Safety in Numbers
Our 2023 Impact Report
Welcome to our 2023 Impact Report, where we celebrate a year of significant achievements in lifesaving training and volunteer service across BC and Yukon.
Discover the stories behind the numbers and the hearts that drive our mission. Let’s start our journey.
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How It All Adds Up: A message from our CEO and the Chair of our Board
Left to right:
Ty Speer (CEO of St. John Ambulance BC and Yukon),
Ross Nicholls (Chair of St. John Society BC and Yukon)
It is our Volunteers, Instructors, Employees, Donors, Partner Organizations, and Students who propel us toward our vision of safe, healthy, connected communities in BC and Yukon and who inspire our relentless pursuit of innovation and adaptation to meet our region’s evolving needs.
Leaders spend a lot of time looking at numbers — charts, graphs, statistics, comparisons, key measures – to get a sense of how well we’re doing at what we promised we would do. Are we doing more, better? Are we reaching farther, faster? Are we having an impact, and making progress towards the world we envision?
Numbers tell a story, but not the whole story.
When we announce that we achieved some remarkable milestones in 2023, we have the numbers to back up the claim:
- 53,530 students completing first aid training
- 109 AEDs installed in community spaces
- 112,883 volunteer hours clocked
- Presence at 325 community events
- 403 different facilities visited by a Therapy Dog team
We are proud of these results. Not because they are big, and more, and farther, but because these numbers demonstrate the dedication, effort, commitment, and compassion of the people that make up and support St. John Ambulance. For every impressive number, there is that one lifelong learner who sets aside time to learn a lifesaving technique; an individual volunteer who shows up all weekend at a community event; the leader of a work team who rallies colleagues to take a shift at the airport to welcome and reassure one rattled child displaced by wildfires. Beyond numbers like these lie the true heart of our impact—the lives touched; the accidents averted; the communities strengthened – thank you to each and every person who stepped forward.
It is our Volunteers, Instructors, Employees, Donors, Partner Organizations, and Students who propel us toward our vision of safe, healthy, connected communities in BC and Yukon and who inspire our relentless pursuit of innovation and adaptation to meet our region’s evolving needs.
Thank you for supporting our efforts and extending our reach, embracing innovation, adaptation, and collaboration as we forge ahead in our pursuit of a safer, healthier, and more resilient future for all.
Thank you for volunteering and standing as a loyal guardian of community safety, the essence of compassion, and the driving force behind our impact.
Thank you for supporting our first aid training programs. By choosing to train with us, you’re not just investing in your own safety; you’re also investing in the well-being of those around you. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission to create safer and healthier communities together.
As you review this report, we hope you are moved by both the statistics and the stories. When you imagine one individual making a difference, and extend that impact out across programs, communities, and unique situations, you start to understand the strength of the St. John Ambulance community. In 2023, we saw how the power of one individual committing to one initiative was multiplied by the power of many to change hundreds of communities and thousands of lives for the better.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Ross Nicholls, CStJ
Chair, St. John Society (British Columbia and Yukon)
Ty Speer
CEO, St. John Ambulance (British Columbia and Yukon)
Our Mission
Since its founding over 900 years ago, the mission of St. John has remained steadfast: to enhance the health, safety, and well-being of communities everywhere. Our long history is thanks, in part, to our resilience and adaptability and proof of our commitment to excellence. We stand apart as a leader in emergency response training and resources, always innovating to meet the changing needs of society. In BC and the Yukon, we’re proud to be a local organization rooted in the communities we serve. Our volunteers are your neighbours, friends, and colleagues, all dedicated to creating safer environments where we work, live and play.
What sets us apart is not just what we do but how we do it. Unlike other organizations, our programs work twice as hard to make communities safer: we train people how to save lives in a range of environments and use the revenue from our training programs to fund our other essential community initiatives. This is how we’re able to keep going and see the impact we can have.
