Tom Cochrane honoured as a musician and humanitarian

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 25, 2016 /CNW/ - With the upcoming 25^th anniversary rerelease of the iconic album Mad, Mad World, World Vision celebrated Tom Cochrane and his incredible career as a musician and a humanitarian. At an event attended by hundreds, Cochrane was honoured for his outstanding contribution to helping children around the world.

The event featured a special premier screening of 25 Years on The Highway, a documentary on Cochrane's humanitarian efforts, an award presentation from World Vision, and a special acoustic performance.

Cochrane remains one of the most influential musicians in Canada, and is an inspiration and mentor to many.   

A tireless champion for children, his hit song Life is a Highway was inspired by his travels with World Vision in 1989 to Mozambique.  It has become one of the best-loved and most recognizable Canadian songs, and an important part of our pop culture.  He has been on many trips with World Vision, most recently visiting Syrian refugee camps in 2016.

World Vision celebrates the generosity and advocacy of this true partner for children around the world.  A passionate and outspoken champion for children, Cochrane's work is an inspiration as he demonstrates how one person can create change. 

Quotes:

"Life Is a Highway was a pep talk to myself that you can't change the world as a single individual in one fell swoop, but you can spread some goodwill and love along the way. After the trip to Mozambique I felt a heaviness about what I couldn't do. It was draining and I was exhausted in every sense of the word.  Working on this song really pulled me out of that place and helped me focus on the truth that you need to keep your eye on the road ahead, and focus on the good you can do, and that this will make a difference. Out of a dark place, ironically, came one of my most positive songs."

–Tom Cochrane

"Mad Mad World came out only a few months after I started at World Vision--and so I can't remember a time without Tom Cochrane as a key partner. We're so pleased he's experienced such artistic success and are grateful for his enduring commitment to the world's most vulnerable children through his relationship with World Vision."

- Michael Messenger, President & CEO, World Vision Canada

Quick Facts:

• This rerelease celebrates Tom Cochrane's influential career as a musician and his humanitarian efforts
• Cochrane is World Vision's longest-serving ambassador,  having worked with the organization since 1989, World Vision greatly appreciates his inspirational dedication to improving the lives of children
• You don't need to be a superstar to make an impact.  Generosity has a ripple-effect and anyone can make a difference. 

Media assets:
High-res images and video available here

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/pgbw0ep60g6i5me/AAAw3w5OWxTp4qAfiPTpO8fAa?dl=0.

What Canadians can do:

Celebrate the difference Cochrane has made in the world by following @WorldVisionCan on Twitter or Instagram, liking World Vision on Facebook, and sharing the stories we are telling about Tom's life this week.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development, and advocacy organization working to create lasting change in the lives of children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, World Vision is dedicated to working with the world's most vulnerable people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. Visit our News Centre at worldvision.ca

SOURCE World Vision Canada

Image with caption: "World Vision presents Tom Cochrane with an award to recognize a partnership that has lasted a lifetime. (CNW Group/World Vision Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20161025_C2432_PHOTO_EN_803316.jpg

For interviews contact: Sarah Bartley - 905-565-6200 ext. 4054 or [email protected]