Connecting people who care with causes that matter^®

Connecting people who care with causes that matter was the impetus for publishing Victoria's Vital Signs four years ago. And, it continues to be our reason as we work our way through this global economic downturn - a time when we are needed more than ever.

Information and knowledge are at the heart of our ability to work with donors to make a philanthropic impact. Vital Signs has become a widely-used publication for our Foundation, our donors and many of the charitable organizations working in our community -- making the Victoria Foundation a key resource for vital information.

Research in a reader-friendly format is the root of Vital Signs. This year, we've added a special focus on youth - thanks to the generous support of the TELUS Victoria Community Board. We also have some new research this year as a result of a partnership we formed with seven other organizations in Greater Victoria. A survey that resulted in a happiness index for the region and the corresponding booklet adhered to the inside back cover are results of that partnership.

As a catalyst for networking, Vital Signs has been very successful in initiating and fuelling important conversations about our quality of life. One of those conversations resulted in Every Step Counts, a running program for people experiencing barriers and challenges with housing, mental health, addiction and social isolation.

A key challenge for philanthropy is sorting through competing priorities, identifying opportunities and creating space for deeper conversations and solutions. Our networks help us to engage community members and see trends, challenges and connections in our community.

Vital Signs provides a level of precision and drive to our community philanthropy. We hope you find it equally helpful and interesting.

Sandra Richardson                       Chuck Burkett         
CEO                                                Chair, Board of Directors