A couple of leaders who make a big difference
“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”
That quote from cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead rang true at an industry gathering hosted by the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) last week, where we honoured two leaders who make a huge difference in the lives of many.
At our event, The Party for Humanity, we celebrated BILD chairman Paul Golini Jr., who stepped into the volunteer position two years ago and has shown unwavering commitment and dedication to the industry.
In just a few weeks, Golini will give a state-of-the-association speech at our annual general meeting and it will be his last official duty as chairman. In addition to providing leadership to the board of directors over the last two years, Paul has been at the table for tough public policy discussions and he has been the voice of the building, land development and professional renovation industry, as well as the future residents of the GTA.
Golini has shared BILD’s story on numerous television and radio programs and in countless print publications. Among his many contributions, he was a driving force behind our newest fundraiser, Stephen’s Ride for Humanity, and he helped make it successful for the second year this past September.
Golini will often say that one of BILD’s proudest achievements is the community partnership it shares with Habitat for Humanity Toronto.
Since 2003, the industry has raised more than $535,000 for Habitat and has helped eight families end the cycle of poverty and move into a brand new home. We are very proud of our partnership because we’re both in the same business of providing shelter and we are both important advocates of affordable homeownership.
In addition to celebrating Golini at this year’s Party for Humanity, I took the opportunity to thank Habitat’s CEO Neil Hetherington for his passion, partnership and commitment to affordable housing. Hetherington announced earlier in the week that he would be leaving Toronto to accept a position with Habitat for Humanity in New York City. While we are sad to see him go, we know his expertise is really needed there right now. Giving back is important to our industry and we have leaders that inspire us to do more every year. This year, BILD members have gone above and beyond expectations, volunteering their time and fundraising in support of Habitat. The party alone raised more than $30,000 and the occasion gave us an opportunity to pause and say thanks. Bryan Tuckey is the president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association ( bildgta.ca) and can be found on Twitter @bildgta, Facebook, YouTube and BILD’s blog ( bildblogs.ca).