The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Wellington Dufferin is kicking its fundraising up a notch in 2010 with the introduction of the first annual Gala Royale – a fundraising evening in support of the placement of life-saving automated external (AEDs) in priority locations throughout the community.
“We have enjoyed success with many of our longest running, grassroots fundraising initiatives, such as the Person-to-Person campaign that kicks off in February,” said area manager Gina Sweet, who added that “2010 will see the launch of an exciting new event that will take us to the next level.”
The Heart & Stroke Foundation’s Gala Royale, presented by Gabriel Frank of Investor’s Group, takes place Feb. 6 at Guelph Place.
Tickets are $100, and all proceeds go to the purchase of AEDs for placement in areas throughout the community that are identified as priorities by Emergency Services.
“In the future, through the generosity of our supporters, we hope to make AEDs as commonplace as fire extinguishers,” said Sweet. “And Gala Royale is just one step towards achieving that goal. We are very excited that all funds raised from that particular event, stay local.”
Not only will Gala Royale raise funds in the short-term for foundation, but it will also introduce the opportunity to engage in long-term, legacy planning through the “Charitable Giving Foundation” at Investors Group.
It is the goal to launch a trust for donors, with all proceeds benefitting the Wellington-Dufferin Chapter of Heart and Stroke Foundation.
“To be part of an inaugural event that will prove to be amongst this community’s perennial fundraising initiatives is extremely exciting,” said Frank.
“Our wealth management team looks forward to the opportunity of working alongside the Wellington Dufferin chapter of the Heart and Stroke Foundation in aid of its fundraising and planned giving initiatives for many years to come.
“It is refreshing to give back to the community while increasing awareness of such a worthy cause.”
According to event organizers, Gala Royale promises to be an evening of entertainment and dance with music by the
Royal City Big Band, and a silent auction. Dance demonstrations by professional performers are also planned.
Linamar Chief Executive Officer Linda Hasenfratz will be this year’s honorary chairman.
Tickets are on sale and more information about the event can be found at www.galaroyale.ca or by calling 519-837-4858.
“Gala Royale is going to be an amazing evening,” said Sweet. “Tickets for the event make great Christmas gifts, or an elegant Valentine’s celebration.”
