William K. and Mary Jo Robbins.

“We make a living by what we get,

but we make a life by what we give.”

These famous words, first spoken by British statesman Winston Churchill, were quoted by Foundation President and CEO Andrew Otway to describe the philanthropy of Bill and Mary Jo Robbins.

Residents of Houston, Texas, Bill and Mary Jo Robbins have been longtime contributors to the Royal Alexandra Hospital through the Robbins Family Foundation, though the couple’s most recent gift of $5 million was a special cause to celebrate.

Not only was this gift the largest in the Foundation’s—and Capital Health’s—history, it was given to cover a holistic approach to healing, including body, mind, and soul. From a new state-of-the-art learning centre where physicians and clinical staff can access new technologies, to professional lecture series for the sharing of new information, to a chapel, offering a place of solace and comfort.

As a result of their generosity, Capital Health and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation jointly announced the naming of Capital Health’s newest building the Robbins Pavilion.

When told of the naming, the Robbins were truly honoured—and humbled. Giving, they say, is what truly brings them their greatest joy. The Robbins have said, on more than one occasion, that they consider themselves fortunate and blessed in business, and, using faith as their guide, pass those blessings on to others—not just in Edmonton, but around the world.

“We have learned that you cannot out-give God,” said Bill Robbins, recently.  “Our passion in giving is oriented to missions, education, health and in the arts and sciences. There is no way a distinction in value or contribution can be drawn between educators, professionals, laborers, etc. and their individual, respective contributions to our society. However, it is clearly evident in these times that there is a tremendous need for nurses, healthcare workers, doctors and supporting personnel, as well as needs to support research.”

Mr. Robbins has enjoyed a wide and varied career. A Korean war veteran, he is a member of the State Bar of Texas and New York, having received degrees in both Law and Arts from Baylor University. He’s traveled extensively throughout the world while working as an attorney for Humble Oil and Refining Company and as a director with Union Carbide Corporation.

Mrs. Mary Jo Robbins practiced for many years as a registered nurse, nursing director, and was CEO for the Houston Kidney Centre.

Currently, Mr. Robbins is Chairman and CEO of North American Corp., a firm that focuses primarily on consulting and investments. Mrs. Robbins is vice-president of North American Corp.