2023 Rix Awards presented to outstanding community members
For Immediate Release
Friday, Apr. 21, 2023
VANCOUVER, B.C. — Last night, the prestigious Rix Awards for 2023 were presented to two remarkable individuals and one iconic local organization for their exceptional contributions to the community.
The 2023 Rix Award for Engaged Community Citizenship was presented to Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia, C.M., O.B.C., LL.D. (HON.) and Sergio Cocchia, OBC., LL.D. (HON.), in recognition of their passion for building positive relationships that advance economic and social good. Their philanthropic and fundraising efforts through the Lisogar-Cocchia Family Foundation and the Pacific Autism Family Network have raised over $50 million for autistic and neurodiverse children, adults and their families across Canada.
The 2023 Rix Award for Engaged Corporate Citizenship went to White Spot in honour of their community engagement and support for local businesses. White Spot continues to be the only restaurant in British Columbia to have COR WorkSafe certification, exemplifying the organization’s commitment to the safety of its employees. Throughout the community, they hold a distinguished track record of supporting youth arts programs and countless local charities and non-profit organizations.
In addition to the presentation of the 2023 Rix Awards, the gala also included a ceremony to induct the immediate past Chair of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, Kirsten Sutton, ICD.D, 2021-22 Chair, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, into the esteemed Council of Governors.
Quotes:
“Our 2023 honourees are outstanding and inspirational examples of what it means to be a volunteer, advocate, philanthropist, community leader, visionary, and so much more. This recognition is so well deserved and important for our community to acknowledge. We are fortunate to be recognizing some incredible community and business leaders.” – Juggy Sihota-Chahil, Gala Chair, Chief Growth Officer, TELUS Health
“The 2023 Rix Awards recipients are living proof of the power of community and determination. It is a privilege to be able to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments and unwavering commitment to excellence of our honourees who inspire and drive positive change within our community.” – Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
About the Rix Awards
The Rix Awards are a special initiative of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, presented in honour of the late Dr. Don Rix, who served as the 2008-09 Chair of The Vancouver Board of Trade. The award recipients are chosen each year by a special selection committee, based on a number of criteria, and are presented at the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade's annual Governors' Gala each spring.
The Rix Award for Engaged Community Citizenship is presented to an individual who applies their exceptional skills, talents and drive to making a positive impact in society. Hallmark characteristics of community citizenship include trust, purpose, connectedness, leadership, social capital, passion, empathy, ethics, and responsibility.
The Rix Award for Engaged Corporate Citizenship is presented to an enterprise that demonstrates, both in policy and practice, the highest standards of stewardship towards the long-term well-being of customers, employees, owners, business partners, the environment and the broader community.
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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.
Media contact:
Victor Young
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade 604-640-5450 || media@boardoftrade.com