The Multiplying Effect: Celebrating Impact
In 2023, our impact throughout BC and Yukon was tangible and wide-reaching. We made a real difference in the lives of individuals and families. From responding to emergencies to supporting local youth initiatives, our programs directly benefited those in need, fostering safer neighbourhoods and stronger communities, furthering our commitment to making a positive difference at the local level.
53,530
students completing first aid training
109
AEDs installed in community spaces
112,883
volunteer hours clocked
325
local community events supported
403
different facilities visited by a Therapy Dog team
01 - Empowering Communities with CPR Training
49,622
BC and Yukon residents trained in CPR
In 2023, we trained 49,622 individuals in CPR techniques, equipping them with life-saving skills. With approximately 60,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring in Canada each year, we can confidently say BC and Yukon are now more prepared and responsive communities. Every nine minutes, someone’s life is at risk, but thanks to our training programs, more people are ready to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies at home and in public spaces.
First Aid Saves the Day
Our instructor, Monikka Arayata, shared a heartwarming story about Jerry, a former student who used his newfound first aid skills in a real-life situation.
Mere weeks after taking the first aid course, Jerry, a manager at a local Vancouver retail outlet, encountered a customer suddenly experiencing a cardiac emergency. Thanks to the knowledge he gained in Monikka’s class, Jerry was able to act quickly and effectively. He acted immediately, providing first aid and CPR until medical help arrived.
Jerry’s story is a testament to the life-saving potential of St. John Ambulance’s first aid training programs. His quick thinking and the skills he acquired in the course potentially saved a life. This incident is a powerful reminder of the profound impact these programs can have on our communities.
02 - Instructor Excellence Garners High Student Satisfaction
65,345
total instruction hours
Our dedicated team of instructors play a pivotal role in improving workplace safety through first aid training. In 2023, they taught over 5,600 classes, dedicating more than 65,345 instructional hours to preparing individuals to respond effectively.
85% of our students are extremely or very satisfied with our training programs. This impressive score highlights the exceptional quality of our training and the significant impact our dedicated instructors have on our students’ learning experiences. It tells us that participants not only gain essential knowledge but also feel empowered and confident in their ability to handle emergencies. Investing in first aid training gives organizations and individuals the chance to ensure a safer work environment, reduce severity of injuries, and save lives.
“Our instructor was compassionate, engaging and supportive and catered to everyone’s learning style.” ~ Simran, Standard First Aid student
“An outstanding job of teaching myself and co-workers Emergency First Aid. Our emergency response confidence was boosted!” ~ Sydney, Emergency First Aid student
“I was nervous at first but ended up having an amazing experience due to a professional and inspiring instructor. Thank you for helping me accomplish my goals.” ~ Grace, Occupational First Aid student
“The investment in training pays off with invaluable skills and confidence. One of the most challenging and rewarding experiences I’ve ever had.” ~ Sean, Occupational First Aid Level 3 student
03 - Local Organizations Strengthen Workplace Safety
3,030
organizations sent employees
for first aid training with us
44% increase over 2022
Our impact goes beyond training individuals. In 2023, we partnered with 3,030 organizations to prioritize workplace safety, up from 2,100 in 2022. This increase shows businesses’ growing awareness of the importance of employee training for safer work environments. Their trust in St. John Ambulance BC & Yukon reflects a shared commitment to safety and preparedness. By investing in first aid training, companies equip their workforce with life-saving skills. Each engagement secures a safer future, strengthens organizational resilience, and emphasizes a commitment to employee well-being.
04 - Addressing the Opioid Crisis Through Education
lives lost in 2023
(6.9 per day)
38,866
individuals trained in
opioid response in 2023
36,010 trained in 2022
With a 119% increase in annual overdose/poisoning events in BC since the public health emergency was declared in 2016 (BCEHS), we take the crisis very seriously. Our commitment to combat it is reflected in our training efforts. In 2023, we trained 38,866 individuals in opioid response, a notable increase from the previous year’s 36,010 participants. This is particularly crucial in regions like British Columbia, where unregulated drugs claimed the lives of at least 2,511 people in 2023 (6.9 deaths per day), marking the highest number of drug-related deaths on record.
