Sandra Richardson is an innovative community leader who effectively uses her skills to create relevant and successful programs that respond to community needs.

Under Sandra’s leadership, the funds managed by the Victoria Foundation have grown from $20 million to over $270 million in 15 years. This widespread growth in community giving is largely due to her outreach to the community in identifying worthy causes.

Among Sandra’s initiatives are the annual Victoria’s Vital Signs report which identifies areas of need and measures key issue areas affecting the Capital region’s quality of life. Other examples are the Every Steps Count running/walking program and the Smart and Caring Physical Literacy program, launched in Victoria by the Governor General. Many of her programs have been replicated and successfully implemented across British Columbia, Canada and beyond. The Victoria Foundation is also involved in projects building relations and capacity within First Nations communities.

Sandra is a change-maker, a supporter of people, ideas and action. She does this quietly, using every opportunity to redirect the spotlight onto others.

She frequently advises non-profits on governance issues, recognizing that good governance is correlated to their impact. She is regularly sought as a valued participant or leader for other community initiatives.