Aurora-based CHATS toasts scotch tasting fundraiser that raised $24,000

Yorkregion.com
April 27, 2023

Here’s something to toast.

Community and Home Assistance to Seniors (CHATS) raised $24,000 through its Better with Age scotch tasting fundraiser March 21 at Aurora’s Shed Stonehaven Banquet Hall.

The event helps the organization deliver and expand programs that keep clients socially connected, helping them to live well and improve their physical, mental and emotional well-being.

This year’s fundraiser marked the ninth year that CHATS, local whisky sommelier Keith Scott and the Aurora Whisky Society led the interactive experience in the world of whisky.

“The CHATS whisky event allows me to share my passion for and knowledge of whisky from around the world,” Scott said.

“The evening was an enormous success, and it is great seeing so many familiar faces attending for such a great cause.”

CHATS CEO Christina Bisanz said the organization is thankful to its sponsors, Magna International, Amica Unionville, RC Design and Chartwell Retirement Residences York Region, the media, including Metroland Media, and participants for making the event a success.

“We especially appreciate the Aurora Whisky Society’s dedication for the past nine years,” she said.

“Funds raised enable CHATS to provide older adults and their caregivers with the supports necessary to live their best at home and in their communities.”

Rob Clark, of RC Design, was proud to sponsor the event.

"Supporting CHATS at their annual scotch tasting fundraising event was a no-brainer for me. CHATS is a critical resource for the community it supports,” he said.

“Having a family member living with Alzheimer's, I recognize that the programming CHATS provides is a vital resource for supporting its clients directly and is critical respite for the families supporting them. Thank you for all you do, CHATS. Also, thank you for the amazing night I was able to share with friends and colleagues. Oh … and the scotch.”

The event’s theme was meaningful, CHATS vice-president of philanthropy and communications, Kelly Broome, said.

“This year’s theme Better with Age means aging well and with dignity, a vision CHATS has held for older adults in York Region and South Simcoe for over 40 years,” she said.

“The Aurora Whisky Society has been a community champion for CHATS.”

The annual event ensures critical services are provided for older residents, Mayor John Taylor said.

“The CHATS scotch nosing event brings members of our community together to support our region’s most important service provider for seniors,” he said.

“CHATS needs our support so they can do the important work they do to support seniors in our community and region.”

Aurora Coun. Rachel Gilliland, who attended for the first time, sampled scotch from around the world, including Ireland and Japan.

“While I am not much of a whisky enthusiast by any means, I did discover a whole new appreciation for the craft,” she said.

“I learned about the history, process in making it, on the nose first impressions, neat or not neat, and the lingering finishes. For a worthy cause and an educational experience, I left yearning for another event.”

Newmarket resident Jackie Playter also attended and praised the event.

Check out photos at facebook.com/media/set/?set=a. 584324907065107&type=3&mibextid=ncKXMA.