“Contributions can take many forms: time given, connections made, and financial capital donated. Our talented educators understand the needs of the students and our school best as they are the closest to it. We choose to contribute to the Shaping Lives Annual Fund to further elevate the student experience.” - James and Trish Kurkiewicz (Raegan '28, CJ '30) 

Shaping Lives Fund

What is the Shaping Lives Fund? 
The Shaping Lives Fund is the key to unlocking your child’s greatest potential at WPGA. Your contributions benefit every area, grade and program at WPGA, impacting your child’s learning today and building their futures tomorrow through purpose-driven donations, allocated that same school year.  

How Does Annual Giving Work? 
The Shaping Lives Fund is open to donations all year, although we request donations in the fall and end of school year for maximum funding flexibility. We ask all WPGA families to contribute in a way that is meaningful and sustainable. More than a target amount, we aim for 100% family participation. All donations, regardless of amount, make a difference and help to shape our students’ futures.

A separate philanthropic request is made in the spring for our annual Parent Volunteer Group fundraiser, which often supports a specific school project.  

Ways to Give

  • Monthly Gifts: Your monthly commitment is the most effective way to support our students. On the donation form, please select "monthly gift."
  • One Time Gifts: Donate by credit card or by cheque (payable to WPGA Foundation).  
  • Gifts of Securities/Stock: Donations of appreciated securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds) to a registered charity can turn a potential tax bill into a tax deduction. For more information, please contact the Advancement Office.     

Acknowledgements: Donor names (family, Foundation or individual) are recognized in our Annual Report. Gifts may be anonymous or on behalf of another person. Connect with the Advancement Office to specify your recognition preferences. 


Contact: To learn more about giving at WPGA, contact Stephanie MacMillan, Director of Advancement, by email or at 604-222-8750, x.1523. 


CRA Charitable Number: 855790887 RR 0001

    List of 5 frequently asked questions.

    • Q. I already pay tuition; why are donations important?

      Like all independent schools, tuition at WPGA is intended to cover operations and compensation only. It does not cover enriched curriculum, teaching resources or facility improvements. The Shaping Lives Fund helps to keep tuition as low as possible for an independent school of our size and program offerings and, unlike tuition, gifts to the Shaping Lives Annual Fund are tax deductible.

    • Q. Will my gift really make an impact? What if I can contribute only a nominal amount?

      Yes! All gifts to the Shaping Lives Annual Fund are directed to priority school needs and transformative student experiences.
      Donations of any amount make a difference and show confidence in WPGA. 

      The Shaping Lives Fund is tracked for family participation annually as a measure of our community's commitment. Participation in the annual fund reflects our families' belief in our mission and vision, enables us to "lead with yes," and empowers our students to genuinely experience inquiry, action and joy, today and for years to come.  

    • Q. Are all WPGA families expected to give to the Shaping Lives Annual Fund?

      WPGA's philanthropic culture is rooted in inclusiveness and participation, and the Shaping Lives Annual Fund reflects this philosophy. The goal of the Shaping Lives Fund is 100% family participation, and each year we invite all families to make a meaningful gift, one that reflects your family's giving capacity.  

      While volunteer service and engagement in the school is tremendously valued and important, all families will be invited to give to the Shaping Lives Annual Fund. Gifts of any amount are valued, and every donation to the Shaping Lives Fund has an immediate and lasting impact on the quality of education our students receive.

    • Q. Can I designate my gift?

      Funding priorities are identified by teachers and staff and vetted by the School Leadership Team. Gifts over $5,000 can be directed to an area of focus in discussion with Stephanie MacMillan, Director of Advancement.

    • Q. Can I provide a matching gift?

      Yes, we very much encourage becoming a matching donor, particularly for our Giving Tuesday campaign each year.
      There are different ways to organize your match and we can discuss what works for the goal of the campaign, and for you.
       Some employers also provide a matching donation for your gift to WPGA, so it’s always great to check.

      For questions or interest in matching, contact Stephanie MacMillan.

    West Point Grey Academy

    4125 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C., V6R 4P9
    Tel: 604-222-8750  |  info@wpga.ca