Frank Binder receives the 2024 Shelter Award for Philanthropist of the Year, presented by Lisa Gibbs, executive director, Royal LePage Shelter Foundation
Frank Binder, Broker/Owner of Royal LePage® Binder Real Estate, was recently named the Royal LePage® Shelter FoundationTM 2024 Philanthropist of the Year. For more than two decades, Frank and his team have been dedicated to supporting women and children fleeing intimate partner violence, making a lasting impact on the communities they serve. His unwavering commitment, personal generosity, and passion for giving back have earned him this well-deserved recognition.
“I was truly surprised to receive this award, knowing how many incredible individuals within the Royal LePage network give back to their communities in immeasurable ways,” said Frank. “I’ve never considered myself a philanthropist because much of my giving comes from a faith-based approach. I believe a giver seeks opportunities to give back, helping others with either time or funding. That is why for the past 20+ years, I have served on several benevolence committees for my church and national church foundation.”
A commitment to giving back
Frank and his team have long prioritized their charitable commitments, with a particular focus on the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. One of his brokerage’s flagship initiatives is an annual charity golf tournament. “We are hosting our 21st golf tournament this year and I’m happy to say that we’ve been able to raise an incredible amount of money for the Foundation through this event,” Frank shares.
Frank and his team also recently participated in the second annual Royal LePage Shelter Foundation Night Light Walk, presented by TD, where they rallied the Windsor community to join them for a 3km walk in support of their local women’s shelter, Hiatus House. By expanding their circle of supporters beyond the brokerage to their broader community, not only did they bring in significant charitable dollars, but they also raised a great deal of public awareness about Violence Against Women and the services and support available locally to those affected.
Beyond personal fundraising, Frank emphasizes the importance of inspiring others to take part. “I’ve always told my team that I wouldn’t ask them to take part in something that I wouldn’t do myself,” he says. “By leading through action, I have tried to cultivate a culture of giving to ensure that philanthropy is not just an individual effort but a collective mission.”
The heart behind his giving
Frank’s passion for supporting the Shelter Foundation is rooted in a personal experience that has deepened his commitment to the cause. Frank recalls a time when his sister arrived at his doorstep in distress, needing a safe place to turn. A sense of helplessness in that moment opened his eyes to the critical need for support systems for those experiencing domestic violence. Coincidentally, that same year, Hiatus House was founded in Windsor.
His involvement with the Foundation is driven by an appreciation for its national structure and support, which strengthens community-based initiatives to provide life-changing resources for those in need locally.
“One of the benefits of working with the Shelter Foundation is that we can ensure the funds raised will support shelters in the neighbourhoods where we live and work, providing them with critical resources that provide safety and support for women and children,” he added. “We are always looking to provide resources that are not government-funded. When a local shelter needed funds for the children’s play area in its park, we directed our fundraising efforts for those playground materials. Similarly, we’re currently supporting key interior spaces within Hiatus House, as well as their latest initiative to provide second-stage accommodation to help residents transition successfully from the shelter into permanent and stable homes.”
Encouraging others to get involved
For Frank, philanthropy is also about showing up and taking action. His advice to fellow Royal LePagers is simple: get involved. “There is no experience quite like volunteerism. Once you do it, you’ll be hooked,” he said. “Anyone can make a difference, whether through fundraising, volunteering or simply spreading awareness about the importance of the cause.”
As Frank and his team continue their charitable efforts, his leadership serves as a powerful example of the impact that consistent dedication and generosity can have. His work with the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation is not just about fundraising – it’s about fostering a culture of compassion and inspiring others to do the same.
The power of small acts of kindness
Reflecting on his journey of giving, Frank believes that even the smallest actions can have ripple effects. Whether it’s organizing a fundraiser, encouraging a team to participate, or making a personal contribution – every effort counts toward creating safer communities for those in need.
This sentiment reminds Frank of a story from his late grandfather. “Sometimes, small acts of kindness come full circle in the most unexpected ways. Such was the case for my Opa. During World War II, he was imprisoned for staying true to his Christian beliefs and, in turn, refusing to fight for Germany. Life in prison was harsh, and each day, prisoners were removed from their cells, never to return.
One morning, my Opa heard his name and feared the worst. But as he stepped forward, a soldier approached him and asked, ‘Herr Binder?’ My Opa nodded. ‘From Nova Pasua?’ Again, he nodded. The soldier then said, ‘You were the miller at the flour mill, weren’t you?’
When my Opa confirmed, the soldier looked at him and said, ‘When my family had nothing to eat in Nova Pasua, you gave us bread. As long as I am calling names in this prison, you will be safe.’ Perhaps it was a coincidence, but I like to believe it was a testament to how even the smallest gestures of kindness can leave a lasting impact, sometimes in ways we never expect.”
How you can make a difference
As a Royal LePager, you too can make a difference for women and children escaping intimate partner violence in your community. By becoming a Commission Donor, you’ll help make home a safe place for everyone each time you help a client buy or sell a home.
Get started today at rlp.ca/commission-donor.
