YWCA Impact Series: A Stronger Home

On February 5, join us to hear from former MLA and Minister of State for Child Care Katrina Chen as she speaks about her upcoming book, A Stronger Home. Katrina's book, which will be released in May, helps explain family violence to young readers. You’ll also hear about the impacts of YWCA Housing from Mahsa, who lives in YWCA Housing with her children, and Lisa Rupert, VP of Housing and Violence Prevention.  

This event will also feature an incredible opportunity to recognize two extraordinary members of the community, Andrea Thomas Hill and Sandy So, with the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal for making a significant contribution to British Columbia. 

The Coronation Medals ceremony will highlight the remarkable contributions of these women, who have helped improve the lives of countless families in Metro Vancouver. 

Andrea Thomas Hill: As founder of the Cause We Care Foundation, Andrea has championed single mothers living on low incomes since 2007. Her foundation has committed millions to building housing, funding programs and delivering care packages to support single mothers and their children, creating a lasting impact in the community. In 2011, the Foundation committed $1.5 million to help build YWCA Cause We Care House, a beautiful building above the nə́c̓aʔmat ct Strathcona library that features 21 affordable homes for women and their families.  

Sandy So: For 30 years, Sandy has exemplified leadership in philanthropy and volunteerism, personally donating millions and raising millions more for critical causes, including affordable housing, healthcare and childhood cancer research. A single mother herself, Sandy’s $1.5M donation to the YWCA helped build affordable homes for single mother-led families, including YWCA Sandy So Vista, located in a vibrant community in East Vancouver. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as AFP Outstanding Legacy Philanthropist.