Bidleman steps down as United Way president to lead board for Railroad Museum

Photo by Ginny Kropf: George Bidleman of Medina holds a plaque presented to him by United Way of Orleans County after he stepped down as president of the board.

MEDINA – George Bidleman believes in giving back to the community which has given and continues to give to him.

An owner of car dealerships in Orleans County and one in Auburn, Bidleman is being honored by United Way of Orleans County for serving as its board president for the past two years.

He recently stepped down from that position and to become president of the board of the Medina Railroad Museum.

Serving the Railroad Museum is nothing new to Bidleman who was its president several years ago and brought it out of debt into the black.

Dean Bellack, director of United Way of Orleans County, recently presented Bidleman with a plaque for his support of the agency.

“George Bidleman’s help, generosity and friendship has been invaluable to Orleans County United Way,” Bellack said.  “George donated office space for our office, which we still occupy. In addition, Orleans Ford raised an additional $9,000 for us last year, on top of personal and workplace donations in their ‘Raising of the Green’ promotion. The ads seen during the last year for digital literacy and the United Way have also been through the generosity of George and his dealerships.”

Bidleman personally and quietly supports not just the United Way, but other charities which touch his heart, Bellack said.

Bidleman grew up here and gives back, Bellack said.

“His uncle Porter once told him,’ Give back, get back,’” Bellack said. “He lives by that motto and I personally thank him for his friendship and support.”