Congratulations to the Ritchie family for winning the Spirit of Generosity Award at this year’s AFP Vancouver Giving Hearts Awards. Dave and Tammy Ritchie make a fantastic father-and-daughter team driven by a shared passion for helping others. Their journey into philanthropy began more than 25 years ago and their legacy continues to make a profound impact on the community.
About the Ritchie Family
Dave’s challenging upbringing in a farming and orchard town in the Okanagan instilled in him a deep understanding of the importance of good health and a mission to assist those in need. Passing on these valuable life lessons, Dave raised his children to appreciate the hardships of life and emphasized the significance of giving back while staying humble.
Tammy and Dave are proud supporters of many organizations across our province, including Surrey Hospitals Foundation, VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, BC Cancer Foundation, Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, Peace Arch Hospice Society, Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon, KidSport Surrey / White Rock, Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria and KGH Foundation. Their incredible contributions are estimated to be over $20 million.
“Giving back to our community, through volunteering or donating, is so important to us. You often give to what relates to you personally, but when you learn about impact, it really hits home. Equipment for a hospital; research dollars for scientists; funds to keep kids in sports… it all matters, regardless of the size of the donation.”
The Ritchie family provided Surrey Memorial Hospital with a cutting-edge magnification microscope, a North American first, benefiting breast cancer patients with lymphedema. They also acquired the region’s first and only tomosynthesis machine – a 3D mammography unit enhancing cancer detection.
The Ritchies’ spirit of giving shines as a beacon of hope, catalyzing positive changes in the community. Their incredible generosity has touched and transformed numerous lives. Thank you to the Ritchie family for being an inspiration to us all. We also extend our congratulations to all other Giving Hearts Awards winners and nominees. Thank you to the Association of Fundraising Professionals for honouring these achievements. Together, we are an unstoppable force in building a better and brighter future.