Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded, offering universal access to essential medical services. The bulk of hospital funding comes from provincial and territorial governments, covering operational costs like staffing, equipment, and basic infrastructure. However, government budgets alone can’t keep pace with the growing demand for innovation, advanced treatments, and patient-centered care. That’s where hospital foundations step in.

Hospital foundations are charitable powerhouses that help bridge the funding gap. They fuel life-saving research, fund cutting-edge technology, improve hospital facilities, and enhance the overall patient experience. In short, they’re essential partners in delivering the kind of care Canadians deserve, not just today, but for the future.

The Landscape of Hospital Foundations in Canada

Canada hosts a vast network of hospital foundations. According to the Canada Revenue Agency, there are over 5,000 public foundations in the country, many of which are affiliated with hospitals. These foundations collectively manage significant assets and contribute billions annually to the healthcare system.

Several hospital foundations stand out for their substantial contributions and impact:

SickKids Foundation (Toronto, ON): Supports The Hospital for Sick Children, one of the world's foremost pediatric healthcare institutions. The foundation funds research, education, and patient care initiatives. In regards to research, SickKids is Shaping the Future of Pediatric Healthcare with Precision Child Health. Precision Child Health at SickKids is about delivering highly individualized care, ensuring faster diagnoses, smarter treatments, and predictive healthcare that can stop diseases before they take hold.

This ambitious movement challenges the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to medicine. By integrating genetic, biological, and environmental data, SickKids is revolutionizing how childhood diseases are diagnosed, treated, and even prevented. Their five-year strategic plan is already making strides, bringing together clinical, research, education, and operational teams to develop innovative precision tools, expand access to personalized care, and ensure all children—regardless of their background—receive the best treatment possible.

UHN Foundation (Toronto, ON): Affiliated with the University Health Network—Canada’s largest health research organization—the UHN Foundation raises funds to support groundbreaking research, education, and excellence in patient care. As healthcare faces increasing challenges due to an aging population, more complex health needs, and rapid technological change, donations to UHN are critical. They empower clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals to advance knowledge and innovation in pursuit of a healthier world. Key areas of research include arthritis, brain health, diabetes, mental health, and stem cells, among others.

St. Michael's Hospital Foundation (Toronto, ON): The Foundation supports St. Michael’s Hospital and Providence Healthcare in tackling urban health challenges through innovative research and compassionate care. St. Michael’s is a fully affiliated teaching hospital, a Level 1 trauma centre, and a provincial leader in neurosurgery and cardiovascular care. It also hosts one of North America’s largest MS clinics.

As part of Unity Health Toronto with St. Joseph’s Health Centre and Providence Healthcare—the hospital provides care across the full spectrum. Unity Health ranks 11th among Canada’s top research hospitals (2023), with 114 scientists, 156 investigators, and 200,000 sq. ft. of research space.

Donations help break down barriers to care, build a new trauma centre, deliver holistic MS treatment, and drive research to stop MS for good. They also support the Schroeder BRAIN&HEART Centre in developing new treatments for brain, heart, and vascular diseases.

Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation (Calgary, AB): The Foundation supports groundbreaking child health programs, research, and family-centered care. Hospital-led research enabled nationwide newborn screening for cystic fibrosis, increasing the median survival age from 35 to 54. In sickle cell disease, specialists are now curing children using low-intensity blood and marrow transplants. Community donations also helped establish Canada’s first pediatric neurostimulation centre, using non-invasive techniques to treat conditions like stroke, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD.

Donor support fuels key priorities: advancing child health, research, and education; providing wrap-around support for families; improving access to care and decision-making tools; and enhancing emotional, mental, and physical healing for children. Funding also supports critical transport and care for severely ill or injured children, while extending pediatric emergency training to rural hospitals through in-person and virtual programs.

VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation (Vancouver, BC): This foundation supports Vancouver General Hospital, UBC Hospital, and other health care institutions across Vancouver Coastal Health. The foundation raises funds for life-saving research, cutting-edge technology, and specialized care for some of the most complex adult health conditions in British Columbia.

