Vancouver Foundation

Grants at a Glance Here are a few of the projects Vancouver Foundation and our donors recently supported Children of the Street The Youth Engagement Art Project will involve at-risk youth in creating an art event to raise awareness about sexual exploitation. At the same time, the project will foster youth leadership and voice among participants. The type of creative project undertaken will be chosen by the youth themselves. It might be a skit, mini-play, visual art piece, written work or social media campaign. Over eight weeks, youth will have the chance to develop and focus on critical thinking, leadership, empathy, social responsibility and youth voice, while participating in a safe learning environment. The process will culminate in a final art exhibition event to share the project with the larger community. Vancouver Foundation's Youth Philanthropy Council provided a grant of $5,000 for the project. From survivor to supporter to success Victoria Brain Injury Society Peer support is vital for people who are dealing with the devastating effects of brain injury. At the Victoria Brain Injury Society, a peer support worker is available Monday to Thursday. This volunteer, who has experienced a brain injury, is trained to support new members and facilitate group conversations. The worker also passes on useful coping techniques, shares experiences with other brain injury survivors and their families, and refers survivors to other community resources. "Survivor, Supporter, Success!" is a program that will teach brain injury survivors how to mentor and support their peers. This mutually beneficial program will not only provide recent survivors with mentors to help support their recovery; it will enhance the capacity, skills and self-confidence of existing workers, and can be a stepping stone to paid employment. Vancouver Foundation awarded a grant of $10,000 for the project. Photos: iStockphoto, Turtle Valley Donkey Refuge Society (Sassy) p4-5_GAAG.indd 4 6/6/12 10:51:14 AM

• Cover