$1.1 Million Raised at the Tuscan Nights Vaughan Hospital Gala ~ The Vaughan Health Care Foundation hosted their Fifth Annual Gala on Friday, October 21, 2011. Just shy of 1000 guests packed the Terrace Banquet Hall.The annual signature event is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year. The spectacular event is a testament to the dedication of the community’s support toward raising awareness and money for Vaughan’s Future Hospital.
One of the most sought after events of the year – and this year was no exception – the gala sold out in mid-September. RBC Royal Bank and the Carpenters’ Union helped kick off the amazing festivities as the presenting sponsors. Co-Chairs Marita Simbul-Lezon of RBC Dominion Securities and Rina Pillitteri of RBC Royal Bank greeted guests as the evening begun. Without their support the event wouldn’t have been the same. Honourable Julian Fantino and Mrs. Liviana Fantino, and Mr. Vic De Zen and Mrs. Angelina De Zen - the event Honorary Co-Chairs – were fundamental in many aspects of the evening planning process.
The Co-Chairs recognized the many dedicated community members, business owners and community leaders – dedicated to bringing a Hospital to Vaughan. And thanked them for their generous support toward making the Vaughan Hospital become a reality.
The Gala, which began at 7:00 p.m., featured, a highly anticipated Silent Wine Auction and a Live Auction that featured a 2012 Fiat Sport 500. Auctioneer Martin Ross was joined by the Chair of the Board of the Vaughan Health Care Foundation Sam Ciccolini and the Honourable Julian Fantino, M.P. who took on the duties as spotters, making for a very memorable auction.
Donors, sponsors and guests who were in attendance helped make the Tuscan Nights Gala a great success. Master of Ceremonies, Richard Barbaro, entertained guests with his unique brand of humour. In addition to Mr. Barbaro the live band Sensation, singer/song writer Andy Kim, and Performing Dance Arts added that extra touch that truly made the evening spettacolare!
Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua with the entire Council by his side took to the podium, and in a surprise announcement, pledged $200,000 to the Vaughan Health Care Foundation that evening to help bring the total money raised for the event over the $1 million mark.
Mr. Ciccolini, reiterated to attendees that, “The Vaughan Health Care Foundation is and will continue to play an integral role in Vaughan Hospital project, in partnership with YCH. In July, the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Deb Matthews, reassured us of a new hospital in Vaughan. The announcement assured that the new hospital has been added to Ontario’s infrastructure plan! Significant planning is currently underway for the creation of a Major Regional Health System for Southwest York Region that includes a two-site model for hospital services in Vaughan and Richmond Hill.”
The need for greater health care infrastructure in Vaughan is well known. With a population that will soon reach 300,000, Vaughan residents face numerous challenges in accessing the care they deserve when and where they need it most. “It takes a community to achieve the lofty goals we have set to raise $200 million for the new Vaughan Hospital. If tonight is any indication, we are well on our way!” Said President and CEO, Bob Baker.
Mr. Baker in his address to the attendees noted in response to this exceptional community support to date and into the future, the Foundation has partnered with RBC to create the RBC Royal Bank Community Excellence Award. “Together, RBC and the VHC Foundation intend to recognize a community group or individual each year that exemplifies altruistic tendencies that advance our financial goals in support of the Vaughan Hospital.” said Mr. Baker.
The Tuscan Nights Gala clearly demonstrated the communities commitment to this Hospital Campaign with this tremendous support!