Reflecting on a Remarkable Year: 2023 Top Ten Highlights
As we approach the end of another transformative year, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we've had together in 2023. Your unwavering support and commitment to our mission have made this year one for the books, and we couldn't be more grateful to be part of this community.
Here are a few of our top moments from the year.
1. $5 Million Donation from the Al Roadburg Foundation
We kicked off 2023 with an extraordinary announcement. The Al Roadburg Foundation generously donated $5 million to benefit our 42-unit housing project on Burke Mountain in Coquitlam. This was the largest donation we have ever received. This contribution exemplifies the power of generosity and is an indication of what can be done when we all work together to create safe, stable, and affordable homes for families in need.
2. Community Engagement at Its Best: Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser
In February, 125 walkers joined us in North Vancouver for the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser, raising over $36,000 to support for the home we are building in the Baden Park project by Anthem on Mount Seymour Parkway. Sign up for next year and join us on February 24, 2024 as we aim to make an even greater impact together!
3. Reaching New Heights: Habitat for Humanity Step Up Challenge
On October 22, over 100 amazing individuals ran up six iconic towers in the heart of Vancouver, raising over $60,000 for our 2024 project in Coquitlam. That’s 2568 feet and 184 floors! The Step Up Challenge showcased not only athletic prowess but also unwavering support for a vital cause, proving that together, we can make affordable housing a reality.
4. Connecting with the Next Generation Through TikTok
Also in the spring, we ventured into the wide world of TikTok to connect with various members of our community on a more personal level. For more than half the year, our team explored the Lower Mainland, engaging in conversations about housing and affordability, amplifying our mission and building a stronger sense of community with the next generation.
5. Sporting for a Cause: Vancouver Golf Tour and Maui Jim Charity Pro-Am
We were so pleased to partner with the Vancouver Golf Tour as the charity of choice for the 2023 Maui Jim Charity Pro-Am. It was incredible to have so many dedicated volunteers and Partner Families come out to support the work being done at this tournament. Our ReStores got involved too by generously contributing some fantastic items to the auction. All together, this was an exciting time to further our mission through sportsmanship and community engagement.
6. Empowering Women: Benefit Cosmetics' Bold is Beautiful Campaign
Benefit Cosmetics' annual Bold is Beautiful campaign became a beacon of hope for organizations championing the empowerment of women and girls, including us. Habitat for Humanity Canada is one of the beneficiaries of this campaign. The proceeds from every sale at Benefit’s Brow Bars waxing services (for the month of August) were directed to initiatives that pave the way for brighter futures. Our office team lined up to get their eyebrows waxed in support! Check out the video here.
7. Abbotsford ReStore Featured in Commercial
Did you know our very own Abbotsford ReStore was the featured location in a national commercial that highlights the value of the ReStore? Many of our staff came out to help support the production (and if you look closely, you can even see a few rushing around in the background). This video is a great way to showcase ReStores and all that makes it such a special component of the Habitat for Humanity model. If you haven’t already seen it, you can click here to watch.
8. Sustainable Achievements: Environment and Sustainability Award
In the spring, we were honored to receive the Environment and Sustainability award at Habitat for Humanity Canada’s National Conference, recognizing our commitment to achieving Step Code 3 for all new build projects, with our recent 19-unit build attaining impressive results in third-party testing, including lower levels of noise and odour emissions, two of the most difficult areas of sustainability. We were also recognized as a leader in deconstruction, having partnered with the City of Vancouver to create the Rebuild Hub, a project salvaging usable materials from construction for resale through our network of Habitat for Humanity ReStores.
9. Advocacy for Affordable Housing: Collaboration with BC NDP, BC United, and The Green Party
In May, the Habitat for Humanity BC Caucus took a proactive stance in addressing the affordable housing crisis in our province. The CEOs of each Habitat affiliate in BC met with BC NDP, BC United, and The Green Party to raise awareness about the impactful work being done by our seven BC affiliates. We look forward to continued collaboration with our partners in government and the community.
10. The Power of Yes: Wrapping up the Year with a Call to Action
As we wrap up the year, we launched the Power of Yes campaign, urging our community to consider the profound impact their 'Yes' can have on the lives of those in desperate need of a home. With British Columbia in the midst of a housing crisis, community support is more critical than ever. Longboard Architectural Products partnered with us in this campaign, matching every dollar raised up to $20,000!
Thank you to each and every person who has been a part of our journey this year. Whether you are one of our Partner Families, a donor, a volunteer, a ReStore customer, or a supporter in other ways, you have made a lasting impact. As we eagerly anticipate 2024, we look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you as we make affordable housing a reality for more hard-working families in the Greater Vancouver area.
We wish you a joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!
