In the Community

Double Your Impact at the 19th Annual Cause We Care Holiday Care Package Drive

November 26, 2025

We're proud to return as the Matching Champion for the 19th Annual Holiday Care Package Drive with Cause We Care Foundation. We will be matching all donations made between now and Drive Day on December 10th - up to $50,000, or 200 Care Packages. That means every dollar you give will go twice as far.

Each Care Package includes a new Herschel backpack filled with meaningful essentials and treats: a $100 Save-On-Foods grocery gift card, warm winter accessories, self-care items, and a heartfelt handwritten holiday message.

Together, let's gift a little happiness and let single mothers know they are seen and cared for this holiday season.

Capital Direct I Income Trust Named Outstanding Corporation Nominee

November 25, 2025

Capital Direct I Income Trust is honoured to be recognized at the 2025 Giving Hearts Awards, part of National Philanthropy Day. This annual celebration highlights organizations and individuals who strengthen our region through their generosity and service. Being nominated in the Outstanding Corporation category reflects our ongoing commitment to community support, philanthropy, and creating positive impact. We're grateful to stand alongside so many changemakers dedicated to making a difference.

Homes for the Holidays 20th Anniversary

November 14, 2025

We are proud to return as a Bronze Sponsor for Homes for the Holidays as the event marks its 20th anniversary. Our support of YWCA Metro Vancouver reflects our commitment to helping women and families thrive in our community. On November 15 and 16, 2025 the Cecil Green Park House at UBC will be filled with beautiful trees and décor created by talented designers and volunteers from around the city.

Proceeds help fund vital YWCA programs that provide housing, employment services, and family supports across Metro Vancouver. We are grateful to everyone who brings this celebration to life and we look forward to sharing the festive spirit together. We hope to see you there.

$3.2+ Million Raised for health care in BC at the VGH+ Capital Direct Vitality Gala

November 7, 2025

Thank you to everyone who joined us last Saturday, November 1, for the VGH+ Capital Direct Vitality Gala 2025. “No breakthrough happens alone” was the perfect phrase to describe the generosity of all those who attended, as we raised over $3.2 million for healthcare innovation in BC. We were happy to host everyone at the Vancouver Convention Centre and celebrate a wonderful a night of community and Connections, this year’s Gala theme.

The funds raised will support the Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) & University of British Columbia (UBC) Hospital Foundation’s mission to advance life-changing research, strengthen world-class care teams and accelerate treatments for the most complex cases in our province. Every gift moves crucial work forward at VGH, UBC Hospital, G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, and Vancouver Community Health Services, ensuring that patients benefit from leading research and care close to home.

More than 800 leaders from medical, corporate and philanthropic circles gathered for one special night that showcased what is possible when our community comes together. The shared purpose in the room was clear, this event does more than inspire. It delivers real impact for patients and families across BC, like it did for Chris Pennimpede.

After he was struck by a semi-truck while on his way to Tofino in 2022, Chris’s injuries were deemed too complex to be treated locally. It was decided that he was to be airlifted to VGH, where he would be treated with an innovative care technique pioneered by the doctors at the hospital. Through the treatment and care from VGH and the G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Chris made an incredible recovery. He shared his story at the gala and received a standing ovation from the entire room, inspiring everyone in attendance and demonstrating first-hand the impact that a night like this can have for our community.

As the evening’s Title Sponsor, our support builds on years of partnership with the Foundation and reflects our values as a company rooted in community. We believe in strengthening the places where we live and work. The Vitality Gala embodies these commitments by connecting generosity with tangible outcomes for health care in BC. Together, through the power of connections, we are helping build a future where transformative care and breakthrough research are within reach for every British Columbian.

Capital Direct Vitality Gala Opening Message

About CKNW Kids' Fund and Capital Direct's Generous Donations

November 22, 2024

For decades, the CKNW Kids' Fund has been a beacon of hope, helping children with physical, mental, and social challenges achieve their potential. Rooted in a tradition of community support and compassionate care, the fund empowers families by providing essential resources, programs, and services that make a difference in the lives of young people across British Columbia.