More training means more people can recognize and respond to opioid-related emergencies, potentially saving lives and mitigating the impact of this devastating crisis.
Fear of losing a life
“Taking a first aid course that takes up as little as a day of your life, can be what saves another’s.” says Amanda Cohen, a St. John employee who recently became an unexpected hero during an apparent opioid poisoning. While out with friends she observed someone on the street slumped over and non-responsive, so made the quick decision to help.
We asked Amanda about the experience and what gave her the courage to step up and step in. “I’m a shy person, and though people had gathered, I noticed no one was providing actual first aid and feared that the person would lose their life if action wasn’t taken immediately,” she said. “Fortunately, my first aid training from work came to mind, so I remembered what to do.” It was that quick thinking combined with first aid skills that saved the individual’s life.
When asked how she was able to remember all the steps and remain focused, she said “It was a team effort. My training reminded me to involve others so that I could continue CPR compressions non-stop. One person ran and got the naloxone, another person called 911, and a third person administered the naloxone. Without that training I’m not sure I would have had the courage to step in and help.”
Amanda’s advice for bystanders who don’t feel confident enough to help in an emergency? “Just do your best. You’re only human, but you can prepare yourself for situations like this by taking a first aid class.”
05 - Equipping Communities with Life-Saving First Aid Skills
53,530
individuals trained in first aid
Our commitment to equipping individuals with life-saving skills has had great results, as seen by the increase in enrollment in first aid training. In 2023, a total of 53,530 students participated in our first aid courses — a substantial increase from the previous year’s enrollment of 51,551.
By adding to the number of well-trained and confidently prepared individuals every year, work, home, neighbourhoods, parks, and communities become safer for everyone.
06 - Community Partnerships Help Expand Access to Life-Saving AEDs
109
AEDs distributed
In collaboration with community partners, we added 109 life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to our communities in 2023. These AEDs can be life-saving resources in times of cardiac emergencies, providing immediate assistance until professional medical help arrives. By strategically placing AEDs in accessible locations, such as grocery stores and public spaces, individuals can act quickly to help save lives. The deployment of these additional AEDs reflects our ongoing commitment to proactive emergency preparedness and underscores the power of collaborative partnerships in creating safer and more resilient communities.
07 - Empowering Communities through Volunteer Engagement
No Data Found
325
events provided
with first aid coverage
Dedicated volunteers are the backbone of our organization and their commitment to community service has shown remarkable growth. In 2023, we saw a notable increase in volunteer hours, rising from 109,749 in 2022 to 112,883. This surge in volunteer engagement means more hands on-deck at local community events, increased volunteer presence and greater access to first aid assistance for everyone, resulting in a safer and more supportive community. These additional hours of service also reflect our volunteers’ unwavering dedication to having a positive impact, contributing in a meaningful way to the well-being of our communities.
In a testament to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers, we are thrilled to report a nearly tripled attendance at local community events in 2023 (325 events). Showing up for a diverse range of events, from festivals to sports tournaments, our volunteers extended their reach and impact, making life-saving assistance more accessible to attendees when they needed it. This significant milestone reinforces our collective efforts to create safer and healthier communities for everyone.
St. John Ambulance Trio Saves Athlete at BC55+ Games
August 24, 2023 – At the BC55+ Games, a seemingly ordinary morning turned dramatic when a male athlete collapsed at the finish line. The heat and haze hung heavy in the air, but it was the actions of heroes, not the weather, that stole the show. St. John Ambulance volunteers Kevin Xue, Rachel Anderson, and Mark Dela Cruz were on the scene with colleagues. These heroes sprang into action, performing CPR and using an AED to revive the casualty.
