GCT Global Container Terminals Continues to Celebrate 50 Years of GCT Vanterm with Three-Year Partnership Supporting Mission Possible in Downtown Eastside
Vancouver, B.C. — [October 20, 2025] — In an ongoing recognition of the 50th anniversary of GCT Vanterm operations, Global Container Terminals (GCT) is proud to announce a new three-year community partnership with Mission Possible, a local non-profit organization transforming lives in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside through employment training, transitional jobs, and wraparound support. This commitment marks another positive step in the long-standing relationship between GCT and Mission Possible, building on previous support for the Gala, programming, and employment opportunities, both through GCT and within the broader Port Community.
This partnership reflects the values at the heart of GCT’s Global Commitment program, which supports local organizations creating lasting impact in the communities where GCT operates. Through this multi-year collaboration, GCT will provide ongoing support for Mission Possible’s programs that help individuals overcome barriers to employment and rebuild their confidence, skills, and sense of purpose.
“Vanterm’s 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past—it’s a chance to invest in the future of our community,” said Eric Waltz, President & CEO of GCT. “Mission Possible’s work restoring dignity through employment is both inspiring and essential. Our company has been based in East Vancouver for over 100 years, we’ve seen firsthand the impact Mission Possible is having and are honoured to support their mission to create opportunities that change lives.”
Since its founding in 1992, Mission Possible has supported hundreds of individuals through job readiness programs, mentorship, and transitional employment opportunities in social enterprise settings such as community maintenance, commercial cleaning, and landscaping. Their approach empowers participants with the tools they need to succeed in long-term employment and reconnect with their communities.
“Partnerships like this are what make lasting change possible. GCT’s multi-year commitment gives stability to our programs and allows us to offer ongoing hope to the people we serve. Together, we’re helping individuals overcome barriers, build skills, and find a pathway to stability in the Downtown Eastside.” – Matthew Smedley, Chief Empowerment Officer, Mission Possible.
GCT and Mission Possible are proud to reignite their long-standing relationship and shared commitment to improving the quality of life for people in our community and the Downtown Eastside.
Mission Possible, a low-no barrier program for unhoused and unemployed along the DTES at the GCT Vanterm Open House, September 27, 2025. A Mission Possible fundraiser gala and graduation ceremony will be at Vancouver Waterfront Fairmont Hotel on Nov. 26.
L-R: Jellina Duncan, Development Coordinator; Dave Goudie, Employment Readiness Coach; and Matt Smedley, Executive Director.
Photo: Chung Chow | Vancouver is Awesome
About GCT Global Container Terminals
GCT Global Container Terminals is a majority Canadian-owned operator at the Port of Vancouver and a key player in Canada’s Pacific Gateway. As one of the port’s largest employers and the operator of Canada’s largest container terminal, GCT has been part of the Vancouver waterfront since 1907, originally founded as Empire Stevedoring. Today, it operates two Green Marine-certified gateway terminals—GCT Vanterm in Vancouver and GCT Deltaport in Delta—handling over 3 million TEUs annually. Through its Global Commitment program, GCT supports local partnerships that promote sustainability, innovation, and community well-being.
Visit globalterminals.com/globalcommitment or follow @globalterminals to learn more.
About Mission Possible
Mission Possible is a Vancouver-based non-profit that empowers individuals facing poverty and barriers to employment with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to thrive. Through job readiness programs, transitional employment, and holistic support, Mission Possible provides hope, dignity, and purpose to those ready for change.
Learn more at: mission-possible.ca
Media Contact:
Jennifer Perih
media@globalterminals.com
604-267-5102