Pitching in: Designers George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg support Toronto’s LGBTQ community

George Yabu (left) and Glenn Pushelberg have donated to many causes around Toronto including Friends of Ruby Home, a transitional home for LGBTQ youth.Melissa Tait/The Globe and Mail

The organizers: George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg

The pitch: Donating to the Friends of Ruby Home, Casey House and other causes

Canadian designers George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg were in Rideau Hall several years ago waiting to receive their Order of Canada awards, when they heard about the accomplishments of the other recipients.

“There was a doctor getting one for cell research and some other scientists,” recalled Mr. Pushelberg. “We were doing some philanthropy at the time, and we looked at each other and said, ‘Gosh, you know, what we do is pick drapes for a living, and we should step it up’.”

Mr. Pushelberg and Mr. Yabu certainly do a lot more than select drapes. Their 45-year-old firm, Yabu Pushelberg, is world-renowned for its interior designs and the couple has worked in dozens of countries for brands such as Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton and many more.

As their business grew – they opened offices in Toronto and New York – the pair began focusing on philanthropy and they stayed true to their Canadian roots. “We were dabbling in philanthropy, but wanted to get more serious about it,” said Mr. Pushelberg.

They were soon involved in a host of causes aimed largely at people who face discrimination because of their sexuality or their origin. They set up scholarships at their alma mater, Toronto Metropolitan University, and got involved in mentorship programs. They became active fundraisers for Casey House, a specialty hospital in Toronto for people living with and at risk of HIV, and helped raised more than $500,000. They also got involved with the Art Gallery of Ontario to help it purchase gay, lesbian and transgender photography.

One of their most passionate projects involved the restoration of a house in Toronto which serves as Friends of Ruby Home, a shelter for LGBTQ youth. Mr. Yabu and Mr. Pushelberg raised money for the project and worked on the interior design, using principles they developed for commercial clients. “A teenager needs to live with respect. He doesn’t have to live with something that looks like a prison,” said Mr. Pushelberg.

The two plan to get involved in more charities and they hope to set an example for others to follow. “You can do grassroots things that require little effort,” said Mr. Pushelberg. “It’s really teaching people generosity, especially today with what’s happening out there.”