By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 28, 2025

The Eric Woodward Foundation, established in 2018, is a unique charitable organization based in Fort Langley, British Columbia. Founded by Eric Woodward, a local entrepreneur and current Mayor of the Township of Langley, the foundation was created to transition his substantial real estate holdings into a vehicle for community benefit. The foundation's mission is to direct development profits from Fort Langley Properties Ltd. to support charitable causes within the Greater Langley area, with a focus on health, education, and assistance for the underprivileged.

Over a period of 15 years starting in 2005, Woodward acquired approximately 40% of the central commercial properties in downtown Fort Langley. These holdings, valued at around $55 million at the time of the foundation's inception, are expected to exceed $100 million in value over the next decade. The foundation's approach is encapsulated in its guiding principle: "Community Before Profit." ​

The Eric Woodward Foundation also plays a significant role in community engagement by organizing and supporting local events such as the Fort Langley Night Markets, Cranberry Festival, and various movie nights. These initiatives aim to foster a vibrant community spirit and enhance the cultural fabric of Fort Langley.

In addition to event sponsorship, the foundation has made substantial financial contributions to local institutions. Notably, it committed $1.1 million to the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation to support the development of a new pediatrics zone and waiting lounge in the hospital's emergency department. As of early 2021, $300,000 had been donated in installments of $100,000, with plans for continued support.

The foundation's activities are overseen by a board of directors comprising local residents, ensuring that decisions align with community interests. This structure reflects Woodward's vision of a community-driven approach to development and philanthropy.

Through its innovative model of integrating real estate development with charitable giving, the Eric Woodward Foundation exemplifies a commitment to sustainable community development and serves as a model for similar initiatives in other regions.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Eric Woodward Foundation #Fort Langley Properties Ltd #Langley is Awesome

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