Since 1993, the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation (formerly St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation) through the generous support of donors and volunteers, has been enhancing quality health care in our community.

The Foundation’s Board of Directors are pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Aldred as the new Executive Director. Jess has almost 20 years experience in the fundraising sector including serving as the CEO, Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation and Executive Director, Capilano University Foundation. She completed her Master of Public Administration at UVic and taught in Georgian College’s Fundraising Post Graduate Program. Most recently, Jess has been a local business owner and Board Member with the Rotary Club of Courtenay. Jess, her husband, daughter and their two dogs have lived in the Valley for 6 years.

The Board is delighted to have Jessica bring her extensive leadership in the charitable sector, as well as her passion for the Comox Valley, to the Executive Director role at the Foundation. Jessica will be assuming the role from Colt Long who has departed from the position. The Board wishes Colt success in his future endeavours and thanks him for his service over the past year.

Bill Anglin, President, speaking on behalf of the CVHF Board “The Board is dedicated to stewarding the Foundation in the best interest of our donors and is looking forward to collaborating with Jessica to raise funds in support of healthcare. Given her past roles and experience we are looking forward to her dynamic personality fostering our relationships with both our existing and new donors on whom we rely, to enhance healthcare options here in the Valley. Especially at this time, with the heightened awareness of the essential role of all aspects of healthcare plays in our community.”.

“I believe passionately in the importance of quality healthcare. I am excited to work with Island Health, St. Joseph’s and our community in raising funds for priority projects that serve the Comox Valley” stated Jess Aldred.

Since 2000 the Foundation has raised more than $14 million in equipment, renovations and patient comfort items. Donations from the public are funneled into much-needed medical equipment, technology and capital projects. In 2017, all acute care services (including new acute care equipment) moved from St. Joseph’s to the new Island Health Comox Valley Hospital, while St. Joseph’s will continue to provide excellence in residential care, hospice care and seniors’ health. The focus of Island Health and the Views at St. Joseph’s is to maintain the quality of care and delivery of services now and always.