We have been progressing on developing plans for our new Centre. As we draw closer to completion of these steps, we are now moving to a final estimate of costs before going out to tender.  Over the last two years (and in some cases even earlier), we have developed a number of different versions that reflect changing build requirements, health care specifications and requirements from the Town.

We have developed a number of budgets based on our plans, many increasing as we see the cost of labour and supplies rise and based on adjustments with what and how we are building. Budgetary reviews demonstrate our leadership on fiscal responsibility, and have not always been negative in their focus. For example, one budget adjustment at the start of this year provided an opportunity to validate and improve the future functionality of the space. As we near the end of the planning phase, we are eager to finalize contracts and begin work.

Our Centre for Palliative Care and Hospice will be there to support everyone in the Bow Valley community. Whether it is following a diagnosis of a life-changing illness for you or your loved one, navigating the journey to end of life or experiencing grief and bereavement, we will be there to support us all. The need is urgent, ongoing and real – we are eager to get rolling on building our new space.

Our celebration event on June 22^nd, was a great opportunity to talk to some of you individually as well as the larger group. For many, it was the first time that you saw the latest renderings of the inside and outside of our new Centre and provided the opportunity to speak to how the space will be used by all who use it. The Centre will support all of our community including those who have a life changing diagnosis, families, friends and loved ones supporting them on this journey, and those of us experiencing grief and bereavement. Our philosophy of recognizing each person and their needs as unique has been embraced in the design of the space, where we have sought to develop a place that is welcoming and safe for all.

Careful thought has been given to the different stages of life and wellness that each person will be facing. Consideration in design has been given to ensure that it welcomes people from all cultures and beliefs and, as a charity, accessible to all.  The connection to the environment and the surrounding beauty where we live is embraced in every room encompassing the changing seasons of nature and life itself.  Each space will have a unique view, optimized through the placing of furniture including the ‘cuddle beds’, extra width beds that provide space for people to be together as they enjoy the views.

While the planning for our space has tried to consider future needs and uses, we also appreciate that the growing needs in the community may change over time. While we have initially planned for 8 resident rooms, building planning has also given thought as to how space can be added for when needed.

As we continue to fundraise for our Centre, funds already raised towards the building are being invested to be used towards the building. These funds are viewed as restricted, only to be used towards the purpose for what they were given. Some expenses are being incurred currently for architects and building planning, but the majority is invested to meet the bulk of the construction cost in the future.

Thank you to everyone for your support through these challenging times and for your commitment to make this Vision a reality. We could not do it without you!

As we are learning, patience really is a virtue! Approval from the Town of Canmore for the subdivision is inching closer every day but with this time, so comes growing costs, shortening windows to break ground, and urgency of growing demand in the community. We know that everyone is working hard to get this project moving forward and very much appreciate all their efforts.

The team at PCSBV, METAFOR and CANA all continue to work on finalizing plans and documentation, exploring ways to manage and contain costs both during the build and the facility operations when they are up and running.  Our goal for beginning construction remains September 2025 and, assuming all of the necessary permits and financing in place, we are on track to meet this.

Meanwhile, work outside the construction project is examining the various sources of revenue that can create long-term sustainable operations. This includes expanding the ways that donors from the community can give, government funding and social enterprises that align with interests of the organization and can generate a new form of income. The fluidity of changes in the Alberta health system provide both a challenge and an opportunity for us. Working with other stand-alone hospices in the province, we continue to have fruitful conversations with decision makers in political and administrative roles.

To ensure that we are ready to begin construction, we continue to focus on raising funds to be able to start this work quickly and thank all of you who continue to commit to this incredible vision. If you would like to find out more about how you can donate and be part of this exciting vision, contact us.