One to One with Sarah Tarling

Sarah Tarling, Director of Corporate Partnerships - Western Region at Heart & Stroke, plays a pivotal role in fostering corporate relationships that enable the Foundation to drive its mission of reducing heart disease and stroke across Canada. Learn more about Sarah, her work, the power of partnerships, and the impact of the business community in supporting the Foundation’s life-saving efforts.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the non-profit sector, and how did you come to lead corporate partnerships at Heart & Stroke?

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be part of some truly inspiring non-profits here in Vancouver. From the very beginning, it was the heart behind the causes—the people, the passion, and the purpose—that drew me in and has kept me motivated for over 13 years.

My path to leading corporate partnerships at Heart & Stroke was shaped by a deep belief in the power of collaboration. I’ve always been fascinated by how mission-driven organizations and purpose-led businesses can come together to create real, lasting impact. At Heart & Stroke, I get to be at the intersection of those worlds. It’s work that challenges me, fulfills me, and keeps me hopeful for what’s possible when we work together.

What are the most pressing challenges that Heart & Stroke faces today, and how are you addressing them?

One of the most urgent challenges we face is the persistent gap in women’s heart and brain health. Despite heart disease and stroke being the leading cause of premature death for women in Canada, two-thirds of all related clinical research has historically focused on men. As a result, women are underdiagnosed, undertreated, and often unaware of their unique risk factors and symptoms.

At Heart & Stroke, we’re working to close this gap through a multi-pronged approach. We’re expanding research that’s specifically focused on women, advocating for more inclusive healthcare policies, and equipping healthcare professionals with the latest evidence on how cardiovascular disease presents differently in women. We’re also empowering women directly through education campaigns that help them recognize symptoms, understand their risks, and advocate for their own care.

This is more than a health issue, it’s a matter of equity. And it’s one we’re deeply committed to addressing through partnerships, innovation, and systemic change.

How do you see corporate partnerships enhancing the work of Heart & Stroke, and what role do they play in helping to advance the Foundation’s mission?

Corporate partnerships are no longer just about philanthropy, they’re about shared value. These collaborations help companies strengthen their ESG profile, show their employees and customers that they care about their personal well-being, and walk the talk when it comes to purpose. Whether it’s through employee engagement, co-branded campaigns, or wellness initiatives, we help organizations bring their values to life in a way that’s authentic, measurable, and inspiring.

What makes our work especially powerful is our national reach. When we fund important research and initiatives in our own backyard, the benefits often extend across the country. That means our partners are amplifying their impact; they’re contributing to systemic change that improves the lives of people in every corner of Canada.

At the end of the day, it’s about building partnerships that create real impact, internally and externally.

What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to lead in the non-profit sector?

Leadership in the non-profit sector requires a unique blend of heart and strategy. My advice is to lead with purpose but never lose sight of the need for operational excellence. Understand your mission deeply but also learn to speak the language of impact: data, outcomes, and partnerships. Build authentic relationships, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of collaboration. And most importantly, stay grounded in the communities you serve; they are your greatest teachers.

What do you think is the most rewarding part of your role in corporate partnerships?

The most rewarding part is seeing the tangible impact that strategic collaboration can create. When a corporate partner aligns their values with our mission, it becomes more than transactional—it becomes a shared journey toward meaningful change. I love being the bridge that connects business goals with community outcomes, and watching those partnerships evolve into long-term, purpose-driven relationships. Each organization is unique in how they want to do good, and I enjoy connecting the puzzle pieces.

What do you do when you aren't working?

Having been born and raised in the Greater Vancouver area, I’ve spent over 25+ years playing ice hockey. I’ve made lifelong friendships with my teammates for over a decade! These days, when I’m not working, you’ll find me soaking up the sunshine, exploring gems in my neighbourhood, or diving into a crafty project (I love anything that lets me work with my hands and creativity) with a good K-pop playlist.