The impact of the CKNW Kids' Fund is amplified through partnerships with organizations like Capital Direct, a trusted financial solutions company committed to giving back to the community. Capital Direct’s contributions play a vital role in ensuring the fund’s initiatives continue to thrive. Their generous donations have helped finance critical programs, including:

• Specialized Equipment and Technology: Providing children with mobility aids, communication devices, and other tools to enhance their independence.
• Therapeutic Services: Supporting mental health initiatives and physical therapy programs tailored to meet individual needs.
• Community Enrichment Programs: Fostering inclusivity and growth through arts, sports, and educational activities.
• Capital Direct’s partnership reflects a shared vision of creating a brighter, more inclusive future for children in need. Their support ensures the CKNW Kids' Fund can reach even more families, delivering impactful solutions where they are needed most.

Together, the CKNW Kids' Fund and Capital Direct are building a legacy of hope, resilience, and opportunity—because every child deserves the chance to shine.

Catch Richard Nichols, President of Capital Direct, on the CKNW radio show as he shares his passion for giving back to the community. Hear firsthand how much Capital Direct values its partnership with the CKNW Kids' Fund and why their contributions are instrumental in ensuring the fund’s vital initiatives continue to thrive.

Tune In: Richard Nichols, President of Capital Direct, Shares Insights on Supporting the CKNW Kids' Fund

From funding specialized programs to creating opportunities for children in need, Capital Direct’s commitment to making a difference shines through. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the power of community, collaboration, and giving back.

For more information on the CKNW Kids' Fund and how to DONATE TODAY:
https://www.cknwkidsfund.com/what-is-cknw-kids-fund-adgrant?gad_source=1

 

Capital Direct I Income Trust is Championing Single Mothers Together

February 15, 2024

LOOK WHAT'S BEEN ACHIEVED WITH CAPITAL DIRECT'S SUPPORT!

As we start the year with excitement about initiatives and goals for 2024, we at the Cause We Care Foundation want to reflect and acknowledge Capital Direct who played a part last year in our mission to help single mothers achieve economic security and create positive futures for themselves and their children. You have inspired action through your ongoing donations to our Holiday Care Package Drive and our Single Mothers Support Fund, and we have been successful together in championing single mothers in our community.

HOLIDAY CARE PACKAGE DRIVE

On December 5th our volunteers and donors gathered at BC Place to assemble and deliver 1,200 care packages valued at over $250 each to 37 frontline organizations who provide ongoing services and resources directly to single mothers and their children. We are grateful for their valuable assistance in ensuring each Care Package reaches a family in need.

SINGLE MOTHERS
SUPPORT FUND

In 2023, Cause We Care expanded our reach and was able to support more single mothers than ever before. By the end of the year, we realized investment in the futures of 47 single mothers through our Single Mothers Support Fund (SMSF). With a total of $278,000 in grants, we effectively met the needs of single mothers pursuing education, and equipped them to provide stability for their families by supporting ongoing living expenses such as groceries, childcare, transportation and utilities. The SMSF supports women with diverse backgrounds and experiences, including survivors of domestic violence, new immigrants, refugees and widows. These women are pursuing a wide range of education and vocational training such as Environmental Engineering, Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Social Work, Education, Library Information and Human Resources.

One of our admirable recipients describes how the SMSF has made an impact in her life:

“I am so thankful to have had your organization's support. I honestly cannot imagine having to work more than I did to support my family while enduring an incredibly stressful practicum and final term. I am so grateful to have had that financial cushioning, as well as the silent hopes of the hundreds of donors contributing to CWC pushing me forward. Sometimes, when things were hard, I would imagine them all cheering for me. I ended up graduating second in my class of 432. I was also hired into a full-time position three weeks before I graduated. Please tell your donors that their cheers were heard and now they have something more to cheer about: a win! A little family of four off to a great re-start at life.” -Sophia*, Graduate of the Faculty of Education, SFU

Thank you to all of those who helped in making a difference and who continue to support Cause We Care as the most effective way to fund single mothers and their frontline organizations in the BC Lower Mainland. We are excited to see what we can do together in 2024!

Cause We Care Foundation
408 - 611 Alexander St
Vancouver, BC
Canada V6A1E1
[email protected]
www.causewecare.org

 

CAPITAL DIRECT'S IMPACTFUL PARTNERSHIP WITH CAUSE WE CARE: A SEASON OF GIVING

December 8, 2023

In the spirit of the holiday season, Capital Direct proudly stands as a beacon of generosity and community support. As a Diamond Level Corporate Champion of the Cause We Care Holiday Care Package Campaign, the company has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in our community.

