Bill Blair joins Scarborough Hospital Foundation board of directors

WATCH ABOVE: Sound of bagpipes lead farewell march for outgoing Chief Bill Blair

TORONTO — Outgoing Toronto police Chief Bill Blair will be keeping busy on the Scarborough Hospital Foundation‘s board of directors.

The new gig was announced as Blair was being feted at the police headquarters on his final day, following after a large gala in his honour Thursday night.

The foundation raises funds for building projects and medical equipment at the Scarborough Hospital. It is a registered charity that heavily relies on volunteers and donors.

“I am from Scarborough and raised my children here,” said Blair a statement. “The Scarborough Hospital has always been there for my family, and I am very pleased to have the opportunity to help the hospital continue to grow and serve the people of my community.”

Blair will officially retire as Toronto Police Service’s chief on Saturday, a role he’s held since 2005. He has been with the service for 35 years, starting as a beat cop in downtown Toronto.

Mark Saunders will take over as chief on Sunday.

“The foundation plays a key role in helping to tell the stories that will bring the hospital and the community together in a way that will help facilitate the best health care for our global community,” said TSHF chair Paul Torrie.  “When such distinguished individuals like Chief Blair step forward to support the hospital and join our team, it better enables us to not only tell that story but to also raise the necessary funds to ensure our patients and community continue to receive the best quality care close to home.”