SickKids Foundation had a record-breaking finish to the 2010/2011 fiscal year, despite the lingering effects of a global economic recession. While our final results won’t be confirmed for a few weeks, all indications point to a year-end finish of close to $107 million – up 21 per cent from 2009/10.

This incredible achievement is a testament to the generosity of our donors and the hard work of our volunteers and staff. It will allow the Foundation to make major investments in advancing child health both at The Hospital for Sick Children and across the country through our national grants program.

I am also pleased to report that the Foundation continued to reduce its cost per dollar for fundraising and administration, consistent with our goal of being in the mid-range of comparable charities on this measure.

A major focus for our fundraising effort this past year has been the new SickKids Research & Learning Tower, a $400-million facility now under construction at the corner of Bay and Elm streets. Under the leadership of Tim Hockey, Chair of The Research & Learning Tower Campaign, more than $46 million in commitments have been secured from donors for this vital initiative. Clearly, our aspiration to be the preeminent centre in the world for child health research has resonated with our donor community.

As we begin the next year, we’ll continue to look for innovative ways to attract and steward our donors, communicate the impact that donations have at SickKids and beyond and look for ways to become even more efficient and effective in our work. With the support of our Board of Directors, collaboration with the Hospital and help from our donors, volunteers and stakeholders, we can make the upcoming 2011/2012 year our best yet.