Over its 26 years, Movie Mondays saw thousands of people stream through the lecture theatre of the Eric Martin Pavilion at Royal Jubilee Hospital.
Bruce Saunders first started showing films at Victoria’s psychiatric centre while he was a patient in 1993 and cultivated community and mental health support through film, food and compassion over the decades since.
That dedication earned him a 2025 Medal of Good Citizenship, to be presented by the province in late fall.
“His humility and dedication continue to nourish and inspire his community,” says the provincial release announcing his medal.
The weekly film series saw more than 1,550 events, welcoming an estimated 100,000 attendees. The program created a safe, stigma-free space for patients, families and the public to connect and learn. It only ended because of a global pandemic.
Saunders was among the 11 individuals and organizations recognized in 2023 when the Shelbourne Community Kitchen unveiled its wall of appreciation. As garden lead at the Saanich charity, he helped grow more than 30,000 pounds of produce, including 10,000 pounds in 2024, feeding more than 1,600 people. He also forged partnerships, mobilized volunteers and maximized impact on a shoestring budget.
Beyond the garden, Saunders volunteers with Red Cedar Cafe, a non-profit meal program fuelled by volunteers and community, and with Community Food Support, delivers groceries to vulnerable residents, and mentors others with lived experience.
Nominations for the Medal of Good Citizenship are accepted year-round. Any current or former long-term resident of B.C. is eligible to be nominated. Youth and posthumous nominations are welcome.