The much-anticipated event took place on December 4th at the iconic BC Place Stadium, bringing together dedicated individuals and organizations determined to spread joy and support to those who need it most. Capital Direct took center stage by committing to match care package sales up to an impressive $35,000. This commitment, aimed at doubling the impact of donations, played a pivotal role in supporting a total of 400 care packages destined for single mother-led families across the Lower Mainland.

The incredible outcome of the Cause We Care Holiday Care Package Campaign was made possible through the generosity of Capital Direct and its dedication to making a difference. The matching donation initiative propelled the campaign to exceed its initial goal, ultimately funding a total of 1200 care packages.

Behind the scenes, the Capital Direct volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the efficient packing and delivery of these care packages. Their efforts did not go unnoticed, and Cause We Care extends its heartfelt appreciation for the invaluable contribution to the campaign's success.

What makes these care packages so impactful? They include backpacks filled with warm clothing, $100 grocery gift cards, small gifts, and nutritious food items. These thoughtful bundles aim to bring comfort and joy to vulnerable families, making the holiday season a little brighter for those facing challenging circumstances.

Capital Direct's long-standing support of Cause We Care shines as a testament to their commitment to community well-being. This partnership has not only provided tangible support to single mothers in need but has also fostered a sense of unity and compassion within the community.

As we approach the holiday season, we extend our warmest wishes to the team at Capital Direct. May your celebrations be filled with joy, surrounded by friends and family. We look forward to continuing this impactful collaboration in the New Year, striving to create positive change in the lives of those who need it most.

In closing, we express our deepest gratitude to Capital Direct for their enduring support of Cause We Care. Together, we have made a meaningful difference in the lives of single mothers, embodying the true spirit of the season. To learn more about this campaign and how to get involved visit www.causewecare.org

Happy holidays to all, and here's to a New Year filled with continued generosity and community impact!

CAPITAL DIRECT & CAUSE WE CARE FOUNDATION

December 14, 2022

Hi Richard, Barb and Eire,

I just wanted to reach out to thank you all so much for Capital Direct’s continued support of our Care Package Campaign this week! We were so happy to partner with you once again on this initiative and to meet our goal of delivering 1200 care packages to single mothers in need. You were such a huge part of the success of the campaign and we truly appreciate your generosity.

We were also so happy to welcome Eire and your Capital Direct colleagues as volunteers and guests at our Open House. I’ve attached a couple of pictures of your amazing team who worked so hard and with such heart.

Thank you again for everything and we hope you all have a wonderful holiday season with your friends and families!

Shannon

Shannon Newman-Bennett
Executive Director
Cause We Care Foundation
Vancouver, BC
www.causewecare.org

Raise a Reader

Capital Direct is proud to sponsor this annual fundraising event for literacy.

CanWest Raise-a-Reader is the culmination of a month-long media campaign aimed at raising awareness and interest in the importance of essential skills like reading and writing in Canadian society.

Raise-a-Reader Day is an annual event held by CanWest. During the 2006 Raise-a-Reader Day, thousands of volunteers across ten provinces raised $2,237,236 for literacy programs in Canada. 100% of the monies generated in the one day exchange of daily newspapers for donations, went towards literacy programs in each of the eighteen participating markets: Victoria, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Hamilton, Windsor, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax, Saint John, Moncton, Fredericton, Charlottetown and St. John's. The total is expected to grow as donations continue to come through the CanWest Raise-a-Reader website (www.raiseareader.com) and calls to the donation line at 1-866-637-READ.
(Source: raiseareader.com)

Run for Rescue

On April 28^th 2007, Capital Direct employees participated in the annual Run for Rescue organized by the Rotary Club of Vancouver Sunrise and Axis Insurance Managers.

The Run for Rescue event focuses on dual causes, one local and one internationally organized. The 2007 event raised funds for the The Emergency Service Details Team, which is a specially trained team of firefighters, paramedics and helicopter rescue technicians who completely volunteer their expertise forming a non-profit organization to carry out high-risk helicopter rescues throughout British Columbia. This non-profit organization's mission is to save lives and enhance public safety for all British Columbians.

The international cause is the African Village Project, which focuses on two small rural villages: Utha and Dixie. In previous years, this fundraising event has assisted in building two nursery schools, providing eyeglasses to the elderly and blankets to the needy. The 2007 pledges will further develop the two community centers, which focus on Adult education.