2001 Award Recipients

Mr. George Fierheller

George Fierheller's exceptional volunteer and philanthropic activities span mare than three decades. He is most likely the only Canadian who has chaired United Way Campaigns in three cities: Ottawa in 1971; Vancouver in 1981; and Toronto in 1991. In each of those cities he contributed his time, leadership qualities and financial support to other organizations as well. He is a member of the National Arts Centre Executive Committee; was a Director of the Vancouver Opera and a Trustee of the Vancouver Hospital Foundation; and currently is Chair of the Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre Capital Campaign.

After charing the United Way Campaign in Toronto, Mr. Fierheller served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and is now an active member of the Past Chair's Group and key volunteer on the united Way's Major Individual Gifts Committee. He gives generously of his financial resources: at United Way, he was one of the first to make a planned gift; he was a founding donor when the endowment was launched; and all the while he kept up his generous annual gifts.

He is always ready to volunteer for difficult calls and to serve as an eloquent and passionate champion. His speeches on volunteerism are legendary. Each time he talks, more individuals follow his example and give to their community.

When George Fierheller chaired the Trinity College Spirit Leadership Capital Campaign, in every area - funds raised, volunteers recruited, new donors found, larger gifts made - expectations were exceeded. He involved himself in every aspect of fundraising and set an example of how volunteers, donors and staff should be inspired, motivated and recognized throughout a campaign. He was an active spokesperson for the Trinity College campaign at every possible opportunity and understands the importance of teamwork. He always broadcast a success so that others were motivated to do more.

He serves on a number of boards including: Extendicare Inc., Rogers AT&T Wireless, GBC North America Growth Fund Inc., Sierra Systems Group Inc., and Télésystem International Wireless Inc. He currently chairs the Greater Toronto Marketing Alliance and is a Director of Ontario Exports Inc. and an Honourary Director of Smart Toronto.

Mr. Fierheller has nominated by the United Way of Greater Toronto and Trinity College, University of Toronto.