London Philanthropist Wayne Dunn recipient of first Order of London award

London Philanthropist Wayne Dunn recipient of first Order of London award. CTV London's Brent Lale reports.

Wayne Dunn’s charity contributions in London are unmatched.

It’s why he was been named the first ever recipient of the Order of London.

“Wayne’s legacy belongs in the story of London, and today we are making sure it always will,” said Josh Morgan, London’s mayor.

Dunn held back tears on stage as friends, business colleagues, and politicians sang his praises.

“I just... I’m so honoured,” said Dunn.

“There’s no question about it, I’m thankful, but I’m so surprised.”

As part of London’s Bicentennial celebrations, the city has created this recognition.

The honour was presented to Dunn on Dundas Place during the opening ceremony of the Canada Day celebrations.

“Wayne Dunn has contributed to the city in so many different ways,” said Morgan.

“Whether it’s leadership in business or philanthropy even in the face of tragedy. With the death of his daughter, he started a run raising $1.6 million for cancer research. He’s just contributed to this city in so many ways including the Business Cares Food Drive. He’s just such a role model for our community.”

His friend and former colleague at the London Chamber of Commerce Gerry Macartney spoke about Dunn’s contributions.

“It’s really hard for me to wrap my head around all the various causes and organizations that Wayne is so generously helped, and the accolades he’s earned,” said Macartney.

“27 years leading the Business Cares Food Drive, raising millions of dollars and more food than Loblaws sells in a year. The founder of the Sunshine Foundation Golf Classic, culminating in a $1.3 million county Heritage Stephenson Hunt Endowment for children with severe disabilities. He’s a recipient of the Governor General’s Sovereign Medal for volunteers and a member of Western’s Senate. He’s a board member of Junior Achievement and the past chair of the London Hunt Club. A recipient of the mayor’s 2020 Honor List, a member of Saint Joseph’s Foundation Board, and a laureate in the London Business Hall of Fame. More recently, he’s the founder of the done with cancer run, raising over $1.6 million for brain tumor research.”

He’s helped so many people including thousands of Londoners each month through the London Food Bank with his charity drive.

“They bring in about 1-million pounds worth of food during that year and it makes a huge difference to us,” said Glen Pearson, co-chair of the London Food Bank.

“It’s just something about the characteristics of that man. I think he’s put his fingerprints on what the needs are in London, and he’s put his identity on how he believes it should be met and the two came together.”

Macartney describes Dunn as a humble man who “does it all without any thanks.”

“The guy just never stops,” added Macartney

“He’s got a big heart. I can’t think of a Londoner that’s done more for more people than Wayne Dunn.”

Even on his special day, Dunn wanted to give credit to everyone around him.

“I’ve had an army of people,” said Dunn.

“Whether whatever committee or somebody out at a grocery store actually helping me. It’s all of the people around me that have really got me to where I am right now.”