The Garth Homer Foundation is a charitable foundation incorporated in 1998 under the Society Act of British Columbia. Based in Victoria, it exists to provide financial support that helps adults with developmental and other disabilities build a life, a home, and a meaningful place in the world. The Foundation works primarily alongside the Garth Homer Society, directing donor contributions to initiatives that create greater inclusion, independence and belonging for people with diverse abilities.
Role of the Garth Homer Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The Foundation focuses on raising and distributing funds for program development, residential options and community spaces. A major part of its role is to own and support the Garth Homer Centre, a large facility that has housed day services and programs since 1977. Through capital investments such as roof replacement and long‑term ground leases, the Foundation helps ensure the Centre and related infrastructure remain available to serve people with disabilities in the Capital Regional District.
Beyond facility upgrades, the Foundation supports community inclusion activities, arts and cultural workshops, volunteer and supported employment initiatives, and residential projects that allow people to age in place. Its funding also contributes to new program and community space within broader redevelopment efforts such as the Nigel Valley Master Plan, a multi‑partner “campus of care” in Saanich.
Funding themes and types of support
- Capital projects and facilities: investments in the Garth Homer Centre and related buildings, including redevelopment into a larger, modern multi‑storey facility with program, residential, public and social enterprise spaces.
- Program and service support: financial backing for day programs, arts workshops, technology‑enabled learning, and occupational activities delivered by the Garth Homer Society.
- Residential and community living: support for housing concepts such as community residences and aging‑in‑place homes that respond to the needs of adults with developmental disabilities and their families.
Donor engagement and matching funds
The Foundation mobilizes individuals, families and community partners through donations, legacy gifts and in‑memoriam contributions. Campaigns may include matching initiatives, such as matching donations up to a stated amount to accelerate funding for capital projects like the Belonging Project and other priorities. Impact stories highlight how philanthropic support translates into tangible improvements in buildings, equipment and daily life experiences for clients.
Publics served and overall impact
While the primary delivery of services is through the Garth Homer Society, the Foundation plays a distinct funding role that enables long‑term planning and transformational change. Its support helps maintain purpose‑built spaces, create inclusive community hubs and expand opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in education, work, arts and social life. By stewarding charitable resources and real estate assets, the Garth Homer Foundation contributes significantly to the regional ecosystem of disability services and inclusive community development.