At the end of last month, Granville Island’s Performance Works was transformed into a red-carpet affair for Passions 2024, one of Vancouver’s most anticipated culinary fundraiser events. Presented by RBC, the evening brought together some of the city’s top chefs, food enthusiasts, and generous supporters to raise funds for the Dr. Peter Centre‘s vital Food and Nutrition Program.
This year’s theme, Red Carpet, set the stage for an evening filled with glamour and indulgence. Over 20 of Vancouver’s finest restaurants, suppliers, and culinary artisans participated, showcasing a dazzling array of dishes, wines, and cocktails. Michelin-starred venues, local favourites, and hidden gems alike contributed to the unforgettable culinary experience.
Participating restaurants and suppliers included The Acorn, Anh and Chi, Copperpenny Distilling Co, Dang Good Ice, Holts Cafe, Lila, Phantom Creek, Sea Cider, and Wildlight Kitchen + Bar.
A Night of Generosity and Joy
Amelie Thuy Nguyen, chair of the 2024 Passions Committee, described the event as a heartfelt celebration of community health. “The food program at the Dr. Peter Centre isn’t merely about sustenance; it’s the cornerstone of the comprehensive care that the Centre provides. With every meal, the team reaffirms their commitment to the cause, sharing with many their first experience of stability and community in years,” she shared.
The impact of the Dr. Peter Centre’s work was at the forefront of the evening. From providing hot meals to fostering a sense of belonging, the Centre continues to transform lives through care and compassion. “That first stable day leads to a stable week and, ultimately, to a more stable life,” said Scott Elliott, CEO of the Dr. Peter Centre.
The Auction and a Show-Stopping Highlight
The evening’s excitement peaked with the live and silent auctions, which featured unique experiences, exclusive items, and one show-stopping highlight: a Taylor Swift Eras Tour package. Two lower bowl tickets to her Vancouver concert became the night’s most sought-after item, igniting a bidding frenzy. This coveted package played a significant role in the event’s impressive fundraising total of $228,000, which will directly support the Centre’s Food and Nutrition Program.
Celebrating a Milestone
Marking its 21st year, Passions has raised over $2.5 million for the Dr. Peter Centre since its inception. With its blend of world-class cuisine, heartfelt community spirit, and generous giving, Passions continues to shine as a beacon of hope and transformation in Vancouver.
For those who attended, it was more than just a gala—it was an opportunity to support a cause that changes lives, one meal at a time.
All photography courtesy of Dr Peter Centre by Mark Yuen Visuals.
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Marketing & Communications Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine, and digital women's lifestyle magazine EcoLuxLifestyle.co. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Post-pandemic, she has worked with many small to mid-sized plant-based/vegan brands to build their digital foundations and strategize content creation and business development. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at helen@ecoluxluv.com.
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