Laughter that gives back. A legacy worth celebrating.
Join us for a one-time-only, exclusive philanthropic event— West Coast Roast: A Friendly Toast to Fred Lee—a night of comedy, community, and compassion.
For over 20 years, Fred Lee—known affectionately as Vanhattan’s “Man About Town”—has been the go-to voice for Vancouver’s most celebrated fundraisers. The West Coast Roast is an uplifting tribute to Fred’s remarkable legacy of giving back. Fred has championed countless causes, helping charities raise millions. Now, it’s our turn to shine the spotlight on someone who has spent his life shining it on others—and support a cause close to his heart.
This evening goes beyond laughter; it’s an investment in a pain-free future for thousands of kids.
More than 25,000 children in Canada live with arthritis, a painful chronic disease that steals moments of joy, limits mobility, and robs kids of their childhood.
Together, we’re helping ensure arthritis doesn’t steal childhood.
West Coast Roast Emcees
George Stroumboulopoulos
George Stroumboulopoulos is a globally renowned storyteller, broadcaster, producer, and entrepreneur, synonymous with culture and the creative arts in Canada. He is known for hosting CBC’s The Hour, George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight, CNN interview series, and Hockey Night in Canada, and his radio show, The Strombo Show, reaches audiences in 165+ countries. A member of the Order of Canada, he is actively involved in humanitarian causes and social justice initiatives.
Gloria Macarenko
Gloria Macarenko is the host of CBC Vancouver’s afternoon show On the Coast, where she explores the day’s news and local communities. Gloria is also host of CBC Television’s Our Vancouver, a current affairs program that focuses on the city’s diverse culture, as well as The Story from Here, a national Radio One show that brings Canadians lively and intriguing interviews from across the country.
West Coast Roast Roasters
Margaret Gallagher
CBC Radio Host
Darcy Greiner
Longtime friend of Fred Lee
Sophie Lui
Global News Anchor
David Poole
Former SVP Scotiabank, BC & Yukon
Martin Thibodeau
Regional President, BC, RBC Royal Bank
Event Schedule
- 5:00 pm — Registration & Reception
- 6:00 pm — Curtain Rises
- 6:45 pm — Live Auction
- 8:15 pm — The Roast of Fred Lee
- 9:00 pm — Fund-A-Need
- 10:00 pm — Curtain Falls
Helping children living with arthritis to thrive
Stronger Tomorrows: Supporting Children & Youth
Stronger Tomorrows: Supporting Children & Youth shines a light on a reality that often surprises people: arthritis doesn’t wait for old age.
More than 25,000 children and youth across Canada live with this disease, making simple moments like getting out of bed, carrying a backpack, or even playing with friends daily painful battles. Beyond the physical toll, up to 40% of teens with arthritis also experience symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Arthritis is the most common chronic childhood disease in Canada — and Grace has lived with it nearly all her life. Diagnosed with arthritis at just 18 months old, she grew up navigating constant pain and limitations. Thanks to programs like Camp British Columbia, Grace found confidence and community and now returns every summer as a counsellor to support children walking a similar path. As she says, “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Arthritis Society Canada.”
Through Stronger Tomorrows, we are raising $1 million in Western Canada to expand programs, strengthen resources, and invest in research that improves outcomes for children and youth.
