Executives from the Hardware/Homebuilding Industry recently honored Alan Barry, retired president and chief operating officer of Masco Corporation, with the 2008 Spirit of Life® Award, City of Hope’s top philanthropic honor.

Barry was celebrated at a golf outing and reception on Feb. 12 in Orlando, Fla.

More than 250 industry members attended the events to celebrate the kickoff of a yearlong fundraising campaign led by Barry, which is expected to raise nearly $3 million for City of Hope’s cancer research and treatment programs. Barry and his wife, Karen, personally donated $300,000 to the institution. In addition, organizers announced a $100,000 pledge from the Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation at the event.

“City of Hope is a remarkable institution, where the tenacity and dedication of their physicians and scientists to help save and improve the lives of patients dealing with cancer are inspiring,” Alan Barry said. “I am proud to be a part of this industry’s longstanding commitment to City of Hope and their work to move innovative discoveries into better treatments for cancer patients everywhere.”

Before his recent retirement, Barry had led Masco Corporation as president and chief operating officer since April 2003. Headquartered in Taylor, Mich., Masco Corporation is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of home improvement and building products, as well as a leading provider of services that include the installation of insulation and other building products.

In 1982, a small group of philanthropic leaders formed the Hardware/Homebuilding Industry with City of Hope. The group has grown to encompass a nationwide crosssection of manufacturers, retailers, distributors, manufacturers’ representatives and related members. Since its inception, the grouped has raised $150 million for research and treatment at City of Hope.