In 2023, the Vancouver Police Foundation is extremely proud to have committed to funding 113 community programs and initiatives totaling more the $3 million! But what really stands out are the VPD members behind each grant, all of whom go above and beyond to build a safer Vancouver for all. These members volunteer their time to work with vulnerable youth and at-risk seniors. They help feed hungry families, give blankets to the unhoused, and so much more.
Earlier this month, the Foundation hosted a Grant Celebration event to recognize the efforts of these officers and their collective impact. All the programs and initiatives funded by the VPF fall into one of four pillars and we acknowledged the following commitments in each one (note, some funding is multi-year):
- Youth Programs – $670,650
- Mental Health & Addictions – $94,015
- Community Outreach & Engagement – $611,316
- Technology & Special Equipment – $1,844,202
Our ability to provide this funding is made possible by the generous support of our donors who share our vision of creating safer neighborhoods throughout Vancouver.
At the Grant Celebration, two awards were presented to recognize the efforts of remarkable VPD members. The first award is to honour a VPD member or civilian professional who has dedicated much time and effort to support the Vancouver Police Foundation. This year’s VPF Exemplary Service Award was shared by Davina Chung of VPD Finance and Lori Hemm of the Diversity, Community, Inclusion and Indigenous Relations Section. Each of these incredible women support the VPF through their respective roles, volunteer at many VPF events, and continue to go above and beyond to help us on a regular basis.
The second award is to recognize a VPD member who has made extraordinary contributions to the betterment and safety of our city. This year, the
VPF Canaccord Community Champion Award was presented to Constable Chris Birkett for his tireless contributions to the betterment and safety of our city. Chris has been the recipient of several VPF grants over the years and continues to come forward with incredible ideas and solution-oriented initiatives to support vulnerable populations across the city. Programs he has been involved with include start-up funding for Out on Patrol, the Strathcona Bike Smart program, VPD Film Fest, and a Pop-Up Policing Station project – soon to be launched.
We extend our gratitude to Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, Chief Constable Adam Palmer, the VPD Executive Team, the VPF Board members and the Vancouver Police Board Directors, who joined us in celebration.
Last but not least, we want to thank the generous, amazing donors who were there that night, and the thousands more who were not. Without you, none of these programs nor the support to these amazing officers would be possible.
The Vancouver Police Foundation supports programs and initiatives that fall under one of four pillars: Youth Programs, Mental Health & Addictions, Community Outreach & Engagement, and Technology & Special Equipment. You can help build a safer Vancouver by donating to the Vancouver Police Foundation.
