Friday August 10th I was graciously invited by the fantastic people at Canuck Place (CEO Filomena Nalewajek and major gifts liaison Jana Walker) to attend the lunch in honour of Brian Burke's recent Stanley cup championship, but most importantly his philanthropic dedication to Canuck Place Children's Hospice.
After Brian's 30 minute introduction by Peter Twist, former strength and conditioning coach of the Canucks (or as Burke called it-an infomercial for Twist's own company), the main attraction took the podium. His poise, presence and wicked direct sense of humour took over. Peppered with personal anecdotes of the who's who of the NHL, his main topics where about Leadership, Followership, and Giving Back. Even though Burke's reign over the Canucks ended some years ago, his involvement in Canuck Place continues. Furthermore, his legacy and mandate of "if you're going to be making a million playing for the Canucks, you're going to give back to the community" lives on under the leadership of his protégé Dave Nonis.
As his speech wrapped up, burke left time for some Q&A and over $12,500 was raised for Canuck Place by auctioning off various sports related packages donated by some generous sponsors. Lastly, Canuck Place CEO Filomena honoured Brian Burke with a Canuck Place Inner Circle of Champions tartan tie.
It was a wonderful afternoon for a great cause.
Blog by Ian Watt of Century 21 - Intown Realty (Yaletown Vancouver)