Two Canadians were recognized with international awards at the recent Coldwell Banker international conference, the 2016 Generation Blue Experience. The winners were nominated by their peers and selected from approximately 84,000 professionals affiliated with the Coldwell Banker network worldwide.
Colin Hartigan, owner of Coldwell Banker Fort McMurray, in Fort McMurray, Alta. was given the Chandler Barton Spirit Award. Named after Chandler Barton, president of Coldwell Banker Real Estate from 1989 to 1996, this accolade honours his “can do” attitude .
Hartigan earned the award for his inspiring efforts during the Fort McMurray wildfire and its aftermath. Demonstrating the “can do” spirit that previously ranked him as Canada’s top Coldwell Banker agent, Hartigan tirelessly rebuilt his brokerage operations and devoted his personal and business resources to help displaced residents in the ravaged community, the company says. Hartigan used his own home to house firefighters who came from across North America and around the world to battle the blaze.
“My proudest accomplishment for the year, which is ongoing today, is my role as the Community Chair for the 2016 Community Campaign for the United Way of Fort McMurray to raise $8 million,” says Hartigan. “I feel its all about attitude and passion to find success and surrounding myself with excellent character type people.”
Helene Hutchings
Helene Hutchings, sales representative with Coldwell Banker First Ottawa Realty in Stittsville, Ont. received the Coldwell Banker Hero of the Year Award. This annual award is presented to an individual, office or company affiliated with the brand who strengthens their community through exceptional charitable efforts.
Hutchings dedicates countless hours to support children with cancer through her organization, Hair Donation Ottawa. She founded the non-profit in 2011 and since then it has raised more than $370,000 for the Ottawa Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario for Viral Oncolytic Research. More than 15,000 inches of hair has gone towards the manufacture of free wigs for children with hair loss in the Ottawa region. Hutchings was inspired to start the non-profit after she overcame her own battle with cancer in 2010.
“Hair Donation Ottawa wouldn’t be possible and as successful as it is today without the tremendous support from our volunteers who are equally as passionate about the cause as I am,” Hutchings says. “I am honoured to receive this award and will continue to bring strength, kindness and service to my community.”
