We are so thankful for the generous community who supported the 18th annual Gift of Time Gala presented by Nicola Wealth.

Thanks to the generosity of over 600 guests, the event raised over $1.78 million for Canuck Place! The funds raised will help Canuck Place provide world-class pediatric palliative care to children and families across BC & Yukon.

Gift of Time Gala
Gift of Time attendees, J.J. Rawlinson, Rebecca Rawlinson, and Amanda Hlatky

Global BC’s Sonia Sunger hosted the memorable event which featured entertainment from youth performers from the MEI Screaming Eagles Marching Band and ShowStoppers, and dancing with DJ Marvel. Auctioneer Fred Lee energized the room during the live auction and funding important needs at Canuck Place.

“The community and connection displayed at Gift of Time was led by our Gala co-chairs, Heather Finlayson, Lucy Greer, and Robyn Lalani,” said Canuck Place CEO, Denise Praill. “They inspired a passionate and dedicated volunteer committee and hosted a memorable and impactful evening. Their leadership and commitment was pivotal to the success of the event.” The evening was also made possible thanks to incredible Canuck Place volunteers who continue to support the gala each year.

Canuck Place parents Erin and Federico Angel shared the story of their baby boy, Alejo, who received end-of-life care at home through the Canuck Place Enhanced Community Care program. With the support of Canuck Place nurses and counsellors, the Angel family were able to make precious memories together at home, surrounded by family and loved ones. Their memorable and moving speech captured the audience.

Canuck Place floated into our lives like a summer wind, warm and comforting.

Federico Angel

Canuck Place Dad

“Their compassion and expertise allowed us to spend time at home with Alejo and savour our time with him. With their support, loving care, and access to call the 24-Hour-Clinical-Care line, we knew we were not alone.”

canuck place family
The Angels, Canuck Place family

Attendees bid on exclusive auction items, as well as supported Canuck Place directly through Fund-A-Need. Guests also participated in a candle lighting ceremony, lighting a candle in honour of Alejo and the other children who have been cared for at Canuck Place over the past 28 years.

The funds raised from the Gift of Time Gala will support pediatric palliative care provided at Canuck Place. Last year Canuck Place had a 33% increase in inpatient admissions of children and families requiring pediatric palliative care and a 14% increase in outpatient community care. Patients on the Canuck Place program are the most medically complex and ill children in the province and funds from the Gift of Time Gala ensure families have special moments.

Canuck Place continues to raise 60% of our operating funds through community donors and corporate supporters including Nicola Wealth, the Citrine Foundation, GenCap, RBC, Alive Publishing Group, and Woodtone. Together, they help give lasting memories to families and help give short lives the gift of great days.

Watch Erin and Federico Angel’s speech during the Gift of Time Gala, where they tell the story of their son Alejo and their family’s journey with Canuck Place.

OUR SINCEREST GRATITUDE

We are so grateful to the committee, our sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who dedicated their time to make this event a success.

Want to make sure you get notified when tickets for next year’s gala become available? Click here to join our mailing list.

Interested in learning more about getting involved with the event? Contact our Associate Director of events, Courtenay Cardinal, or visit our events page for more details.