VGH and UBC Hospital are leaders in highly specialized areas including organ transplantation, spinal cord injury care, trauma services, cancer treatment, and neurosciences. The Foundation also supports the work of the Vancouver Prostate Centre and the Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, both globally recognized for research breakthroughs.

Current priorities include advancing surgical innovation, enhancing mental health and substance use treatment, accelerating cancer research, and expanding care for aging populations. Through donor support, the Foundation is investing in health innovation that improves outcomes, shortens recovery times, and transforms care across the province.

Hospital foundations in Canada are instrumental in:

• ● Funding Innovation: They finance cutting-edge research and the acquisition of advanced medical technologies.
• ● Enhancing Patient Care: Funds are allocated to improve patient services, comfort, and outcomes.
• ● Supporting Infrastructure: Foundations contribute to the construction and renovation of healthcare facilities.
• ● Community Engagement: They foster community involvement through fundraising events and awareness campaigns.

Hospital foundations are vital to the sustainability and advancement of Canada's healthcare system. Through their fundraising efforts and community engagement, they ensure that hospitals can continue to provide high-quality care and pursue innovative research for the betterment of all Canadians.

You can view more hospital foundations across the country by clicking here!

Cancer touches nearly every Canadian family—whether through a personal diagnosis, the journey of a loved one, or the lingering grief of a loss. It is a disease that knows no boundaries, and yet, across the country, people continue to fight back with compassion, courage, and community.

In Canada, nearly 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. The most commonly diagnosed cancers—breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate—account for a large share of these cases, but there are over 100 different types of cancer affecting individuals from every walk of life. The physical toll is immense. The emotional weight is heavier still.

That’s where cancer charities step in—not just as funders of research, but as lifelines for patients and families navigating some of life’s most difficult moments. These organizations offer hope where there’s fear, clarity where there’s confusion, and connection where there’s isolation.

Across Canada, dozens of cancer-focused charities are working to improve outcomes, speed up diagnosis, advance treatment, and support people emotionally and practically throughout their journey. Some focus on specific cancer types, while others serve broader populations. Their impact spans the entire spectrum, from early detection to survivorship, and from grief support to patient advocacy.

These charities provide a wide range of services: peer support groups, financial assistance, educational workshops, transportation to treatments, and direct funding for cutting-edge medical research. They also help families and patients connect with support groups, access one-on-one peer support, explore educational resources, and even find clinical trials that may open doors to life-saving treatments. Whether you are a newly diagnosed patient, a caregiver looking for guidance, or someone grieving and searching for community, there is a place for you within these networks.

The best part? You don’t have to be a scientist or a healthcare professional to make a difference. Every action counts. You can support these efforts by donating, volunteering your time, participating in awareness campaigns, or simply sharing resources with someone in need. Even something as simple as growing a moustache during Movember or walking in a local fundraiser helps fuel the larger mission.

To discover some of Canada’s most impactful cancer charities and find meaningful ways to give, visit:

Giving That Heals: Cancer Charities in Canada

Because healing doesn’t always happen in hospitals—it also happens in communities, in conversations, and in the quiet power of giving.

If you ever find yourself in Alberta searching for an exciting and enriching experience, consider spending a day (or night) at one of the province’s incredible museums. Whether you're drawn to history, science, art, or innovation, Alberta’s museums offer captivating exhibits and immersive experiences that cater to all interests. Thanks to the Alberta Museums Association (AMA), these cultural spaces remain vibrant and engaging for visitors of all ages.

The AMA plays a significant role in supporting and enhancing Alberta’s museums. Through advocacy, professional development, and collaborative initiatives, the association ensures that museums remain hubs of learning and inspiration. With their efforts, these institutions continue to grow and adapt, offering new and dynamic experiences to the public. So why not take advantage of Alberta’s incredible museum scene?

History, Art, and Innovation: 10 Alberta Museums You Can’t Miss

1. Alberta Aviation Museum Association – Step into the golden age of aviation at this fascinating museum, located in a historic World War II hangar in Edmonton. Home to more than 30 aircraft, the museum showcases Alberta’s deep-rooted connection to aviation history. Visitors can explore meticulously restored planes, interact with engaging exhibits, and even try their hand at a flight simulator. From vintage warplanes to bush planes that once served remote northern communities, this museum offers an in-depth look at how aviation shaped Alberta and beyond.

2. Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame – Celebrate the country’s sports heritage and legendary athletes through interactive displays. This museum also features The Spirit of Motion, an exhibit showcasing 43 original art pieces by Bill Brownridge, including 33 mono prints originally created for Calgary’s 1988 Olympic Winter Games bid. The exhibit, in partnership with the Bill Brownridge Family and the Calgary Tower, also includes artefacts and videos of Canadian athletes who medaled at the Games. Visitors can explore additional Olympic treasures through a digital interactive kiosk. The Spirit of Motion is free to visit at the base of the Calgary Tower until August 2025. Another compelling feature is the Indigenous Sport Heroes Education Experience - Digital Exhibit, which highlights the contributions of Indigenous athletes in Canadian sports history. The exhibit explores the deep connection between Indigenous communities and sports, showcasing how traditional games evolved into modern competitive athletics while promoting themes of perseverance, excellence, and reconciliation.

3. The Hangar Flight Museum – A must-visit for aviation and military history enthusiasts, this museum offers three fascinating collections. The Engine Collection showcases the rapid evolution of aviation engineering, featuring legendary engines like the Rolls-Royce Merlin 224, known as “The Engine that Won the War,” and the Avro Canada Orenda 10, one of the most powerful jet engines of its time. The Fu-Go Balloon Bomb exhibit tells the little-known story of Japanese balloon bombs sent across the Pacific during World War II, including fragments recovered in Canada. The WestJet 767 Cabin Crew Trainer provides a behind-the-scenes look at commercial aviation, allowing visitors to step inside a real training cabin complete with uniforms, safety gear, and service equipment used by WestJet’s flight attendants.

 

4. Devil’s Coulee Dinosaur & Heritage Museum – Step back in time and get hands-on with real dinosaur fossils at this one-of-a-kind museum. Visitors can take a guided tour, touch authentic fossils, and even participate in interactive activities like piecing together real dinosaur bones and reconstructing scattered skeletons. Try your luck in the extinction display, where you can share your own theory about what led to the demise of the dinosaurs. Kids will love the fossil scavenger hunt and digging in indoor sand bins like real paleontologists. If you want to bring home a unique souvenir, you can make or paint a plaster cast of a dinosaur claw, tooth, or footprint. After exploring the museum, take a break at the Heritage Garden, where you can see a vintage airplane, enjoy a picnic, or dig in an outdoor bone bed. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for exclusive items like hand-painted fossil casts, books signed by famous fossil hunter Wendy Sloboda, and one-of-a-kind geological treasures.

5. Leighton Art Centre – Nestled in the Foothills of Alberta, this hidden gem is both a museum and an art school. Originally the home of renowned artist Barbara Leighton, the centre now serves as a creative hub that celebrates Alberta’s artistic heritage. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing contemporary and historical art, take part in hands-on workshops, or simply enjoy the stunning views of rolling hills and open skies. The property itself is a work of art, featuring heritage buildings, sculptures, and outdoor trails that allow visitors to experience nature and creativity intertwined.

6. Royal Alberta Museum – As the largest museum in Western Canada, the Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) is a must-visit for anyone interested in Alberta’s natural and cultural history. With expansive exhibits covering everything from ancient fossils to Indigenous heritage, RAM offers an immersive look at Alberta’s past and present. Stand face-to-face with Ice Age mammals, explore Indigenous storytelling through artifacts and multimedia, or marvel at rare gems and minerals. The museum also features a dedicated children’s gallery, where younger visitors can engage in hands-on activities and interactive learning.

7. TELUS World of Science - Edmonton – A must-visit for science enthusiasts, featuring hands-on experiments, an IMAX theatre, and an observatory. Among its many engaging exhibits, visitors can explore the Indigenous Traditional Room, a space designed to celebrate Indigenous knowledge and traditions. The Nature Exchange encourages guests to learn about nature through interactive trading and discovery activities, while the Queen Elizabeth Planetarium (QEP) provides a fascinating look at the cosmos, blending history with modern space exploration.

8. Sunnybrook Farm Museum – Step into Alberta’s agricultural past at Sunnybrook Farm Museum, where visitors can experience life on a working farm from the early 20th century. Meet heritage livestock, watch blacksmith demonstrations, and even try your hand at traditional farming techniques. The museum’s collection includes vintage tractors, farming tools, and historical buildings that have been carefully preserved to offer a glimpse into Alberta’s rural heritage. Seasonal events, including harvest festivals and hands-on workshops, make this an engaging experience for the whole family.

9. Women’s Art Museum of Canada – This unique museum is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the artistic achievements of women in Canada. Through thought-provoking exhibits and multimedia installations, the museum highlights how women have shaped the Canadian art scene. The collection features works from emerging and established artists, spanning various styles and mediums. Special exhibitions often focus on themes of identity, empowerment, and cultural expression, making this museum an essential stop for anyone interested in the evolving role of women in the arts.

10. Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery – A cultural hotspot that seamlessly blends local history with contemporary art. The museum’s exhibits take visitors on a journey through Central Alberta’s past, showcasing Indigenous artifacts, early settler stories, and a rich collection of regional artworks. In addition to its permanent displays, the gallery hosts rotating exhibitions featuring Canadian artists, making each visit a new and exciting experience. Interactive programs, workshops, and community events further enrich the visitor experience, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Turn Your Visit into an Unforgettable Experience

While daytime visits are always engaging, many museums offer after-hours events that provide a fresh perspective on their exhibits. Whether it's an evening science showcase, a nighttime historical tour, or a special art exhibit, these experiences add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

Exploring Alberta’s museums is an excellent way to connect with history, culture, and innovation in an interactive and memorable way. Whether you’re a resident rediscovering local treasures or a visitor eager to experience something new, Alberta’s museums promise a journey filled with wonder and discovery. Thanks to the efforts of the Alberta Museums Association, these spaces continue to inspire and educate generations.

Next time you're in Alberta, plan a museum adventure—you never know what fascinating stories and experiences await! And if you're craving even more museum magic, explore what’s waiting in your own backyard by checking out the full list of exhibits in your province here!

March is finally here! As we welcome longer days, the promise of spring, and the fresh energy of a new season, it’s also a great time to recognize the important causes and initiatives that March represents. This month is packed with awareness campaigns that shine a light on crucial health, social, and scientific issues. Let’s take a moment to celebrate, support, and spread awareness for these vital causes.

March Awareness Initiatives & Organizations to Support

🌱 Easter Seals Month – Supporting individuals with disabilities through Easter Seals Canada, which provides essential services, mobility support, and advocacy.

💛 Endometriosis Awareness Month – Raising awareness about this painful condition affecting millions of women worldwide. The Endometriosis Network Canada offers support, education, and advocacy.

💜 Epilepsy Awareness Month – Highlighting the challenges faced by those with epilepsy and promoting research and support programs through Epilepsy Canada.

🩺 Kidney Month – Dedicated to kidney health and disease prevention, the Kidney Foundation of Canada works to improve the lives of those affected by kidney disease.

🧡 Liver Health Month – The Canadian Liver Foundation educates on liver disease prevention and supports those affected by liver-related illnesses.

💙 National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month – A crucial month for promoting early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer, championed by Colorectal Cancer Canada.

🤝 National Social Work Month – Honoring the dedication of social workers who play a vital role in supporting individuals and communities. The Association of Black Social Workers leads this recognition.

🚑 Red Cross Month – A time to celebrate the incredible work of the Canadian Red Cross, which provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and humanitarian aid worldwide.

🔬 Youth Science Festival Month – Encouraging innovation and curiosity in young minds, Youth Science Canada promotes STEM education and discovery through science fairs and competitions.

How You Can Get Involved

March isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action! Here are a few ways to make an impact:

• Donate to one of these organizations to help fund research, support programs, and advocacy efforts.
• Volunteer your time with local chapters or community initiatives.
• Educate yourself and others by sharing information on social media, attending awareness events, or participating in fundraising efforts.
• Show support by wearing awareness colors, attending campaigns, or spreading positivity to those affected by these issues.

As we step into March, let’s make it a month of impact. Whether you’re advocating for better healthcare, supporting individuals in need, or inspiring the next generation of scientists, your contribution matters. Let’s make this March one to remember!