Rix Awards raises funds to support mental health

Apr. 9, 2021

VANCOUVER, B.C. —The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of our lives. Since the start of the pandemic, the business community has worked tirelessly to adapt while supporting workers, families and the broader community. Despite the business challenges faced, we know there is no better investment than supporting and nurturing positive mental health in our workplace and community.

The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade is proud to announce that, thanks to the business community's generous support, the Governors’ Gala and Rix Awards raised nearly $160,000 to support mental health initiatives. Funds raised will be provided to Coast Mental Health Foundation. 

The event paid tribute to Joe Segal, who was awarded the prestigious Rix Award for Engaged Community Citizenship in recognition of his many philanthropic endeavours and decades of community service.

The Board of Trade presented its Rix Award for Engaged Corporate Citizenship to CN, recognizing the company as a backbone of the Canadian economy and in acknowledgement of its strong customer focus, engagement with communities and environmental initiatives.

In addition, two individuals were inducted to the Council of Governors’ were Lori Mathison, LL.B, FCPA, FCGA, who currently serves as President and CEO of Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC), and Kari Yuers, President and CEO of Kryton International Inc.

We encourage you to reach out to your friends, family, co-workers, anyone you think might be struggling or in need of company. If you are able donations are still being accepted at https://www.coastmentalhealth.com/gvbot/ All proceeds go towards supporting the work of the Coast Mental Health Foundation.

Quotes:

“The Governor’s Gala and Rix Awards are always a landmark event for the business community and even though we couldn’t be together in person, this year was no exception. Each of the honourees is exemplary and truly represents the best of our community. This year has been difficult for many businesses, but also for individuals who have dealt with isolation, change, and lack of access to normal supports and social interaction. We are particularly proud of the generosity demonstrated by our community in the meaningful contributions to Coast Mental Health Foundation, which will help those most in need during these challenging times.” – Gala Co-Chairs, Lorne R. Segal and Brent Cameron

“Time and again, the community has shown their dedication to support those in need. There is no more fitting way to honour the impact and legacy of our distinguished honourees than with the generous contributions of our members to support Coast Mental Health Foundation.” – Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade 

"We're so grateful to have been part of such an incredible evening, and to the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade's members for their phenomenal generosity. For many people with chronic mental illnesses, the last year has been devastating. Isolation, change in routine, less access to crucial resources like affordable food, and lack of social interaction, can lead to major set-backs – in some cases, years' worth of work has been lost. The funds raised will provide critical services for people living with a mental illness right here in BC at a time where they are in such great need. This simply wouldn't be possible without the support of extraordinary community leaders like Joe Segal, the Segal family, and all those who donated. Thank you so much!"– Isabela Zabava, Executive Director, Coast Mental Health Foundation

-ENDS-

About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada's leading business association, engaging members to impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Signature Programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events programs in the country, providing a platform for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

David van Hemmen
Director, Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com