ORT Toronto Law and Laughter Gala Honours Edward Greenspan for his Accomplishments In and Out of the Courtroom.
November 1st, 2010, Toronto ON
When 325 guests honored world-renowned lawyer and philanthropist Edward Greenspan at ORT Toronto's Fifth annual Hero's Gala, Law and Laughter, October 27th, over $300 thousand was raised for the ORT Edward L. Greenspan Scholarship Fund to provide scholarships and bursaries to needy students in Ontario.
Funds were also dedicated to the World ORT Smart Class Project that has so far installed 415 Smart Boards in depressed areas in 38 cities in Israel, including disabled and Israeli-Arab children. World ORT hopes to expand this project to many more communities.
Ontario Lieutenant Governor David C. Onley opened the evening and congratulated ORT for its efforts to enable disadvantaged and disabled students in over 100 countries around the world to be self sufficient by Educating for Life through vocational and technological training.
"Our vision for ORT is Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, one student at a time...to give students the best possible preparation for their future," said ORT Toronto President Florence Weinstock.
Mr. Greenspan was introduced by legendary American lawyer, F. Lee Bailey, who remarked on Greenspan's dedication as a teacher, defense lawyer and successful advocate to abolish the death penalty in Canada. The honoree then regaled the audience with details of some of the lighter episodes in his illustrious law career.
On a serious note, Greenspan described his admiration for ORT. He credited his wife Suzy, for his interest in ORT. While growing up in Morocco her family was actively involved with the ORT school in Casablanca that drew residential students from the hinterlands, and provided them with the education and skills necessary to improve their lives.
Avery Saltzman, well known Canadian actor and director, provided a deft, humorous touch as Master of Ceremonies. Barry Avrich and Ralph Lean co-chaired the glittering Gala. Robert Lantos and Ellis Jacob were honorary Chairmen. Leroy Emmanuel and the Miracles provided the musical entertainment. Guests also bid on special silent auction items like a Broadway weekend package for two in New York and V.I.P. tickets to the Grammy Awards.
Established in 1880, ORT is one of the world's largest non governmental education and training organizations. This year, ORT's network of schools in Africa, Russia, Latin America and elsewhere will benefit over 300 thousand people.
