Baldwin Man Wins $5K for Local Charity

Brian Urban, a health educator, case management specialist and lifelong Baldwin Borough resident, has been named Cigna's Volunteer of the Year for his work with the Obediah Cole Foundation in Pittsburgh.

Obediah Cole provides free prostate cancer screenings and promotes early detection, education, awareness and support for those with the disease. It also promotes healthy living, nutrition and exercise.

According to a news release, Urban's passion for the cause is rooted in the tragic loss of his father to prostate cancer in 2005 when his father was just 55 years old. Brian was 19 at the time.

“My dad was so young when he died, and his death could have been prevented," Urban said. "Through my work with Obediah Cole promoting early detection and prevention, I honor his legacy by helping others avoid losing their loved ones.

"I'm grateful to Cigna for encouraging the spirit of volunteerism and supporting me in my efforts with the Cole Foundation."

Urban, who serves as the organization's Health Promotion Coordinator, was singled out for both his creative leadership and his effectiveness in bringing awareness and prostate health services to a wide variety of people within the Pittsburgh community.

"Brian's valuable contributions to Obediah Cole help us offer free prostate cancer screenings to thousands of men," said Jerry Livingston, vice president of Obediah Cole. "His contributions, energy and ideas are critical to the success we have had. To me, Brian is the future leadership of the organization."

Brian will be honored with a $5,000 donation to Obediah Cole from the Cigna Foundation and a $2,500 personal award from Cigna, which he will receive at a July 18 luncheon with Cigna CEO David Cordani at the company's Bloomfield, CT, headquarters.

The Cigna Volunteer of the Year is chosen by the Cigna Foundation—with input from the Points of Light HandsOn Network—from 12 volunteers recognized monthly throughout the year.

Urban is the same man who wants to revamp McAnulty Park in Baldwin. Read more about that topic here.