CCS Home for the Holidays Gala continues – virtually at home

November 26, 2020 · 0 Comments

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

In spite of the difficulties in fundraising for various programs and services, Caledon Community Services (CCS) remains committed to one of their most significant events of the year.

Every winter season, a festive Gala takes places to allow members of the community alongside municipal officials to join in a night of togetherness, fun and, more importantly, raising funds to support CCS.

All proceeds from the event goes directly back into the community by funding programs, services and activities for the variety of residents who require the assistance.

As COVID-19 pandemic continues with no current signs of slowing down, CCS made the conscious decision to keep the Gala going, but with the necessary adaptions.

“If we have learned anything this year it is that we must stay connected to our supporters, volunteers, donors, partners and sponsors,” said Chief Development Officer Nicole Hand. “Just because we can’t do things the way we have traditionally done them doesn’t mean we don’t need their help; in fact, we need it more than ever, and the best way to encourage support is to provide opportunities for the community to engage with us.”

The Home for the Holidays Gala 2020 will be taking its name literally this year, as the event has turned completely virtual.

The event will be similar to the traditional Gala that takes place each year, but now attendees will remain in the comfort of their own home, while guest speakers, entertainers, a silent auction, as well as prizes, will be live streamed for the community.

“The ‘gala’ itself will take place via a live stream on December 5,” said Hand. “This online show is open only to event guests, and will feature music, storytelling, special messages and many guests! Full experience ticket purchasers will also receive a special delivery to their homes or offices of our ‘gala-in-a-basket.’ The contents of these baskets represent each element of our traditional evening.”

The Gala already has a list of over 20 dedicated sponsors including Argo Development Corp, Town of Caledon, Peel Regional Police, James Dick Construction Ltd, and many others. Alongside the sponsors, Hand states that there have been many generous donors from the community.

“The gala has a goal of raising $105,000…and we are well on our way!” she said.

Ticket sales have been selling fast, but once the “full gala experience” tickets have sold out, Gala Participation tickets that are selling for $40 will be available.

Members of the community, as well as Council members, have shared their excitement and the importance of the Gala, including Ward 2 Regional Councillor and Volunteer Chair for the gala, Johanna Downey.

“We realize that as businesses continue to navigate their way through this ‘new normal’, it is so important for all of us to support companies doing business locally. We want to be sure you are included in our efforts,” said Downey in a recent statement. ‘Let’s partner together to make this a success for those in Caledon who rely on the programs and services that CCS provides.”

For more information about the 2020 Home for the Holidays Gala, please visit ccshome4theholidays.com.