Vaughan Mayor's Lunar Gala raises $25,000 for VMC YMCA

Oct. 26, 2020 1:00 p.m.
Mayor Bevilacqua grateful for community’s Spirit of Generosity

The City of Vaughan recently presented a cheque in the amount of $25,000 to the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) YMCA with funds raised through the 2019 Mayor’s Lunar Gala. Slated to open in March 2021, the new YMCA centre will include a library, state-of-the-art recreational amenities and public spaces. It is located just steps from the VMC subway station and Mobility Hub in the heart of Vaughan’s downtown core.
 
The City of Vaughan held the second Mayor’s Lunar Gala on Sept. 20, 2019 at Riviera Parque in celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Also known as the Moon Festival, this special tradition originated in ancient times when family, friends and loved ones would gather to enjoy the moonlight splendour and give thanks for an abundant harvest. It is a time when the moon is at its roundest and brightest, symbolizing togetherness and reunion.
 
Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco served as the Honorary Chair of the Mayor’s Lunar Gala, organizing the event with the Committee’s three co-chairs, Andy Chan, Irwin Li and Justin Poy. The 2019 Mayor’s Lunar Gala has donated a total of $75,000, which included a $25,000 pledge from Mayor Bevilacqua through the Spirit of Generosity initiative, to the Mackenzie Health Foundation and the new Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital, a cornerstone of Vaughan’s city-building efforts.
 
QUOTE
 
“For generations of Canadians, and indeed people around the world, the YMCA represents a welcoming place that strengthens communities and helps individuals of all ages reach their full potential. Now more than ever, it is important to support essential community organizations, like the YMCA, that are making a positive and lasting difference in society. As we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, we recognize the integral role this new VMC YMCA will play in creating a modern, open and accessible space where everyone can make meaningful connections. I want to express my warmest and sincerest gratitude to the volunteers and supporters of the 2019 Mayor’s Lunar Gala. Through your generosity, we are making a significant investment into Vaughan’s bright and promising future. Together, we can ensure that our city will continue to build upon its success and set our children and grandchildren up to be the next generations that take Vaughan to new and unrivalled heights.”
- Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
 
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