The Tom Harris Community Foundation (THCF) has donated more than $200,000 this year to charities advancing healthcare, youth development, and food security across central Vancouver Island.
Each year, THCF identifies Charities of Choice, organizations selected for their proven impact and alignment with the Foundation’s mission. This approach, highlighted during the annual Tom Harris Charity Classic, ensures that donors, sponsors, and community partners can see exactly where their support is making a difference.
Strengthening Healthcare
Healthcare remains a linchpin of THCF’s giving. In 2025, the Foundation contributed $100,000 to the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation in support of its Spect CT Campaign, funding advanced diagnostic imaging equipment. An additional $10,000 was directed to Butterfly Run Canada, which provides support to families navigating pregnancy and infant loss.
Supporting Youth Development
THCF continues to invest in programs that empower local youth. This year, Nanaimo Youth Services Association received $10,000 to strengthen programs for at-risk youth. The Foundation also donated $10,000 to KidSport BC to help remove financial barriers for children in sports, and an additional $5,000 to the KidSport Dirt Cup Tournament. The Nanaimo Yacht Club Sailing School received $5,000 to expand opportunities for young sailors.
Advancing Food Security
Recognizing the growing need for accessible nutrition, THCF directed $10,000 to the Nanaimo Ladysmith Schools Foundation’s (NLSF) Food4Schools program, ensuring local students have access to healthy meals. Another $5,000 was contributed to the Marathon of Hope initiative, also run by NLSF, which fosters student participation in fundraising for cancer research.
Community Events and Local Causes
Beyond direct donations, THCF also supports community-building events. In 2025, the Foundation provided $15,000 to sponsor the Kids Zone at the Nanaimo Bathtub Society’s Bathtub Days, ensuring a free and family-friendly space during the city’s iconic summer festival. The Tom Harris Fund for Families was bolstered with $25,000, providing flexible support to families facing urgent challenges.
Upcoming Sponsorships
In addition to past contributions, THCF will play a major role in upcoming fall events. The Foundation is a major sponsor of the Terry Fox Run on September 25th, supporting a three-day relay starting on from Ladysmith to Nanaimo. We will have a tent on-site at Beban Park and the Food4Schools van will also be on-site. THCF will also return as presenting sponsor of the Butterfly Run at Westwood Lake on October 4, continuing its support for grieving parents and families.
Continuing the Commitment
“Each of these charities reflects the values our Foundation was built on,” said Tony Harris, Founder and Chair of THCF. “By focusing on healthcare, youth, and food security, we’re investing in areas that touch every family in our community.”
A second installment of Charities of Choice will be published later this year, highlighting additional organizations supported by THCF in 2025.
Thank you to our sponsors for making this possible. Your generosity fuels every contribution we make to healthcare, youth, and food security.