2 Events Coming Up Quickly + Ever Wonder How the Foundation Decides Which Hospital Projects to Fund?
Published Monday, March 30, 2026
Message from Dr. Stephen Adams
Chair, Board of Directors, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation
I don't know about you, but I'm enjoying the warmer weather out there lately. Here at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation, that means our spring and summer events are just around the corner!
First on Thursday, April 16 there is Bullseye Chase the Case presented by Doane Grant Thornton. A cross between “Deal or No Deal” and Netflix's new “What's in the Box”, Bullseye Chase the Case features a live auction of 20 silver cases containing 20 different prize packages, all worth about $1,000 each. Plus, there's a special Golden Case and other games like the Bling Blitz as well as a delicious four-course dinner. Don't wait, get your tickets here: healthsciencesfoundation.ca/case
On Saturday, June 20, the Tbaytel Motorcycle Ride for Dad takes to the road again. It's one of the Foundation's oldest events, starting back in 2001. The annual BBQ and sign-up event takes place on Saturday, May 23 at Gradner's Garage in Westfort – and it's almost as popular as the event itself! See more info: ridefordadtbay.ca
Your support of great events like these funds many programs and services at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. However, deciding which projects get funding can be a challenging process. Here's how we do it:
The Health Sciences Foundation has a Grants Committee, which reviews project applications from various Hospital departments. The committee which includes Foundation board members, physicians, community members and donors, brings a wide-range of perspectives on Hospital and community needs.
The committee follows strict guidelines when reviewing the applications. Not every project can be funded, so committee members use a scoring matrix to help determine each project's impact on patient care. The primary goal is to ensure the biggest impact on patient care – which in turn means we are maximizing the value of your kind donations. The Grants Committee tries to ensure that grants reflect support for all areas of the Hospital, and there is special emphasis put on closer-to-home care.
No project is too big or too small from IV pumps to massive MRIs. For example, during the Foundation's annual grant announcement in November 2025, projects ranged from $5,000 to $3 million. The committee reviews applications individually first, and then everyone comes together to discuss.
Once the Grants Committee agrees on their selections, and the Finance & Audit determines the budget, there is one last major step: Board approval. The Foundation Board of Directors reviews all grant recommendations as another layer of diligence and transparency. If and when those recommendations are ratified, the Board of Directors notifies the successful applicants who can then move ahead with their projects including ordering equipment.
And there you have it. It's a long, thorough process that can take months to complete. It has to be. We take our role as stewards of your donation seriously, and we do everything we can to ensure your kind gifts are put to best use.
Thank you to everyone who supports the Foundation through donations, event participation, and Thunder Bay 50/50 tickets. With your help, everything is possible!
Happy Spring!
Dr. Stephen Adams