Victoria, B.C., March 10, 2012 – Cancer research and care on Vancouver Island received a support boost from a local housing and business development today with Mariner’s Village donating $120,000 to the BC Cancer Foundation.
Mike Barrie, a former NHL player and partner and developer of the Sooke waterfront project, Mariner’s Village, shared how he’s been inspired to support scientists at BC Cancer – Victoria after a behind-the-scenes tour of their research facility.
“I was totally stunned after touring the BC Cancer Agency,” Barrie commented at today’s community open house celebration. “I had no idea that this level of research was happening here on Vancouver Island, and that so many breakthroughs have had a direct impact on cancer treatment for patients. It was completely unexpected and exciting.”
Motivated by leading edge research taking place in Victoria, Barrie and his Mariner’s Village partners had a brainwave. They decided that the best way they could help make a difference in the lives of cancer patients in their community would be to donate a portion of sales from every residential unit sold to the BC Cancer Foundation. The development plans to have up to 370 oceanfront condos and townhouses as part of the largest construction project in Sooke history with a vision including business, office and green space along with an expanded marina.
“Today, we are thrilled to provide $120,000 and pledge to grow our contribution as we embark on phase two of our development,” says Barrie. “Amongst our group, we’ve all lost loved ones to cancer and felt that this was a unique way for developers to give back.”
Dr. Brad Nelson, senior scientist at BC Cancer – Victoria, and his colleagues are humbled by the generous donation, which will help support world-class cancer discoveries in Victoria.
President and CEO of BC Cancer Foundation Douglas Nelson says, “Mike Barrie and his Mariner’s Village partners have made a significant contribution to research and the future improvement of cancer treatment and outcomes for patients here on Vancouver Island. They are true philanthropic leaders.”
Barrie encourages fellow developers to consider this philanthropic model as a way to give back and invest in the health of their community.
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For more information or to arrange an interview please contact:
Allison Colina
Communications Specialist
e. allison.colina@bccancer.bc.ca
