Coming Up: Italian Heritage Month!

Italian Heritage Month is just around the corner! Don't miss your chance to be part of this wonderful commemoration – get your tickets today and join us in a celebration of culture and heritage that will transport you to the heart of Italy.

 

VCI President and CEO Marco DeVuono appeared on CHIN TV’s Festival Italiano di Johnny Lombardi where he talked about the Italian Heritage Month lineup. Watch the segment.


Here are some of the events to kick off our month-long festivities:


Calabria Mia, Borghi Antichi: Opening Reception

June 1

Immerse yourself in Calabria's breathtaking beauty through Marcello Tarantino's captivating photography exhibition, which continues until June 29.

 

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The Question of Faith in Luigi Pirandello’s Opus

June 6

Uncover the captivating layers of Luigi Pirandello's Opus as Professor Donato Santeramo unveils the profound insights behind the masterful works of this literary genius.

 

Register Now



Wines of Italy

June 7

Join us for a guided wine tasting and discussion with Profile Wine Group. Guests will enjoy a flight of three wines from different Italian regions.

 

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Il Perugino

Il Meglio Maestro d’Italia / The Best Master of Italy

June 7 – 26

A special exhibition showcasing 15 large panel reproductions of iconic works by the Italian

Renaissance painter commonly known as ‘Il Perugino.’


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"LIFE...It's Shirley Happening"

June 9

Join the hilarious pantomime show with Dame Shirley Happening, featuring larger-than-life entertainment, extravagant costumes, and audience participation.

 

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"So She Married a Guido"

June 10

Don’t miss the return of the hilarious one-man-show by actor/comedian Guido Cocomello following its recent sold-out Canadian tour.

 

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For the complete schedule of programming and to register for Villa Charities’ Italian Heritage Month events, visit villacharities.com/ihm.

 

We hope you’ll join us in celebration of Italian Heritage Month!

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Villa Charities Italian Canadian Immigrant Tribute

#TributeThursday – Donor Spotlight

It’s #TributeThursday, where we feature the inspirational immigrant histories from the Villa Charities Italian Canadian Immigrant Tribute Project. This week, we're sharing the story of Vittorio Maneli and Rosanna Maneli (Pasquini), who immigrated in 1952 from Calabria and Marche respectively.

 

Read an excerpt below or see their complete story on our Immigrant Map.

“Vittorio and Rosanna Maneli were Italian immigrants who each came to Canada in 1952 with their families in search of a better life abroad. Vittorio came (…) as a young teenager. Rosanna (maiden name Pasquini) came (…) as a 12 year old girl and recalled her voyage on the ship Saturnia with her mother and younger sister quite vividly as their arrival in December marked the very first time any of them had ever seen snow!

 

Vittorio and Rosanna met in Toronto and got married in 1963. They started an Italian importing business together in 1967 and operated that business for decades bringing traditional Italian giftware and bomboniere to Canadians across the country.

 

They had 4 children and later became “nonni” to 8 grandchildren. Through their many years in Canada, they adopted many Canadian traditions like celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving with turkey or large family barbeques at the cottage on long weekends, but they also maintained many of the old Italian traditions like gathering with family or friends to make their own tomato sauce, wine or ricotta cheese.”

 

The inspiring and heartwarming story of Vittorio, Rosanna and their family is just one of the many incredible family histories that are celebrated and honoured through the Villa Charities Italian Canadian Immigrant Tribute Project.

 

Join the Maneli family today and honour your own family. With a donation to the Tribute Project, you’ll receive a customized name plaque and the chance to share your family’s story with the world.

Honour Your Family

Villa Charities

Ristorante Boccaccio

901 Lawrence Ave. West, Toronto

Lower Level – Inside the Columbus Centre

Grand Opening: Ristorante Boccaccio

Chef Luciano and Chef Anthony are pleased to announce that after months of hard work, Ristorante Boccaccio is finally reopening its doors. Join them for the Grand Opening on Saturday, May 27. Ristorante Boccaccio has been redesigned to feature a modern atmosphere with an updated menu. Their chefs will prepare the finest Italian fare with an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients, and their wine list will offer a selection from the best Italian vineyards to pair with your meal. Their knowledgeable staff will be happy to welcome you to share their passion for Italian culture and cuisine.



Email info@boccaccio.to to RSVP or make a reservation online.


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Art Exhibition Poster

Academy of Realist Art Spring Exhibition: Closes Tomorrow!

Don't miss your final opportunity to explore the captivating Academy of Realist Art Spring Exhibition at the Columbus Centre! As one of the world's few academies embracing the 19th-century European approach to drawing and painting, the ARA has attracted talented students from across the globe. Experience their exceptional mastery of realist techniques before the exhibition concludes on Friday, May 26 at 5:00pm.


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“Italy At Home” Film Festival on TLN TV

Villa Charities is proud to be a sponsor of the “Italy at Home” Film Festival featuring a specially curated lineup of critically acclaimed Italian films. You’ll be saying ‘Lights, Camera, Ciao!’ every night in June at 9:00pm as TLN TV celebrates Italian Canadian Heritage Month (with English-Subtitled films) from May 29 to June 30.


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art and aperitivo

Immerse Yourself in Italian Culture and Conversation at ‘Art & Aperitivo

Indulge in an evening of art, camaraderie, and Italian conversation at our vibrant 'Art & Aperitivo' social event. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply seeking a lively gathering to meet new people, join us for delightful snacks, engaging chats, and cultural immersion. Mark your calendars for our last session of the spring season on Monday, May 29 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm (English speakers) and 7:30 to 8:30 pm (Italian speakers).


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Jazz Series Finale: Join us for an Evening of World-Class Music

Don't miss out on our highly anticipated finale of the Jazz Series at the Columbus Centre! Join us for an unforgettable evening on Wednesday, May 31 at 7:30pm as the exceptional talents of Francesco Cafiso (saxophone), Roberto Occhipinti (bass), Adrean Farrugia (piano), and Ethan Ardelli (drums) take centre stage to deliver mesmerizing melodies and soulful rhythms. 


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Villa Charities Commemorates Seniors Month in Ontario

June is Seniors Month in Ontario, when we celebrate and recognize the incredible contributions seniors make to our communities and the lives they have impacted – across generations. We are committed to supporting the seniors in the Villa Charities community and recognize the efforts of everyone who continues to keep them safe and healthy. 

Book Your Virtual One-on-One Meeting for Friday Chats with Marco

Have a question about our programs and services? Take the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Marco DeVuono, President and CEO of Villa Charities Inc.! Appointments are 20 minutes each between 11:00am and 12:00pm and must be scheduled in advance. The next Virtual Friday Chat is scheduled for Friday, June 9. Contact us today to schedule your virtual meeting – call 416-789-7011 or email iusic@villacharities.com.


Book Your Meeting

Villa Charities Foundation

Villa Charities 2023 Scholarship Program Now Open

The 2023 Villa Charities Scholarship Program is now accepting applications! This exceptional opportunity presents four $2,500 awards to Undergraduate students and four $5,000 awards to Graduate level students. Any person, regardless of heritage, who will help further Villa Charities’ mission to enrich lives through experiences and services that honour Italian culture and heritage is encouraged to apply.


Apply Now

Giro Cycling Fundraiser Takes Place This Weekend!

Join us on Sunday for an incredible experience as we host the 16th Annual Villa Charities Giro Cycling Fundraiser presented by LiUNA OPDC, at the Veneto Centre in Woodbridge. By participating, you play a vital role in supporting essential areas such as senior care, youth services, education and scholarships, cultural programming, and capital needs through Villa Charities Foundation. Don't miss out on this final opportunity to register! If cycling isn't for you, consider sponsoring a rider and make your contributions count!


Register Now

Last Chance: Raffle Tickets for Ladies Raleigh Cruiser Bicycle 

Don't miss your chance to win an exquisite Ladies Raleigh Cruiser Bicycle! Hurry and secure your raffle tickets before sales close tomorrow, Friday, May 26, exclusively at the Columbus Centre Reception. This fabulous prize could be yours to cherish, courtesy of ZM Cycle & Fitness.


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Columbus Centre

Summer Fit for Students: No Enrollment Fee and 25% Off! 

Calling all students! Ready to level up your summer workouts? Look no further than the Columbus Centre Athletic Club! Get access to our 11,000 sq.ft. gym packed with strength training equipment, an indoor running track, fun fitness classes, and personalized training services. Don't miss out on our summer special: Sign up before May 31 to enjoy no enrollment fees and 25% off your first month. 


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Columbus Centre Summer Camp - Enroll Today!

Let your child embark on an unforgettable adventure this summer at the Columbus Centre Summer Camp! With nine different camps to choose from including Visual Arts & Crafts, Dance, Tennis and Sports, along with flexible extended care options, planning your child's summer activities is a breeze. Reserve your child's place today and let our exceptional team of specialized instructors make a lasting impact this summer!


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Meet Our New Squash and Pickleball Professional 

Introducing Dylan, our new Squash Professional! With 15+ years of competitive squash and 17+ years as a national-level gymnast, Dylan brings unparalleled expertise to the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Whether you're a novice eager to learn the game or a seasoned player looking to take your skills to the next level, Dylan is here to help you! Register today for our Squash House League, Adults and Kids "Learn to Play" programs, and intermediate clinics to experience the thrill of squash.  


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Villa Colombo Toronto

VCT Signs Agreement with Cardinal Health for Stockless Supplies Program

Villa Colombo Toronto is excited to announce that they have signed an agreement with Cardinal Health for Stockless Supplies program. By reducing non-value-added time and cost, the Stockless Supplies Program will create operating margin improvements and cost reductions in inventory spending by an average of 30 percent or more. 


Additionally, this will free up some much-needed space at Villa Colombo Toronto, with supplies being delivered on a per-floor basis based on usage. Members of the VCT team had the pleasure of visiting and touring the incredible Cardinal Health National Supply Centre and Just in Time Service.

Golf

VCTA 32nd Annual Golf Tournament, May 31

The Villa Colombo Toronto Auxiliary (VCTA) is gearing up for its 32nd Annual Golf Tournament! This year’s fundraising event will be held at Glen Eagle Golf Club on Wednesday, May 31. Enjoy a fun-filled day featuring breakfast, a friendly game of golf, a delicious sit-down luncheon, raffle prizes, a silent auction, and trophies. Proceeds will benefit the residents of Villa Colombo Toronto. 


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Our Mission:

Enriching lives through experiences and services that honour Italian culture and heritage.


Our Vision:

Inspiring people to explore the Italian in all of us.

Villa Charities Inc. | 416-789-7011 | info@villacharities.com | www.villacharities.com

901 Lawrence Ave W, Toronto, ON, M6A 1C3 I About Us
Villa Charities Foundation Charitable Registration Number: 89337 0767 RR001

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