Inspiring Canadians since 1906!
A journalist in Hamilton, Charles McCullough and four of his friends, founded the first Canadian Club in 1893. McCullough sought to foster interest in matters affecting the welfare of Canada – just 25 years after Confederation. Soon after, The Canadian Club of Toronto was founded in 1897 and other clubs followed across Canada. The Honourable Vincent Massey described them as forming “…the only organization in Canada that exists for the primary purpose of promoting a faith in our country and a love for it.”
Before instantaneous news coverage, prime ministers used the clubs to reach out to Canadians – particularly in times of crises like the outbreak of war. The Men’s Canadian Club of Victoria was formed in 1906, followed by the Women’s Canadian Club of Victoria in 1909. The two clubs amalgamated into one club in 1995.
Today, the Canadian Clubs of Canada offer news-makers the opportunity to speak in depth about key issues to their various audiences. There are approximately 40 Canadian Clubs across Canada, including in the cities of Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Victoria.
We bring together people who share a keen interest in Canadian life. Our programs provide context, perspective, and a deeper level of understanding of the issues shaping our nation. Our mission is to promote Canadian identity by presenting a forum for inspiring speakers to provide insights on issues of importance to Canadians. We provide a non-partisan forum to explore social, cultural and political topics, looking beneath the headlines of the day to explore more fully the factors shaping Canadian life.
No invitation required! You are warmly welcome to attend our monthly luncheons, seasonal celebrations and special events. It is our hope that you will find these events to be meaningful and rewarding, and will decide to support our mission by joining our membership.
Luncheons
We meet for lunch on the third Tuesday of the month from September through June. Our guest speakers make 20 to 30-minute presentations, then take questions from the audience. These lively and thought-provoking sessions enable us to delve more deeply into the topic of the day, providing insights and inspiration. (And the three-course luncheons also get rave reviews!)
Luncheons meetings start at 11:45 am, unless otherwise noted. Please register by the Friday before the next luncheon using www.eventbrite.com (search, The Canadian Club of Victoria for monthly event) Luncheons are normally held at the Hotel Grand Pacific, downtown Victoria unless noted.
Usual luncheon costs: Members $50 Non-members $60
The Canadian Club of Victoria Bursary
The Canadian Club of Victoria supports the Camosun College Foundation with The Canadian Club of Victoria Bursary for eligible students. Members and guests at our annual Christmas Tea at the Empress Hotel are encouraged to donate to the Fund, which provides deserving students with financial assistance to help achieve their educational goals. (Tax receipts are available)
Donations may be made any time to the following link
Camosun College Foundation
The Canadian Club of Victoria Bursary
4461 Interurban Road
Victoria, BC V9E 2C1
To receive a charitable donation receipt, please include your return address.