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$300 million in donations to date for health initiatives surpassed by the family of fashion icon Suzanne Rogers
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$300 million in donations to date for health initiatives surpassed by the family of fashion icon Suzanne Rogers

Suzanne Rogers plays a central role in shaping the Rogers family’s philanthropic legacy through her diverse, impactful, and deeply personal contributions. Her hands-on involvement spans multiple sectors, including fashion, education, healthcare, and children’s welfare, showcasing her dedication to making a meaningful difference beyond financial donations.

One of Suzanne’s most significant accomplishments is her work in the fashion and education sectors. Recognizing fashion’s potential to influence and inspire, she launched “Suzanne Rogers Presents,” a high-profile fundraising series that has raised nearly $4 million for charitable causes. These events not only showcase top-tier fashion but also raise substantial awareness for causes close to her heart. Suzanne uses her passion for fashion as a platform for philanthropy, creating a synergy that benefits a range of charities and organizations.

Her impact on the fashion world extends further. In 2016, Suzanne established the Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute (SRFI) at Metropolitan University with a landmark seven-figure donation. The institute aims to nurture the next generation of fashion talent by offering financial support, mentorship, and unique learning opportunities for students.

Suzanne’s vision for the SRFI is to foster creativity and innovation, giving young designers the tools to succeed in a competitive industry. In 2020, she and her husband Edward Rogers renewed their commitment with another seven-figure donation, securing the institute’s future and expanding its influence. Through this initiative, Suzanne has elevated the local fashion scene while opening doors internationally for emerging designers.

Beyond her contributions to fashion and education, Suzanne is deeply committed to children’s welfare, particularly for vulnerable or at-risk youth. One of her most personal initiatives is her involvement with Boost Child Abuse Prevention & Intervention, where she serves as the honorary chair of Boost’s Butterfly Ball.

She plays a pivotal role in raising both funds and awareness for the prevention of child abuse. Suzanne doesn’t merely lend her name to the causes she actively participates, visiting schools and working closely with the staff to ensure that Boost’s mission is fulfilled.

Her commitment to protecting children and empowering them is a cornerstone of her philanthropic work.

In addition to her work with Boost, Suzanne is a dedicated supporter of Covenant, an organization that helps homeless and at-risk youth. Her participation in the organization’s annual “Sleep Out” campaign, where community leaders sleep on the streets for one night to raise awareness and funds for youth homelessness, is a testament to her deep involvement in the cause. Beyond the Sleep Out campaign, Suzanne has taken on a leadership role in Covenant House’s anti-human trafficking initiatives, tackling an issue that disproportionately affects vulnerable youth.

By leveraging her influence, she has drawn significant attention to these critical issues, inspiring others to contribute to the fight against human trafficking and homelessness.

Suzanne’s dedication to improving healthcare is evident through her involvement with The Hospital for Sick Children, where she serves on the committee for Scrubs in the City, a major fundraising event. Under her guidance, this event has raised over $3 million for SickKids, supporting one of the world’s leading pediatric hospitals.

Suzanne’s ongoing efforts help ensure that the hospital receives the funding necessary to continue providing groundbreaking research and world-class care for children. Her deep involvement in healthcare reflects her broader commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations, especially children.

What sets Suzanne apart as a philanthropist is her hands-on approach. Rather than simply writing checks, she is actively involved in the organizations she supports, ensuring that her contributions lead to tangible and lasting change. She has spoken about the importance of using her platform to amplify the impact of the causes she champions.

As she says, “A check is just a check. If I can get an organization to receive twenty cheques, then I think that is very impactful.” This philosophy drives much of her philanthropic work as she mobilizes donors, raises awareness, and brings attention to causes that might otherwise be overlooked.

Suzanne’s approach often focuses on supporting smaller, grassroots organizations that may lack the visibility or resources of larger charities. Her personal involvement allows her to see firsthand the difference her contributions make, whether through visiting schools with Boost staff or engaging with Covenant House initiatives. Her work goes beyond financial contributions; Suzanne’s passion for giving back is reflected in her deep engagement and leadership across the causes she supports.

While Suzanne’s name is often associated with fashion and children’s charities, her contributions to healthcare are equally significant, particularly through her role in the Rogers Foundation’s philanthropic endeavors.

The foundation’s $90 million donation to the Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research builds on an earlier $130 million gift, which helped establish the TRCHR as a leading center for heart research and treatment.

These contributions mark one of the largest philanthropic investments in local healthcare history, underscoring the Rogers family’s commitment to advancing medical research and improving patient care.

Suzanne’s role within this framework is significant, as her efforts complement the family’s larger contributions to healthcare, particularly in areas that focus on children’s health and welfare.

In total, it is estimated that the Rogers family’s philanthropic giving exceeds $300 million, including $220 million for the TRCHR, $60 million for COVID-19 relief efforts, and numerous undisclosed contributions to various causes.

The Rogers Foundation continues to be a major force in community philanthropy, with a strong focus on healthcare, education, and community support.

Suzanne Rogers’ philanthropic work extends far beyond individual donations. Her leadership in fashion, her dedication to children’s welfare, and her hands-on approach to charity make her a beacon of philanthropy both locally and internationally.

Through her passion, influence, and active involvement, Suzanne has made a profound impact on the lives of many, from fostering young fashion talent to protecting vulnerable children and supporting cutting-edge medical research.

As part of the Rogers family’s broader philanthropic legacy, her work ensures that their name remains synonymous with generosity, compassion, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

Her vision for a better world, driven by action and care, continues to shape the future of philanthropy, leaving a legacy for generations to come.

Photo (bottom): Philanthropist and Lifestyles cover subject Suzanne Rogers with Lifestyles Magazine/Meaningful Influence founder Gabriel Erem

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