Thursday, April 10, 2014 - Brampton: William Osler Health System (Osler) Foundation looked toward a centuries-old tradition for a fresh way to raise funds for modern community health care at Osler hospitals, bringing a vibrant new fundraising gala to the community.
The Grand Empire Banquet and Convention Centre was alight with colour on March 28 as 700 people turned out for the unique, new event: Holi Gala – The Festival of Colours. Guests enjoyed gourmet foods, an array of entertainment and fun in celebration of the renewal of springtime.
During the event, guests were entertained by magician Raman Sharma, dancing sensation Broken Dance, and popular vocalist Sukhsinder Shinda.
The gala raised $150,000 for redevelopment initiatives progressing simultaneously at Osler’s Etobicoke General Hospital and the new Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness, as well as equipment needs at Brampton Civic Hospital.
Kulvir Singh Gill, Osler Foundation Board Chair, gave credit to an enthusiastic event steering committee for its dedicated efforts on behalf of the Foundation. He gratefully acknowledged sponsors for having faith in this new addition to the Foundation’s Signature Event line-up and helping seed the fundraiser to grow community investment into building and equipment needs at Osler.
“Thank you to our sponsors, committee members and guests for joining Osler Foundation in its quest to support our fabulous community hospitals,” said Gill. “Tonight’s Holi Gala is a bold first and speaks to the uniqueness and rich fabric of this community. Its success speaks to a passion and dedication of a community that cares.”
Matthew Anderson, Osler’s President and CEO, updated guests on redevelopment at Osler and where the evening’s funds will flow.
“Tonight you are helping Brampton Civic continue to expand programs and fund new equipment, supporting Peel Memorial redevelopment progress leading to ground-breaking on the site later this spring, and investing in a new four-storey expansion at Etobicoke General to provide greater access to the services its community needs most,” Anderson told guests.
Sponsorship was led by TD Bank, CIBC, RBC, BMO, National Bank and Scotiabank. The Grand Empire Banquet and Convention Centre, ATN and the Punjabi Press Club lent generous support to the event’s venue and media needs.