This week, the US-based Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) presented the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) with a cheque for $25,000 USD ($34,800 CAD) during its annual Convening Leaders congress, held for the first time in Vancouver. It represents the second time in less than six months that the BCHF was handpicked for a significant donation from an organization outside the province. In September 2015, the Canadian Resort Development Association presented the Foundation with $15,000 during its annual Canadian Resort Conference.

“The support from such an influential international organization speaks to the credibility of the BCHF,” notes Foundation executive director, Alan Sacks. “The low value of the Canadian Dollar was very favourable in this case and had a major effect on the value of support we received.”

The donation to this uniquely Canadian charity couldn’t come at a better time. “We are projecting a higher demand for support than ever before, and we need to sharply increase our revenue in order to meet the demand of hospitality workers in need,” said Sacks. “Applications for beneficiary support and for our scholarship program are stronger than ever, with no signs of slowing down.”

The BCHF reached a major milestone in late 2015, supporting its 100th beneficiary, who faced a financial crisis due to a medical condition. Since 2006, the BC Hospitality Foundation has supported 107 workers with nearly $480,000 in financial aid and provided $150,000 in scholarships to almost 115 students in hospitality, culinary and beverage programs.

Sacks concludes, “It is important to note that the Foundation was selected from a list of Vancouver-based charities because the PCMA recognizes the importance of the help we provide to people in our industry. The relationship that we have with other organizations such as Tourism Vancouver and the Vancouver Convention Centre was also key to being selected, and for that we are grateful.”