

Victoria Hospice bereavement counselling and support groups are open to everyone.

Most of these services are free thanks to our generous donors. To learn more about Victoria Hospice Bereavement Services, call 250-519-3040 or visit www.victoriahospice.org

In Memory of

M y M om PHOTOGRAPHY BY @OOHOOHDARLING

Celebrate a Life

Celebrate C l b t your loved l d one by dedicating a star at VictoriaHospice.org/Celebrate “At Hospice, we talked about everything. Most importantly, we counted our blessings and enjoyed our time together.”

You can also fill out the form below and mail it to Victoria Hospice. We will be honoured to add your star to the tree at the Victoria Hospice Community Support Centre.

— Sharon Lam remembers her Mom, Margaret Ng.

Thank you for your support of end-of-life care.

(More community stories at VictoriaHospice.org/Celebrate)

Celebrate a Life

My star is in memory of (full name). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

My message (print clearly) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MY DONAT TION IO ON

Here is my gift of £ $35 £ $60 £ $125 £ $1,000 £ Other $ . . . . . . . . . .

I prefer to make my gift by £ Cheque (made payable to Victoria Hospice)

.....................................................................

Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Postal Code . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

£ Visa £ MasterCard Credit Card number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expiry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CVV . . . . . . .

Please complete this form and mail to Victoria Hospice 4th Floor, Richmond Pavilion 1952 Bay Street, Victoria, BC V8R 1J8 You can contact us at 250-519-1744.

SPECIAL THANKS

Signature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

An official receipt for income tax purposes will be issued.

Charitable Reg. No. 11928-4230-RR0001.

We respect your privacy and do not sell, trade, lend or rent any of your personal information.

34 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

ADVERTISING FEATURE

CFAX Santas Anonymous – 44 years helping local children!

C

elebrating 44 years, CFAX Santas Anonymous Society is a homegrown children’s charity enhancing the lives of local children in need. 98% volunteer driven, the Society promotes volunteerism starting with the very young to the very young at heart. In 2019, volunteers donated 20,200 hours of skills, leadership and love to help bring a smile to local children facing poverty and the challenges life presents when families are in crisis. In 2020, facing new challenges with Covid, volunteers dedicated over 15,000 hours working through the year to deliver Christmas.

More for the Kids – A children’s charity with a Christmas name More than a Christmas charity, Santas Anonymous works year-round. Long after the Christmas decorations are tucked away, Santas participates in annual fundraising events, and ongoing planning to continue meeting the needs of the community. Special grants are awarded in five funding focuses: Hunger, Mental Health, Sport (Fun), Education, and the Greater Good.

Helping families in crisis is part of Santas’ history and future. Children fighting cancer and critical illness, children witnessing domestic violence, or a single mom who doesn’t have enough money to refill the oil tank for heat in the winter – hardship comes every day for local children, and CFAX Santas Anonymous Society’s Board of Directors takes the time to assess and respond to families in great need. Visit cfaxsantas.com

The future of CFAX Santas Anonymous!

What does the future look like for CFAX Santas Anonymous? We ask this question of our donors, board members, community partners (gifts in kind) and treasured volunteers. The most common response – we are making a difference and if we keep to our mission Enhancing the lives of local children in need, year round –CFAX Santas Anonymous will continue going strong for another 44 years.

The Board of Directors work hard to plan strategically each year, keep our costs low and ensuring delivery - directly to the children - stretches as far as possible and reaches thousands of children in a meaningful way.

We will continue to welcome new volunteers and community partners because there is no better joy than the feeling of giving back!

Miracle on Broad Street – The Radiothon Please join CFAX Santas Anonymous Society on Friday December 10, 2021 for Miracle on Broad Street. During this 12 hour radiothon you will hear stories of giving, stories from those receiving your generous gifts and you will enjoy local entertainment (including a few surprises from afar).

Together we will change a sad reality for an impoverished child living in our community touched by CFAX Santas Anonymous Society and such generous community support.

CFAX Santas Anonymous – 2021 Christmas Program CFAX Santas opened the application process to families on Oct 4 2021. By October 30th, Santas met capacity. 2,672 children, with parents/caregivers 2,247 adults for a total of 4,919 people.

What is in each Christmas Hamper?

Every registered family receives gifts for the children and food for the family.

Gifts: Each child receives 3 presents: One wish gift valued at $40; a $40 gift card for clothing, one gift worth $25 based on the child’s interests.

CFAX Santas Anonymous volunteers will package over 8,000 gifts this Christmas

Groceries and Gift 2020 (as far as you can see)

Food: Each family receives a threebag food hamper, that’s 3,600 bags of food and a grocery gift card of $75.00 for perishables: an increase from 2020.

Please stay connected We are a community charity and love to hear from you year-round. Visit our website for updates at cfaxsantas.coFollow us on

Facebook and Instagram @cfaxsantas CFAX Santas Anonymous Society 1420 Broad Street Victoria BC V8W 2B1 778-561-1070, cfax.santas@bellmedia.ca

CFAX Santas Anonymous

relies 100% on donor support!

How you can help?

Visit the Virtual Tree of Wishes

Tune in and join the Livestream of Miracle on Broad Street December 10th 2021

Or Donate Now to help local children year round

778-561-1070

36 | CAPITAL GIVING | AUTUMN 2021

BC CHILDREN’S HEALTH 3x5 142548

You can make a world of difference for Island families this season Make a gift today islandkidsfirst.com Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island has invested in the health of Island kids for 95 years. We’re here to harness the collective compassion of donors so that together, we can improve the lives of children and youth living with physical and mental health challenges, in every Island community.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

You can make a world of difference for Island kids like Nathan

I

n the midst of her second healthy pregnancy, Island mom Laura was caught off guard when she went into labour at only 34 weeks.

And when baby Nathan was only three days old, doctors had issues controlling his blood pressure and discovered that his kidneys were cystic. He needed to receive specialized care in Vancouver, and he needed it now.

After meeting with a specialist in Vancouver, Laura and her husband Dan were relieved to learn that while Nathan’s kidneys were large, they weren’t concerningly oversized. They were sent home to Nanaimo knowing that Nathan’s condition was mild.

That all changed, however, when they returned to the mainland for a six-month checkup and learned that Nathan’s kidneys had doubled in size. Nathan was diagnosed with a rare kidney condition. He would need to go on dialysis, and eventually need a transplant.

During little Nathan’s two years

of life, the family has already made the long trip from Nanaimo to Vancouver seven times. The reality of Nathan’s condition means that frequent travel to the mainland is the norm. For families like theirs, worries about their child’s health combined with the financial burden associated with travel including ferries, hotels, gas, and food, can simply be too much.

Thankfully, Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island’s Bear Essentials program is there; a family support program that assists with the costs of healthrelated travel and equipment for Island kids. With a long road ahead for Nathan’s health care journey, Bear Essentials can help to ease the burden.

“Thanks to Bear Essentials, we don’t have to make decisions about giving something else up to afford getting our child the health care he needs. It takes such a weight off our shoulders.” says Laura.

Make a difference. Make a gift at islandkidsfirst.com