Villa Charities

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A Tribute to 40 Years of Community Service, Leadership and Goodwill

LOOKING BACK

The story of Villa Charities is about volunteers, community development and the fulfillment of aspirations by both settled and new immigrants from all walks of life. From 1971 to today, thousands of people became involved in the largest group of projects initiated by Canadians of Italian origin in Canada.
The Italian Canadian Benevolent Corporation (known as Villa Charities Inc. since 1995) was created in 1971 initially to build a home for the aged. Villa Colombo became a reality in 1976, with support from people across Ontario and from all levels of government. The second project, Columbus Centre, opened in 1980; together with the Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery, which opened in 1987, they provide cultural, educational, athletic and social activities serving people of all ages and backgrounds.
From its humble beginnings, the Villa Charities family of projects grew to include: VITA Community Living Services and Mens Sana Families for Mental Health, with group homes and day programs for adults with mental disabilities and mental illness; Caboto Terrace, Casa Del Zotto and Centro Abruzzo apartment buildings for independent seniors; day care centres for children; a broad range of social services; day programs for seniors; and Villa Colombo Vaughan Di Poce Centre, a second long term care facility. Each endeavor enriches lives with a culturally sensitive interpretation to serve society today and in the future.

STEPPING FORWARD

One could say that the ambitions and vision that the founders of Villa Charities had at its inception have exceptionally exceeded their own expectations. Years of endless volunteer work, leadership and personal dedication made their dreams possible. With little experience in developing such a family, one of the most successful organizations in Canada was built.
With the knowledge and experience acquired and documented over the years, it is now time to hand it over to the younger generation – to keep Villa Charities living and expanding into the next generation. The objective is to encourage today’s youth to participate towards achieving a new mission of its own.
In addition to the renowned annual events which have been carried out by Villa Charities since its formation – in particular its successful special events, art exhibits and The Venetian Ball – the 40th anniversary celebrations will kick off on April 17, 2011 and will continue for the remainder of the year.

FESTEGGIAMO INSIEME!

Planned Programs and Activities

1. Collages, posters and photos to be displayed around the Villa Charities campuses, depicting the organization’s evolution throughout the years
2. Commemorative flags and decorations to be hung at the Villa Charities campus at Lawrence and Dufferin
3. An architectural “charrette” and exhibit in which promising architects will display their future visions of the Villa Charities campus at Lawrence and Dufferin
4. Fellini/TIFF/Restaurant Affinity Program
5. Caboto Day Family Festival
6. Creation of an online archival web site celebrating 40 years of Italian-Canadian life with Villa Charities


Villa Charities is also taking part in the festivities for Italian Heritage Month in June. For more information on the events CLICK HERE.