Friends of Vanier

Friends of Vanier

Vanier opened its doors in 1963 as a residential treatment centre for emotionally disturbed children, thanks to the commitment and vision of several organizations.

The Children's Aid Society of London and Middlesex and the Catholic Social Services with Mrs. Joan Smith as the Chairman, championed the need. The May Court Club of London pledged $50,000 for initial operating funds.

Other founding funders include the Ontario Ministry of Community & Social Services and the United Way of London & Middlesex.

Our Friends

Vanier is fortunate to maintain our founding friendships and continue to foster many new partnerships:

May Court Club is dedicated to the nurturing of the well-being of the children of our community who are in need of social, educational, physical or emotional support.

RBC Foundation is committed to making a lasting social impact through inspired, responsible giving and by building strong partnerships.

Public Safety Canada  is the department of the government of Canada with responsibility for protecting Canadians and helping to maintain a peaceful and safe society.

Roots and Wings Awards

It has been said that the two most important things we can offer our children are roots to grow and wings to fly. With this theme in mind, we created the annual Vanier Roots and Wings Celebration.

Roots awards honor one of our founding leaders for their contribution to helping children at Vanier and in our community.

Wings awards honor a young adult who has achieved a positive outcome in his or her life as a result of their personal courage and participation in a Vanier service.

Root Recipients

2010 - Dr. Barrie Evans

2009 - Susan Hollyman

2008 - Leonard Macdougall
2007 - Mary Heisz
2006 - Antin Jaremchuk
2005 - Carol Jean Johnston
2004 - Dr. William Avison
2003 - Dr. John R. Dubois
2002 - Joan Smith, Dr. Ben Goldberg, The May Court Club of London

Wings Recipients

2009 - Anthony D. Villeneuve

2008 - Jamie Shields
2007 - Lianne Boyd
2006 - Jason Harris
2005 - Richard Wood
2004 - Christine Trachy
2003 - Ronni-Lyn Ford
2002 - David Dunseith