Victoria’s Gordy Dodd, of local business Dodd’s Furniture and Mattress, is being honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.
The award is in recognition of Gordy’s numerous ventures and initiatives, both in business and philanthropy.
“Gordy’s story deserves to be told. Anyone who has spent time in our city knows who Gordy is, has seen him on TV and recognized his talent for promotion,” said Al Hasham, Chair of the Board of Governors.
”But there’s so much more to Gordy. He cares so much about his community and has taken action to improve the lives of many, many people.”
Gordy first immigrated to Canada in 1967, and 10 years later, started his first cozy furniture store in downtown Victoria.
42 years later, Dodd’s Furniture and Mattress has grown to become Vancouver Island’s largest independent furniture retailer, with locations in Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River.
Philanthropy
Forever looking out for his neighbours, Gordy has been hosting annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for people in need since 1998.
To celebrate the dinner’s 20th year, the furniture retailer expanded their charitable meal program to include Nanaimo and Campbell River.
Last year, more than 4,000 people in need on the island were able to enjoy a holiday feast thanks to Gordy and his team.
“I just want people to (think about the fact) we live in a rich country, and most people are doing pretty good. If we all just do a little bit we can solve a lot of problems,” Gordy told The Chamber.
“Dodd says he hopes his efforts inspire others to be grateful for having an opportunity to live a good life, and the chance to make a positive difference,” said Al Hasham.
Victorians on Reddit also seem to approve of Gordy’s award.
“Oh man, this dudes ads were always lit af,” said Reddit user ‘InvincibleChip’.
“For his philanthropy alone, he should at least get the Order of BC,” said user ‘notthatcbailey’.
“I love him! My mom recently moved to the Island and thinks he’s hilarious too,” said ‘keepwarm’. “Last year I surprised her with a signed copy of one of his newspaper ads.”
“He was very kind to sign it for me!”
