Congratulaions are due to Dave Toycen, the hard working CEO of World Vision Canada.
Tomorrow he will be recognized for his lifetime of hard work and compassion by being appointed to the Order of Ontario. The ceremony will be taking place at Queen's Park (the parliament of Ontario) at 1 pm on January 27th. The award is Ontario's highest honour and is bestowed upon people who have made an outstanding contribution to society.
Dave has worked for World Vision for the 35 years, the past 14 as President and CEO. In the last 14 years, with him at the helm, Canadian sponsorship of children around the world has gone from 187,000 to a staggering 500,000.
Being the President and CEO of World Vision Canada is a very high profile position. While he is in contact with government leaders around the world as well as the United Nations, he still is a very approachable and humble man. He is dedicated to improving the conditions for children across the globe. He is a very powerful advocate and tireless worker for this cause.
Mr. Toycen's book, The Power of Generosity, which was published in 2004, gives readers an insight into the things that motivate him. It challenges readers to become more aware of the human condition and to live life more generously.
In response to the news of his award, Dave Toycen had this to say;
It's truly an honour to receive the Order of Ontario. This award is a strong affirmation of World Vision's 60 years of service to children, families and communities living in poverty. I share the award with our supporters, who bring hope and healing to millions of children across the globe. It's my pledge to continue to give these children a voice."
I am very proud of my association with World Vision Canada, and it's safe to say that Dave Toycen is a very big reason why it remains such a vital organization in the lives of so many people. He provides the hard working leadership that trickles down through the entire organization.