Raising funds for IWK Health Centre Construction Association of Nova Scotia (CANS)’s Developing Executives Group takes the lead in fundraising at annual De-Icer networking event ATLANTIC CANADA Canadian Design and Construction Report special feature The Construction Association of Nova Scotia (CANS) is rooted in the history of construction in eastern Canada, beginning in 1862, when the Halifax Builder’s Society and committees formed to discuss wages and working condi- tions. The association evolved to become CANS in 1969, and now represents more than 760 companies. One of its many committees is the De- veloping Executives Group, formed in 2001 to encourage participation of mem- bers aged 35 years and under. The group has more than 600 members who participate in four special networking events each year, including a golf tournament and curling bonspiel. The developing exec- utives’ members also participate in regular CANS events, sometimes with their own focus. The CANS De-Icer is the association’s largest net- working event annually and hosts nearly 1,800 people. This year’s event was held April 12 at the Cunard Centre and included a lobster/roast beef dinner, mussel bar, door prizes and a 50/50 draw organized by the De- veloping Executives Group to raise funds for the IWK Health Centre Foundation. The draw raised $1,975. The group will present the cheque at the Annual IWK Telethon in early June and has plans to continue fundraising in 2013 - 14. The IWK Health Centre has evolved through its 100 year history but has al- ways stood at the forefront of patient- centered care in the region, today focusing on neonatal and pediatric inten- sive care, women’s health and mental health services for children and youth. Funds raised by the IWK Foundation support world- renowned researchers and the purchase of modernized technology and equipment. Together with donors, the IWK Foundation supported more than 16,000 inpatient visits and nearly 300,000 outpatient and emergency room visits in one year. The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Spring 2013 – 41