Mission and Vision
From rescue to recovery, fire fighters have answered the call to support burn survivors across BC and the Yukon since 1978. The Burn Fund is dedicated to assisting burn survivors throughout their recovery every step of the way.
Vision: Every burn survivor in BC and the Yukon is empowered to thrive.
Mission: Transforming the lives of burn survivors through meaningful connections, supportive programs, and enhanced care.
- Empowering survivors through programs and retreats.
- Offering accommodations to burn survivors and their families.
- Enhancing medical care at BC’s trauma hospitals.
- Filling the gap with vital resources and treatment.
Burn Fund History
The Burn Fund was founded by a dedicated group of fire fighters who wanted to help burn survivors beyond the emergency call.
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1978
Burn Fund is Founded
The Burn Fund is founded by Coquitlam fire fighter Captain Alex Blake and VGH Doctor Charles Snelling.
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1994
Burn Camp
The first-ever summer camp for young burn survivors takes place in Squamish.
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1997
$1 Million to VGH
The Burn Fund commits $1 million to establish a new burn unit.
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1998
Bright Nights
The first Bright Nights in Stanley Park welcomes the public.
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2003
Hometown Heroes
The lottery is created in partnership with VGH to raise much-needed funds.
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2007
New Survivor Program
A new program is created to connect adult burn survivors and support healing.
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2011
Too Hot For Tots
The program aims to educate caregivers about burn prevention in toddlers.
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2016
Burn Fund Centre
The Home Away Program welcomes its first guests to the Centre in May.
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2016
Thrive Retreat
The first Thrive retreat welcomes 10 young adult burn survivors to Big White.
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2019
Little Lionhearts
The first family retreat welcomes 6 families to Squamish for a weekend of healing.
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2022
BC Children’s Hospital
The Burn Fund commits $1 million to transform child-centred burn care.
Meet Our Team
United by mission
The Burn Fund is a powerful collective united by the same mission. From our staff team to the dedicated Board of Directors and volunteers across the Province. Together, we are united in supporting burn survivors through their healing journey and beyond.
Learn more
Fire Fighters
The Burn Fund was established in 1978 as the charitable extension of the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association. Today, more than 4,300 professional fire fighters in 55 communities in BC and the Yukon dedicate their time and skills to the Burn Fund:
- Serve as Burn Fund Reps, board and committee members.
- Volunteer as Camp Counsellor at camps and retreats.
- Host their own Local fundraisers for the Burn Fund.
- Promote prevention through seasonal campaigns.