Despite the challenging conditions, the three volunteers, along with bystanders, assessed the situation swiftly. Rachel comforted the athlete’s wife while Mark and Kevin used their vital first aid skills. Their teamwork, including CPR with oxygen and AED shocks, proved life-saving.
By the time paramedics arrived, the athlete had regained a pulse and was breathing independently. Thanks to the quick actions of these volunteers, a life was saved. This story is a powerful reminder of the importance of first aid training and the difference it can make. In recognition of their heroism, Mark, Kevin, and Rachel were honoured with a St. John Ambulance Life-Saving Award.
08 - Spreading Joy and Comfort one Visit at a Time
403
facilities attended by
our Therapy Dog teams
Our Therapy Dog Program provides comfort and compassion across British Columbia and the Yukon. Through the unconditional love and companionship provided by our specially trained therapy dog teams, we have significantly impacted the well-being of countless individuals in need of emotional support.
In the past year alone, our Therapy Dog volunteers have spread moments of joy and compassion to individuals at 403 facilities throughout the province. These facilities include senior care homes, libraries, schools, and workplaces, reflecting the program’s versatility and ability to uplift spirits in various environments. Therapy Dog teams create meaningful connections and foster a sense of community wherever they go. The ever-growing number of therapy dog team visits shows that communities are beginning to recognize the positive impact of human-animal bonds.
A Therapy Dog Miracle: Danika Finds Her Voice
Rena Harris and her furry companion, Grover, are a ray of sunshine at Newton Elementary. Every week, this St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog team visits children facing social and emotional challenges, many on the autism spectrum. One student, Danika, has blossomed thanks to Grover’s calming presence. Though nonverbal, Danika found comfort stroking Grover during their weekly sessions.
Then, on their fourth visit together, something magical happened. Danika discovered a ball of yarn and, with a laugh that melted hearts, began dressing Grover! In that joyful moment, Danika spoke.
This breakthrough wasn’t just for Danika. Her mother, witnessing her daughter’s transformation, felt a spark of hope. The once silent visits became filled with chatter, both girls brimming with excitement about Grover. Even the family’s dream of getting a dog of their own was rekindled, inspired by Grover’s gentle companionship.
Rena, Grover’s handler, believes the therapy dog’s impact extends beyond the children. “Grover has always been patient,” she says, “but after 10 years, we’re all still amazed by his ability to bring out the best in everyone.” Grover, the once “laid-back boy,” has become a furry therapist, reminding us of the profound power of love and cuddles.
Disaster Response: 2023 Wildfire Support
In 2023, British Columbia faced devastating wildfires that resulted in widespread evacuations and displaced communities. St. John Ambulance swiftly mobilized its resources and volunteers to provide essential support to affected areas.
During the height of the wildfire crisis, we deployed volunteers to five emergency social support centers across the Interior region of British Columbia. These centers, located in Kamloops, Vernon, Kelowna (2), and Cache Creek, served as lifelines for evacuees, supplying crucial assistance and support during their time of need. Volunteers dedicated themselves to providing first aid services, emotional support, and logistical assistance to evacuees.
More than 900 hours of volunteer service were recorded for three of the five callouts during the active disaster season from May to September 2023. This commitment reflects the dedication and compassion of our volunteers in supporting communities during times of crisis.
Recognizing the emotional toll of evacuation on individuals and families, we deployed therapy dog teams to provide psychosocial and emotional support at Emergency Social Support Centers in Kamloops and Kelowna. Accompanied by their handlers these trained therapy dogs offered comfort and companionship to evacuees, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety during a challenging period.
In addition to supporting local evacuees, we extended assistance to evacuees from the Northwest Territories. Volunteers provided portering services upon their arrival at Vancouver International Airport, ensuring a smooth transition for displaced individuals. Working alongside paramedics, care aids, and nurses, SJA BCY volunteers facilitated the safe transport of medically stable evacuees to care homes and other receiving facilities in British Columbia.
