On June 26, 2025, BCU Foundation hosted its biannual Donor Appreciation Evening, titled “Celebrating Our Legacy, Building the Future,” held at Old Mill Toronto. This special evening provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with our dedicated supporters, showcase the tangible impact of their contributions, and share our exciting vision for the future.
The evening commenced with opening remarks from Bohdan Leshchyshen, Chair of the BCU Foundation Board. He highlighted the remarkable achievement of disbursing $22 million since the Foundation’s inception, providing critical care and programs both in Canada and across Ukraine.
Guests were then taken back to the origins, learning about the establishment of the Yurij Skripchinski Funds in 2006. Tatiana Bidiak, grand-niece of Yurij Skripchinski and a director of the Foundation, offered a poignant reflection on the profound importance of family and giving back to the community.
A significant part of the evening was dedicated to introducing several new Designated Funds at the Foundation. These funds offer a powerful avenue for Canadian individuals, families, and organizations to create a lasting legacy. The newly introduced funds include:
- Maria Nebesio Ukrainian Cultural Fund
- Father Dr. Myron Stasiw War Veterans Fund
- Peter John Wowk and Family Fund
- Gabrielle and Borys Holowacz Fund “Children First”
We were especially honored to have Gabrielle and Borys Holowacz in attendance, where they were presented with a Trembitar Award. Their incredible generosity directly supports the lives of Ukrainian orphans residing at the children’s orphanage in Ternopil, Ukraine.
BCU Foundation “Canada 150 Fund” Graduate Scholarship for 2025 was presented by adjudicator Paul Horbal to Alexandra Shkandrij. This scholarship, established in 2017 to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary, supports Ukrainian-Canadian graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to their community. Alexandra, currently a PhD candidate in Political Science at the University of Toronto, was recognized for her doctoral research on the impact of occupation on Ukrainian national identity.
The evening concluded with a powerful focus on the critical importance of supporting Ukraine in its time of need. Nadia Gereliouk, director of the Foundation, spoke about the work of Ucrainica Research Institute. This non-profit is dedicated to education and research, providing a better understanding of Ukraine and its people, especially surrounding disinformation. Following her, Halyna Vynnyk, spoke on the Ukraine Humanitarian Aid Fund. Halyna served as president of the League of Ukrainian Canadian Women Toronto who initiated the Fund. The fund is strongly supported by the Ukrainian-Canadian community, delivering crucial medical supplies to hospitals, offering humanitarian aid to civilians, and providing treatment and medical support for injured soldiers across Ukraine.
BCU Foundation continues its vital work supporting the Ukrainian community in Canada and abroad, guided by our motto “Community Spirit Binding Generations.” It’s thanks to our donors unwavering support that we’re able to fund diverse initiatives, from educational projects and cultural endeavors to humanitarian aid and youth programs, truly building a lasting legacy of impact. We sincerely thank our benefactors for their continuous contributions and for joining us for an evening of shared vision and heartfelt appreciation.
To help us continue our mission, please consider making a donation today.
Слава Україні! Героям слава!
Thank you to our photographer Nick Wons
