2000 Award Recipients

Mr. & Mrs. Joey & Toby Tanenbaum

The names Joey & Toby Tanenbaum are synonymous with support for the arts, sciences, hospitals, universities and museums both at home and in Israel.

In 1985, Joey and Toby recognized that psychiatric research was tremendously underfunded. Joey was elected to the Board of Directors of the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation (CPRF) and in 1990, he and Toby made a pledge of $500,000 to be used for an annual award to recognize a distinguished scientist for his/her work in schizophrenia research. They had the courage to tackle an issue with many challenges and raise the awareness of the prevalence of mental illness and the great need to encourage and support our young Canadian researchers.

In 1999, the Tanenbaums' gift of $525,000 to the Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation supported the establishment of the Fleck / Tanenbaum Chair in Prostatic Disease. Joey also supported the brachytherapy program of Canada's first multi-faceted Prostate Centre at Princess Margaret hospital, and played a leading role as a volunteer for "The Campaign for Everyman."

The Art Gallery of Ontario has been the privileged beneficiary of the Tanenbaum family's charitable giving for more than 30 years. The Tanenbaums' sustained commitment to the arts is driven by a deep desire to bring great works of art to the public, as exemplified by their donation of the Gian Lorenzo Bernini sculpture in 1998, one of the most significant works of art ever given to a Canadian art museum. Dr. Tanenbaum has also supported the gallery through his impressive contributions at the board level, with the distinction of having served as the Gallery's first Chairman.

Joey and Toby maintain stalwart support as volunteers for the organizations they serve. Joey continues as a director of several charities where he provides leadership, expertise and encouragement. The Tanebaums are regularly seen at charity events inspiring others with their enthusiasm, commitment and generosity.

The Tanenbaums were nominated jointly by the Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation, The princess Margaret Hospital Foundation and The Art Galley of Ontario.