Victoria’s Inner Harbour is set to become the backdrop for a summer celebration featuring Grammy winners, Broadway stars and internationally acclaimed performers, all in support of a cause that has helped families across Canada navigate pediatric organ transplants.
The David Foster Foundation has announced CeeLo Green and Loren Allred as the latest additions to its free Aug. 8 waterfront concert, joining David Foster, Josh Groban, Katharine McPhee, The Tenors and other notable guests for an evening of music and philanthropy.
For foundation CEO Michael Ravenhill, the event is as much about gratitude as it is entertainment.
“Forty years, 1,600 families have been supported, millions of dollars have been provided for these families, and it all started in Victoria. We’re coming back to celebrate, but also to say thank you,” Ravenhill told CTV News.
The concert will bring together an eclectic mix of performers, including Pia Toscano, Daniel Emmet and Sheléa, alongside celebrity hosts Melissa Peterman and Erich Bergen. Additional guests are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
“When David does a concert, David really does a concert,” Ravenhill said.
“It is going to be a night you won’t want to miss and definitely a cause you’ll never forget.”
While the music will take centre stage, organizers also hope the event shines a spotlight on organ donation.
“It only takes two minutes to register to become an organ donor,” Ravenhill said.
“One person can save up to eight people’s lives and improve the lives of as many as 75 others.”
The David Foster Foundation provides non-medical financial support to families whose children are undergoing life-saving organ transplants, assisting them navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives. This support helps cover essential expenses such as groceries, travel, mortgage or rent payments and utilities.
Ravenhill says making the concert free was important to Foster, who wanted the community that helped launch the foundation to share in the celebration.
“He wanted this to be very special for Victoria,” Ravenhill said. “He wanted this to be a free concert that people could enjoy, with incredible world-class talent.”
For anyone planning to attend, Ravenhill offers one piece of advice.
“Come early,” he said. “You don’t want to miss the beginning, and you don’t want to miss the end, because there are some real surprises.”
The David Foster & Friends concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 8 at Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
