As one of Canada's most active charity organizations, the Canadian Red Cross depends on the physical and financial support of generous people across the country to ensure that all those who need help have the resources they need to start anew.
Each volunteer and donor not only creates a lasting impact on people affected by adversities - these compassionate individuals also leave behind their mark on the Canadian Red Cross.
Mourning the loss of a dedicated supporter
It's with great sadness that the Canadian Red Cross observes the passing of Kroum Pindoff.
"We have lost a great humanitarian, supporter and friend," said Conrad Sauvé, secretary general and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. "I speak for all of my colleagues at the Canadian Red Cross and in many of our sister societies around the world in expressing our sadness, as well as our gratitude for Mr. Pindoff's tireless support, which touched the lives of countless people in need over the past two decades."
While Mr. Pindoff was well-known as the founder of Music World Limited and Pindoff Record Sales Limited, the Canadian Red Cross remembers him better as a dedicated humanitarian who offered his avowed support to the Canadian Red Cross for many years.
Mr. Pindoff, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 16 at the age of 97, and his wife, Eva Pindoff, donated more than $20 million to the Canadian Red Cross, including to projects devoted to delivering assistance to women, children and elders impacted by war occurring in the former Yugoslavia.
In addition, following the 2004 earthquake and tsunami in South Asia, the couple contributed $5 million - the largest personal donation ever made to the Canadian Red Cross during a disaster appeal.
In 2008, the Pindoffs showed their commitment to the Canadian Red Cross' continuing efforts to respond to the health needs of mothers, children and seniors in countries like Africa, Nicaragua, Honduras, Haiti and Central Europe by giving $5 million toward the creation of the Millennium Fund.
Show your support
The generous contributions made by the Pindoffs to the Canadian Red Cross benefited the lives of many individuals in need and made it possible for the Canadian Red Cross to continue to provide assistance to those impacted by emergencies, disasters and other incidents both around the country and the world.
While the Canadian Red Cross grieves the loss of this long-time supporter, the memory of his dedication to the humanitarian mission of the Canadian Red Cross lives on in many of the organization's programs.
Mr. Pindoff leaves behind a legacy of compassion and giving - by becoming a fellow supporter of the Canadian Red Cross, you can also make a difference in someone else's life.
While single donations made online or at your local Canadian Red Cross office can be an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to the work of the Canadian Red Cross, by becoming a monthly donor, you can provide the Canadian Red Cross with a steady and consistent source of aid that could be crucial during times when a rapid response to a major emergency is necessary.