VAUGHAN, ON – Mackenzie Health Foundation’s 29th annual gala was a sensational celebration of exceptional health care and unparalleled community generosity, raising $1.22 million net for the Exceptional Care Belongs Here campaign for Mackenzie Health.
Presented by Rogers for the fifth year, the evening took 1,100 influencers from the GTA’s business, political and medical circles on a Tuscan-themed adventure complete with wine tastings, fabulous entertainment and an exclusive preview into the future of health care in the region.
Hosted by Frankie “Flowers” Ferragine from City’s Breakfast Television, proceeds from the sold-out A Night in Tuscany support Mackenzie Health Foundation’s $250-million Exceptional Care Belongs Here campaign to build and equip the future Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital, Canada’s first smart hospital; and enhance care at Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital.
The live auction was one for the record books, raising in just minutes more than $200,000, including an appeal for a new $2-million state-of-the-art CT scanner for Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, an urgent equipment priority for Mackenzie Health. Latif Fazel, Foundation Board member and co-chair of the CT scanner appeal, challenged guests to a match gift of $100,000, and rise to the challenge they did.
“This is a community that truly cares about each other and the future of this incredible region in which we live, coming together to support this vital fundraising initiative,” said Enzo Morini, Chair, Mackenzie Health Foundation Board of Directors. “The Foundation is grateful to have the full support of the community as we continue to build an exceptional health care system for southwest York region.”
It was celebration after celebration throughout the evening. A Mercedes-Benz CLA250 Coupe, courtesy of Zanchin Automotive Group and Mercedes-Benz Durham, was raffled to one lucky guest.
Exceptional Care Belongs Here campaign Chair, Greg Sorbara commemorated a number of special community and corporate donors whose inspirational gifts are setting the pace for Canada’s largest community hospital campaign, including corporate leader Magna International and community builder Vic De Zen and his family for their transformative $ 10-million gifts to Mackenzie Vaughan Hospital.
“Our gratitude is heartfelt for every gift, no matter its size, because every act of generosity and caring is making a difference.” Mr. Sorbara said.
Every detail of this special celebration was thoughtfully crafted by gala co-chairs Marisa Cosentino, Sandra DeMaria & Deanna Sgro-Natale and their committee, including the spectacular collection of live and silent auction items and raffle prizes.
“A tremendous amount of work goes into this event and behind it, is an amazing committee of volunteers who have truly made this evening memorable,” said Ingrid Perry, Mackenzie Health Foundation President and CEO. “With this event and the many others held throughout the community, it is wonderful to witness the strength of the partnerships committed to bringing the best health care to our community.”
Mackenzie Health Foundation has raised more than $111 million since inception for capital projects, medical equipment, technology and educational opportunities for Mackenzie Health.
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Contact: Danielle Luciano, Coordinator, Donor Relations and Communications, Mackenzie Health Foundation 905-883-1212 ext. 7806. Danielle.Luciano@mackenziehealth.ca