Langley’s Sikh community shares Giving Hearts for local hospital care
One of Langley’s favourite spring events has an extra-special new date - one perfect for its message of giving and of bringing people together to build a strong, vibrant community.
The Giving Hearts Gala returns on April 4, and in addition to raising vital funds for the Langley Community Health & Hospital Foundation, will help kick off Vaisakhi celebrations here in Langley.
Event chair Bob Sangha thinks of his parents, who were both cared for at the Langley Memorial, and of the spirit of giving, hard work and humility that are at the heart of the Sikh faith.
“Giving is the essence of Sikhism - it’s a way of life,” Sangha reflects, telling the story of the Guru Nanak, regarded as the founder of Sikhism, who as a child gave money his father had given him to a people in need. “Whenever something happens in the world, Sikhs are always there to help.”
Pairing that with Vaisakhi, and its celebration of light, faith, culture and togetherness, is the perfect union, Sangha says, inviting everyone to join in the festivities. “We want the whole community to come out because we are all one.”
Some 350 guests are expected for a remarkable evening at the Mirage Banquet hall, with Harjinder Thind from Red FM as a special presenter.
In addition to delicious Southeast Asian cuisine - the best way to bring people together, Sangha notes - the night will feature both live and silent auctions, with packages from Elements Casino, The Barley Merchant Taproom, Innovative Fitness, BC Lions, and Vancouver Giants, with a signed hockey stick from Michael Bublé, and many more. The Dance with Chandni dance school will also share a live dance performance.
Founded in 2019 by Langley’s South Asian community, the Giving Hearts Gala has raised an incredible $1,165,000 to date in support of Langley Memorial Hospital, including:
$260,000 to maintain surgical excellence at the hospital,
$240,000 to renew the hospital’s Spiritual Space,
$215,000 for a Giraffe Carestation to support vulnerable newborns at Langley’s Maternity unit,
$150,000 for wheelchairs and walkers that aid patient mobility,
$200,000 to help build the Martini Family Emergency Centre and MRI Suite.
Building on that success, gala organizers are excited to launch a new Giving Hearts Endowment fund, with the details to be shared at the gala, Sangha says, encouraging the community to come join the celebration and help build the future of health care in Langley.
“It’s all about giving back to the community and giving back more than we take,” Sangha says.
Giving Hearts Gala tickets are $250 each or $2,000 for a table of eight.