St. James friends and supporters generously pledged and gave $100,000 at this year's anniversary Small Victories fundraising luncheon on October 13, 2011. Global TV anchor Chris Gailus mc'd the event at the Pan Pacific Hotel, where the exciting announcement was made that St. James has been selected to develop, manage and operate the BC Housing affordable housing development at the former Remand Centre at 211 Gore (learn more here).

Two new videos were premiered at the event. 50th Anniversary is a moving look at the work of St. James over the years featuring interviews with clients and friends like Vancouver housing advocate Judy Graves and Vancouver Coastal Health's Dr. Sue Burgess.

The Wall is a pictoral record of the creation of St. James's mural painted last July. In partnership with the City of Vancouver’s Celebrate Vancouver 125 Mural Program, the mural was painted by Joey Mallett and Rita Buchwitz and adorns the west wall of 315 Powell St. beside Rice World, facing Gore Ave. David Martin, president of Hyphen Communications, generously donated his time and talent to the creation of The Wall video.

A Cause for Celebration was held on September 27, 2011 in honour of St. James Community Service Society's 50th anniversary. The party recognized all our dedicated staff, volunteers, funders, supporters and board members.

A champagne toast, delicious nibbles and prizes contributed to the party atmosphere, held in the Tatami Room at the Japanese Language School, which provided a backdrop described by one employee as "a million-dollar view."

Some wonderful music and inspiring words were offered by local musician Dalannah Gail Bowen. Deputy Mayor Kerry Jang said kind things about St. James, calling our work "soul food for the community." Naomi Brunemeyer from BC Housing and Val Munroe from Vancouver Coastal Health represented our partners, and long-service awards were given to a handful of dedicated employees who have worked with St. James for up to 35 years!