RO on the GO! : CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME

They say charity begins at home and I can attest to that! Through 'RO On The GO" or via my event column in Panoram Italia Magazine I'm witness to the incredible spirit of philanthropy that exists with the city of Vaughan. Here are few fundraisers I covered for the 2014 fall season (I also had the chance to emcee one!)

September 26 Imagine
Despite the nasty jet lag from my European holiday I couldn't wait to emcee the 1st Annual “Imagine” Event (Eagle's Nest). Benefiting the Give Kids a Chance Foundation, this fundraiser raised proceeds for the construction of Los Patohos – a youth centre in Guatamala. With the 5th highest crime rate worldwide and 80% of its citizens living in extreme poverty, this centre is like an oasis in the desert. It was a privilege to meet Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes, a young teacher and 2014 CNN hero who founded the original centre when he opened his parents’ home to help over 1500 children in the area. Even today Pablo and his parents still live in the top floor of their home while providing a safe haven to kids down below. The event raised close to $80, 000 and once completed Los Patohos will be recognized as a university!!!!
For more information visit:http://www.givekidsachancefoundation.com/

Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes with Foundation Founders

Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes and Tony Monaco

Linda Granzotto

October 3 Hospice Vaughan Gala
When I mention Hospice Vaughan I sometimes have people ask me, “What EXACTLY is Hospice?” Hospices have been around for centuries. They were once a refuge for weary travelers as well as a place where the terminally ill and wounded could get much needed care. Although much has changed, modern hospices can be found in almost every community and give compassionate support to persons dealing with life-threatening illness or the loss of a loved one – something we sadly all have in common. As an organization I strongly support, Hospice Vaughan has been serving the community since 1995. It was incredible to see close to 1000 people show their support at the 5th Annual Hospice Vaughan “Giving Thanks” Gala!!! A record-breaking year. Congrats to John Amendola, Carmela Sisto and the rest of the team at Hospice Vaughan
To donate or to volunteer at Hospice Vaughan please visit:http://www.hospicevaughan.com/

Transportation Minister among the ladies :)

Massimo Fiore and Rob Lorusso

Hospice President, John Amendola and Mayor Bevilacqua

October 7 Savour York Region Food Drive

A seriously emotional moment when a kind gentleman strolled out of Longo’s with an overflowing grocery cart and donated THE WHOLE THING to Savour York Region’s “8th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive”!!!!! Please remember that even in an affluent city like Vaughan there are people in need. Most don't want others to know they’re having financial difficulty. Two people in my own life, educated single moms, have told me that in the distant past they’ve had to visit food banks...ashamed to let anyone know of their difficulties. I was stunned but learned that a fine line does exist and that it could happen to any one of us. you can drop-off non-perishable food items to all Vaughan Fire Halls or at the Vaughan Food Bank (71 Marycroft Ave). Monetary donation online are also being accepted at http://www.savouryorkregion.ca/food-drive/

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, SYR's Elvira Caria and Nadia Cerelli ..along with the Monacos!

Anne Di Bello of Insurance Brokers of Toronto with Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua and Vaughan Food Bank Director, Peter Wixson

Vaughan Fire Inspector, Andre Clafton

October 10 Hats On For Awareness
Fancy hats and fascinators were all the rage at the 6th Annual Hatsquerade. Held at Riviera Parque in Vaughan the Hats On for Awareness Gala supports the CAMH Foundation (Centre of Addiction and Mental Health) and helps shatter the stigma associated with mental illness. Creating awareness were countless people telling their personal stories…people like you and I who have found the courage to share their experiences associated with depression and related issues - or of those of their loved-ones. Congratulations to Debby Rossi and her fellow gala committee members for not only inspiring us with a heartfelt evening but for also organizing a great party!
To learn more about this amazing cause visithttp://www.hatsonforawareness.com/

Committee Member - Debby Rossi

Alex Settino Debby Rossi

October 21 Moda In Motion Fashion Show
As a member of the CIPBA Ladies’ Auxiliary I was proud to attend our annual fashion show, “HOLLYWOOD AT THE PARAMOUNT” last week. The goal of the evening was to raise funds for Behaviour Innovations of Toronto and raise awareness to children dealing with Autism. Founded over 6 decades ago with the objective to provide assistance to Italian immigrants, the Auxiliary’s current mandate is to give support to medical institutions and philanthropic organizations across the GTA. In addition to an amazing meal, prizes, musical entertainment and countless vendors the show featured exclusive European couture and designs by internationally-renowned fashion designers Domenic Serio and Brian Bailey.
Thanks Luca Viorel and YOUR AD ONLINE for the catwalk pics.

Designer Dominic Serio

November 1 Give To Pink

What I love about my work is that I meet so many outstanding people doing charity work at the grassroots level. Steeles Paint and their “GIVE TO PINK” Fundraiser is a perfect example. Celebrated at Canada’s largest independent paint store on November 1st, the month-long charity event raised over $27, 000 for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation of Ontario. Sponsored by Benjamin Moore & Co. and Para Paints, the Vaughan retailer donated $1 from every gallon of paint sold throughout October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month). Well done, Claudio Grisolia of Steeles Paint!

Presenting a cheque to Anthony Miceli of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation of Ontario

CHIN's Ali Bidabadi

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Steeles Paint Volunteers

November 1 Mackenzie Health Gala
Ohhhhhh what a great time at the “Oh, What a Night” Gala Fundraiser! Hosted by Breakfast Television’s Kevin Frankish the evening featured a stellar musical tribute to Frankie Valli. Also had a fun time sitting at the SNAPD table..thank you John Amendola. Benefiting the Mackenzie Health Foundation all proceeds from this event support both Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital as well as the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital.

Tony, Marlena, Rosie and Gus

The usual suspects!!

Cathy Amendola and Fabio Gesufatto

November 14th Sheena's Place

This event held at Montecassino Place in Vaughan supports Sheena's Place, a support Centre for Eating Disorders. After some touching speeches guests got to enjoy a stellar performance by The British Invasion. Lead singer (Paul McCartney double) was my husband Tony Monaco's childhood friend Joe Culmone.

November 23 Vitanova Celebration of Life Gala

The annual Vitanova Foundation Gala & Celebration of Life raises awareness to individuals suffering from various forms of addiction. From alcohol and drug abuse to gambling addiction this special event also celebrates sobriety.

Founded in 1987 by Franca Damiani Carella, Vitanova's 15,000 sq.ft. facility houses a domiciliary shelter and offers a variety of counselor-operated day programs, evening aftercare and therapy courses.

I was especially moved by Franca’s powerful speech including vocal performances by Vitanova residents. Kudos to sensational choirmaster Carlo Coppola!