As the calendar nears closer to turning the page on another year, Toronto created its share of buzz with a number of notable events that took place around the GTA. Here is a look at the top 5 philanthropic events in 2019.

Teddy Bear Affair

This annual event benefits the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada. Attendance grew from 850 people in 2017 to more than 900 last year in 2018, when the gala sold out and attendees raising $1.8 million. The dinner and dance take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Toronto Taste

Toronto Taste 2019 had a record-breaking year: thanks to its sponsors and partners, the event raised $1 million for Second Harvest’s food rescue program. 1,500 guests enjoyed the exquisite tastes from 50 of Toronto’s premier restaurants and sipped libations from 23 beverage
purveyors.

Right to Play Heroes Gala

This black-tie event surpassed its 2018 fund-raising goal of $2 million, and subsequently raised $2.64 million this year in support of Right to Play, an organization built to help children rise above adversity through the power of play. Advocating for the mission of the organization was Toronto’s Sean St. John, who served as the 2019 Heroes Gala co-chair.

Ontario Science Centre’s Innovation Ball

The Ontario Science Centre turned 50 this year and hosted the 50th Birthday RBC Innovators’ Ball on its actual opening date 50 years ago – Thursday, September 26, 2019. The theme for 2019 was “pushing the boundaries of the possible” and organizers raised $2 million.

Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival

Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival is Canada’s top wine and culinary fundraiser for medical research and innovation. Grand Cru has raised more than $29.7 million since 2005 to support scientific research and fund key program areas at Toronto General and Toronto Western Hospitals, University Health Network (UHN).

Published: 2019-11-25 21:53:44