Vancouver Chinatown Foundation raises C$2.6M at 10th annual gala

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 01, 2026

Photo courtesy: Fred Lee

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The Vancouver Chinatown Foundation raised approximately C$2.6 million at its 10th annual Autumn Gala, bringing together business leaders, philanthropists and public officials to support affordable housing, local businesses and cultural preservation in the historic neighbourhood.

Held Thursday, October 29, at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, the sold-out fundraiser drew more than 800 guests for an evening celebrating the foundation’s work and its plans for Chinatown’s revitalization.

The event, presented by RBC, was led by Vancouver Chinatown Foundation chair Carol Lee, with Fred Lee and Sophie Lui serving as hosts.

Among the guests were British Columbia premier-elect Lorne Doerkson and Vancouver mayor-elect Pete Fry, both attending following their victories in the October provincial and municipal elections.

The foundation initially raised more than C$2.55 million during the evening and subsequently reported a total of approximately C$2.6 million, with fundraising still ongoing.

Major donation supports fundraising effort

A C$500,000 contribution from Claire and John Nicola helped drive the evening’s fundraising, according to an account shared by event host Fred Lee.

The gift was announced during the paddle raise, when guests were invited to make donations toward the foundation’s work.

Organized with event producer Soha Lavin of CountDown Events, the gala featured a gold-themed ballroom, entertainment, live fundraising activities and stories about the community’s development.

The celebration also marked a decade of the annual fundraiser, which has become an important gathering for supporters of Vancouver’s Chinatown.

Beyond the donations, the event provided an opportunity to recognize the individuals, businesses and organizations contributing to the neighbourhood’s preservation and renewal.

A decade of investment in Chinatown

The funds will support the foundation’s ongoing efforts to improve housing, strengthen local businesses and preserve Chinatown’s cultural heritage.

Established in 2011, the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation has focused on addressing the neighbourhood’s physical, economic and cultural needs through partnerships with government, businesses and community organizations.

Its projects have helped create 351 affordable homes through Bob & Michael’s Place and the May Wah Hotel.

The organization has also supported more than 100 businesses through the Chinatown Impact Fund, which assists shops with physical improvements, marketing and other initiatives.

On the cultural side, the foundation has collected more than 10,000 historical artifacts and documents connected to Chinatown’s history.

Its annual Light Up Chinatown! festival welcomed approximately 26,000 visitors in 2026, reflecting continued efforts to attract people to the neighbourhood and support its businesses.

Building support for Chinatown’s future

The anniversary gala also recognized the City Builders Endowment Fund, led by the Jack & Darlene Poole Foundation, as part of efforts to secure long-term support for housing, cultural preservation and economic revitalization.

For Carol Lee and the foundation, the event brought together supporters whose contributions help sustain projects beyond the annual celebration.

The C$2.6 million raised adds to that work, supporting programs intended to preserve Chinatown’s historic character while addressing the needs of residents and local businesses.