Mayor Inspires Spirit of Generosity at Gala

Snapd Woodbridge/Snapd Vaughan East
June 2016



The compassion and generosity of the residents in the City of Vaughan was demonstrated as almost 1,000 people gathered at the Annual Mayor’s Gala. The event raised an incredible $2 million to help make a difference in the lives of people who need it most. The annual event benefits more than 100 not-for-profit organizations that provide essential services in the City of Vaughan and beyond.

As part of Vaughan’s commitment to support the development of healthcare services close to home, guests were invited to participate in a live auction to have dinner with Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and an opportunity to name a street in the Vaughan Healthcare Centre Precinct where the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital will be located. The successful bid came from Liberty Development at a record $400,000 which will go directly to the Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital. As the evening progressed, Greenpark Group of Companies pledged $1.2 million towards the Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital as well.

The theme of the Gala - Making Modern History - was inspired by Vaughan’s silver anniversary and provided an opportunity to highlight the City’s tremendous transformation in the last 25 years. Canadian music star and Juno Award winner Jully Black kicked off the evening at the Terrace Banquet Centre with a headline performance that had the guests singing along to her greatest hits. The Mayor’s Gala - together with the Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua Annual Charity Golf Classic - have raised more than $5 million since 2011.

“I am proud to host the Mayor’s Gala each year because of what it represents and who it supports. We made history last night. With every act of kindness and each dollar we raise, we are making someone’s day brighter. Vaughan is a socially responsible community with people who genuinely care about one another. We are blessed to have citizens who give back, and, with each passing year, I continue to be inspired by the spirit of generosity that defines our community. That’s what the Mayor’s Gala is truly about - working together to inspire positive change in our city. I am grateful to everyone who contributes to the success of this event. Thanks to our caring and generous citizens, we have raised millions of dollars to help tens of thousands of people. I look forward to continuing the tradition of giving and fulfilling our noble mission to change lives.” - Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua