Philanthropy in Action

Philanthropy is often defined as the voluntary giving of time and financial resources to promote the well-being of human kind. If charity begins at home, philanthropy begins in the community through individuals, families, corporations and youth. The Philanthropist of the Year will recognize those who make philanthropy a part of their contribution to the community.

The Philanthropy in Action Award (formerly Philanthropist of the Year) began in 2010 to honour local individuals, families or businesses that embody the traits of a philanthropist and in doing so make our community a better place to live.

You can nominate someone for the Philanthropy in Action Award by clicking on the "Nominate a Philanthropist" button to the right from any page or by clicking here.

John Bliss and Dorothy McDade – 2012



John and Dorothy exemplify philanthropy in action with their commitment to the community. Both John and Dorothy have provided volunteer service on various boards and have held leadership roles on committees of the Y, UNB and the Forever Fund of the United Way, just to name a few.
John has had a long and honourable career in Engineering having worked for 19 years as the City Engineer. He was instrumental in improving the water quality for the city and his efforts resulted in the naming of the E. John Bliss Water Treatment Plant. John has won numerous awards for his work as both an engineer and as a community leader. He has served both his profession and his community in varying capacities from city councilor to president of the Association of Professional Engineers of New Brunswick.
John and Dorothy have been honoured by UNB with the Associated Alumni Award of Honour. Dorothy is also a Life Member of the New Brunswick Medical Society and the Canadian Medical Society and is a former member of the Board of Governors of UNB. Dorothy currently holds the role of President of the Fredericton Guild of Fiber Artists.


Bud and Peggy Bird – 2011



Mr. Bird served as co-chair of Your New Y Campaign, which raised an astonishing total of more than $5 million in community donations to the new building. As well, the Bird family made a significant financial gift to that campaign. It is in recognition of these contributions that the nomination for this award has been made by the Fredericton YMCA.
For a great many years Bud and Peggy Bird have also been very involved in providing volunteer activities and financial contributions to organizations such as the Miramichi Salmon Association, the Atlantic Salmon Federation and the TNB Theatre School. As well, to varying and lesser extents, they have provided support to the New Brunswick Foundation for the Arts, Nature Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, Jeunesses Musicales, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, the University of New Brunswick and other such worthy causes. The Birds have long been members and supporters of St. Paul’s United Church.
During his business career, Mr. Bird was the founder of J.W. Bird and Company Limited in 1958, with that company having since been sold to its senior managers. He also played a leading role in the establishment of Enbridge Gas New Brunswick in 1999.
As an active politician, he has served as Mayor of Fredericton, as provincial Minister of Natural Resources and as a federal Member of Parliament. In 2001 he was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada.


Edison and Lois Phillips – 2010



Edison & Lois Phillips have been residents of Fredericton for over 60 years. Edsion worked at Hartt Shoe Factory for 39 years and Lois worked for the Government of NB. They currently reside on the Fredericton’s northside.

The Phillips have been active in their community for many years and since their retirement, they have been even more involved in the community by donating their time and resources to organizations such as the Chalmers Hospital Auxiliary, Royal Canadian Legion, the Rusagonis Heritage Society and York Manor Nursing Home.

The Phillips’ involvement in the community goes beyond their work and commitment to organized charities; they also take a personal interest in helping individuals. Whether it be a senior in need of support, a young neighbour looking for companionship or an international student a long way from family, the Phillips step up to the plate and deliver.


Contact our office for details on nominating a philanthropist, becoming a sponsor or to purchase dinner tickets.