Gala Chairs: Louie Chiaino and Ester Paris Mauro hosting the Hospice Vaughan 2020 Virtual Gala
The annual Hospice Vaughan Gala looked different this year. Due to the pandemic, Hospice Vaughan held its first virtual Gala. On Friday, October 16, 2020 The Life is a Beautiful Ride, Gala to Go, saw over 700 community members join this special and important live-streamed event hosted by Co-Chairs Louie Chiaino and Ester Paris Mauro.
The Gala featured a take-home element as guests enjoyed gourmet meals in the comfort and safety of their own homes. The event raised over $215 000 in support of Hospice Vaughan’s free-of-charge essential programs and services which are offered to the community. Since the start of COVID-19, Hospice Vaughan has seen a 25% increase in demand for programs and services, the support of the community has never been more important. A heartfelt thanks to the evening’s supporting sponsors, Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua (Spirit of Generosity) and Seven View Chrysler. Hospice Vaughan also acknowledges the Interior Systems Contractors Association (ISCA) and Metropolitan Plumbing and Heating Contractors Association, the evening’s Vision and Compassion sponsors. A special thanks to Masters Insurance for being the wine and Vespa sponsor, Pizzaville for donating the to go box gift cards, and Investors Group for sponsoring the live stream and video. Thank you to all the evening’s sponsors.
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a live streamed performance by and chat with Alan Frew of Glass Tiger; had a sneak peek at the future home of Hospice Vaughan; and had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win a brand new Vespa or a 50/50 jackpot. Thank you to Alan Frew for giving guests the opportunity to participate in a live auction, with proceeds directly supporting Hospice Vaughan’s programs and services by generously donating a customized and signed guitar, and tickets to the next Glass Tiger concert.
“We extend our sincerest gratitude to the community for embracing our virtual gala. Your generosity enables Hospice Vaughan to continue the delivery of quality services to all those in need” said Renata Rizzardi, President of The Board, Hospice Vaughan.
“We are incredibly grateful to our community for their overwhelming response to this event, especially during these trying times. Their support and generosity help us continue to deliver essential hospice care to individuals, families and caregivers” said Belinda Marchese, Executive Director, Hospice Vaughan.
A warm thanks to our Gala Co-Chairs – Louie Chiaino and Ester Paris Mauro whose creativity and passion made this event happen; along with Gala Stewards – Sam Ciccolini, Nella Contardi, Romina Cortellucci, and Dr. Vincent Maida.
We also recognize the Board of Directors, donors, staff, and volunteer’s whose efforts and contribution made the Gala such a success.
The Cortellucci Family was also celebrated at the event as our 2020 Community Ambassador Honouree. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate and advocate civic and social responsibility for Hospice Palliative Care.
About Hospice Vaughan
Since 1995, Hospice Vaughan, a not-for-profit organization, has been providing compassionate support to individuals facing a life-limiting illness, their caregivers or those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. We provide various programs and services that include in-home visiting volunteers, a day program, grief and bereavement support, counseling and wellness services and children’s support. Our services extend out to caregivers, family members and friends who also need support through their loved one’s journey and through their grief. Hospice Vaughan is now building a Centre of Excellence 10-Bed Residential Hospice that will serve terminally ill individuals and will support other individuals and families impacted by their illness. This new facility will also house the new Hospice Vaughan Institute for Hospice Palliative Care. All our programs and services are offered free of charge.
For More Information Contact:
Diane Presta-Pereira, Events – Lead, Hospice Vaughan
905-850-6266 x 201
Belinda Marchese, Executive Director, Hospice Vaughan
905-850-6266 x 205 Cell: 416-254-2397
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