The 2023 wildfire season tested the resilience of communities across the province, but it also showcased the strength and compassion of our volunteers. We remain committed to providing essential services and support to communities in times of crisis, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our volunteers, partners, and stakeholders for their dedication and support.
Celebrating Our Community: A Heartfelt Thank You
We can fulfill our mission because of the support and commitment of our incredible St. John Ambulance community. As we reflect on the past year, we feel deep gratitude for every individual and organization that has stood by us as we strive to enhance community health, safety, and well-being.
We extend our thanks to:
Together we are stronger, creating safer, healthier, and more resilient communities. Your support, dedication, and partnership are deeply valued and appreciated. Thank you for being an integral part of the St. John Ambulance community and for helping us make a real difference in the world.
Message from the Treasurer
Dear St. John Ambulance Friends,
I’m pleased to report significant progress made in 2023 towards our goal of financial stability for St. John Ambulance BCY. This year likely marks the final significant impact of COVID-19, evidenced by strong growth across various revenue streams.
Financial Highlights:
- Net training revenue increased by 7% compared to 2022, reflecting the hard work of our team who trained over 52,000 students.
- Product sales saw a 16% increase in net revenue, and thanks to the Ministry of Health’s support, donations and grants also saw healthy growth.
- The dedication of our volunteers is truly remarkable. Event donations from clients exceeded our budget by an impressive 100%!
Behind the Scenes:
The Finance and Audit Committee, in close collaboration with the CEO and team, diligently oversaw this progress. We aimed to ensure the safe custody and efficient use of resources that ultimately support our frontline volunteers. Through operational efficiency efforts, we kept expenses well-managed.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to strategic growth and responsible financial management. This strong foundation allows St. John Ambulance to continue delivering vital life-saving and life-enhancing services in our communities.
Thank you to all our St. John colleagues for your support. The dedicated members of the Finance and Audit Committee share your dedication and look forward to working with you in the year ahead.
Yours in service,
Brendan L’Heureux, OStJ, CD
Financial Report
Total
Revenue
$13,112,502
No Data Found
Expenses
$14,088,754
No Data Found
The Future: Ensuring You Can Always Count on Us
Whatever the future brings, we know there will always be a need for the St. John Ambulance community: our Volunteers, Instructors, Employees, Donors, Partner Organizations, and Students who contribute to widespread preparedness and to the revenues that fund our programs.
In addition to improving community safety and resilience throughout BC and Yukon, we face specific local emergencies as well — from wildfires to floods, and the ever-pressing challenges posed by the opioid epidemic and its strain on British Columbia’s health system. During these crises too, thanks to our community, St. John Ambulance is poised to lead through collaboration and innovation.
Looking ahead, we see a landscape that demands reliable, responsive solutions. We are committed to forging strategic partnerships that position SJA as a crucial ally in both community support and emergency response initiatives.
Our focus remains on being able to prepare thoroughly and expertly, and to respond swiftly and effectively. Through proactive engagement and continuous improvement, we will keep finding ways to safeguard lives and promote resilience now and into the future.
We are driven by a shared vision of creating safer, healthier, and more resilient communities. When we come together and combine our efforts, our energy, and our enthusiasm, we can overcome obstacles, address critical needs, and provide the life-changing services that our communities count on. Together our aggregated knowledge, support, commitment and compassion enables us to do more, better; reach farther, faster; and have a tangible impact on creating the world we envision.
Your Efforts for Good, Multiplied
Imagine the impact if everyone contributed just a little to the greater good. You’ve seen in this report how one good turn, multiplied, adds up to significantly healthier, safer, more resilient communities across BC and Yukon.
You can add to the impact in many ways. You can choose to make a donation that will fund our community programs or take a first aid course — which also helps fund programs while giving you life-saving skills and adding to the number of good neighbours trained in emergency response. Your contribution will start a ripple of positive change, helping us build communities where safety, care, and support are the guiding principles. Small starts, multiplied by many, grow into big changes.
