$2.3M for charity from gala

RANDALL MANG

More than a year in the making, the celebration of Joe Segal’s colorful life and achievements promised a once-in-a-lifetime experience – and delivered beyond expectations, delighting its audience and raising awareness and $2.3 million for its charitable beneficiary, Coast Mental Health.

The gala at the Vancouver Convention Centre on June 4 drew more than 1,500 guests who gave generously and donned black tie, gowns and miniature medals in an overwhelming show of support for Segal and Coast Mental Health. The event, which the 126-year-old Vancouver Board of Trade administered, now ranks as the highest-drawing function of its kind in Vancouver’s history.

Segal’s youngest son Lorne spearheaded the initiative, which he says was born of “a widespread and genuine desire to see a tribute to my father, a man whose entrepreneurship and philanthropy has positively influenced Vancouver’s development for more than 60 years.”

Initially shying from the spotlight, Joe Segal agreed to the fête on condition that it would benefit charity, in this case, Coast Mental Health, a cause close to his heart for more than 10 years. “We celebrated an extraordinary life and helped a charity that does so much for this city’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Lorne Segal. “We couldn’t have done it without everyone who donated, purchased sponsorships, bought tickets and tables and provided media and outreach support – it has been overwhelming.”

Serving as gala chair, Lorne Segal played an instrumental role in virtually all aspects of the production – from leading the organizing committee and driving fundraising efforts to collaborating on the stage show with longtime friend Shel Piercy of Infinity Films Entertainment. Joined by executive producer Martin van Keken of MVKA Productions, the team delivered a Broadway-style show unlike anything ever before seen in Vancouver. The positive reviews, including the outpouring from the Jewish community following the gala, has been heartwarming.

Shirley Barnett, a lifelong Segal family friend whose personal charitable work with Joe Segal includes their early collaboration on the formation of the Hebrew Free Loan Society, said, “My husband was the president of Variety Club International, and we attended galas around the world for over 20 years. Joe’s ranks among the top three I’ve seen anywhere, including productions in London, England, produced by the great Eric Morley.”

Describing the event as having “captured the essence of each momentous stage of an astounding man’s life with humor, integrity and a whole lot of heart,” community member Jody Dales said, “I know with certainty that I will never experience an evening like it again. To say that it was magnificent is an understatement.”

Among the evening’s highlights, guests were treated to a multimedia portrayal of Segal’s life played out on four massive video screens and through song, dance and theatrical stage routines. The show’s opening segments included a lively overture dedicated to highlights from Segal’s life, as well as a musical salute to his landmark takeover of Zellers in the 1970s. Comedy skits included cheeky portrayals of prominent Vancouverites such as Jimmy Pattison, Chip Wilson and Gordon Campbell.

A live orchestra provided the evening’s musical backdrop. Surprise headliner Paul Anka performed two renditions of his iconic song “My Way.” After singing the song in its original format, Anka serenaded the couple again, this time in a sentimental version custom-tailored for them.

Other emotional moments included a commemoration from the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which presented Segal with the Medal of Remembrance. Recognizing Segal’s involvement as a member of the Canadian Forces’ Calgary Highlanders regiment in the liberation of the Netherlands in the Second World War, the ceremony moved many to tears.

Several high-profile guests offered special remarks during the evening, including Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, who officially proclaimed June 4 as Joe Segal Day.

In his keynote address, Lorne Segal provided humorous and touching insight into his family’s humble beginnings, reflecting on his father’s business drive and dedication to his family, as well as his mother’s pivotal role in raising the couple’s four children and providing the family with its solid and loving foundation.

Reflecting on the evening, lawyer Josephine Nadel, who sits on several charitable boards, said, “The dinner was unforgettable. It depicted every quality that is important – the individual, family, community, country – striving and achievement and giving back. An amazing celebration of a story of triumph. Kol hakavod!”

Coast Mental Health Foundation chief executive officer Britt Andersen said his organization was honored to be the beneficiary. “The funds contributed by the generous sponsors and guests will allow us to reach even more individuals with mental illness, and will provide tangible and immediate benefits to people who are direly in need of Coast’s help.”

Community member Hana Wosk said the evening “was an opportunity for everyone present to be re-inspired to continue to do our very best to dedicate ourselves to tikkun olam.”

In his closing remarks, Joe Segal personally highlighted the evening’s charitable bottom line: “When you leave tonight, feel good that you’ve helped someone, maybe even saved a life. Tonight we have impacted others, creating a ripple of awareness and compassion.”

Randall Mang is a Vancouver-based communications consultant and freelance writer. His company, Randall Anthony Communications, is Canada’s largest supplier of special features to the Globe and Mail.

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