Board of Directors
St. Joseph's Foundation is seeking individuals interested in serving as volunteer Directors. This is a meaningful way to give back to our community and support the work of St. Joseph's Care Group.
To express interest, please email sandra.vellinga@tbh.net.
Ex Officio
Honourary Directors
Tom Beck
Sharron Owen
From a Courageous Act of Compassion
Founded in France in 1650, the Sisters of St. Joseph arrived in Thunder Bay in 1881, responding to the needs of a growing frontier community. What began as teaching and parish support quickly became hands-on care for the sick and injured, leading to the opening of St. Joseph's Hospital in 1884.
A Legacy of Compassion and Giving
Inspired by the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie, St. Joseph's Foundation of Thunder Bay was established in 1983 to carry forward a long tradition of community generosity and care. Building on earlier grassroots fundraising efforts that helped create St. Joseph's Heritage in the late 1970s, the Foundation formalized a shared commitment to ensuring compassionate, dignified care for generations to come. Today, thanks to the extraordinary support of donors, more than $28 million has been raised to advance this mission—strengthening healthcare and community services across our region and honouring the values that first brought the Sisters to serve those most in need.
How The Foundation Operates
Introduction
St. Joseph's Foundation of Thunder Bay (SJFTB) is committed to operating with transparency, integrity, and responsible stewardship. The policies and practices outlined below provide an overview of how the Foundation manages donations, invests funds, recognizes donors, and supports the work of St. Joseph's Care Group.
These summaries are intended to offer clarity and reassurance to donors, partners, and the community. Each reflects SJFTB's commitment to ethical fundraising, sound governance, and the thoughtful use of charitable resources in alignment with its mission and values.
If you would like a copy of any of these policies, please contact our office at sandra.vellinga@tbh.net.







