By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Classic cars and stylish new vehicles were on display in Bolton last weekend.

On Sunday, September 24, Sorrento Retirement Residence held a charity car show in support of Meaghan's Music Room. 

The event ran from 1 to 3 p.m. and featured live music, food, drinks, speeches, and lots of amazing vehicles. 

Meaghan's Music Room is a non-profit run out of Tisho's Music Academy in Bolton. It provides music and dance classes to individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. 

Desiree Nicolini, Director of Sales and Marketing for Sorrento Retirement Residence, said when planning for the car show, she learned of Meaghan's Music Room from a contact. After learning more about what the non-profit did for the community, she knew she wanted to support them with the car show fundraiser. 

“Music brings everybody together, I know how music empowers people,” said Nicolini. 

The idea for a car show first came when a Sorrento resident's son-in-law wanted to bring his cars in to show them to residents. After seeing enthusiasm about the idea, Nicolini said the decision was made to have a show and pick a local charity to support. 

“The response from people was amazing,” said Nicolini. “So many people were calling, wanting to bring their cars in.”

Ward 5 Councillor Tony Rosa was at the car show. He said Meaghan's music room is an incredible place that he's had the honour of visiting.

“Being an arts teacher myself, it's incredible to watch how important this (musical) engagement is for these individuals,” said Rosa. “This is a worthy cause.”

Robert Ward, Chair of the Meaghan's Music Room Board of Directors, expressed heartfelt thanks from the Board to the community for its support of Meaghan's Music Room.

“Music is a universal language that transcends barriers, and its therapeutic benefits have been increasingly recognized and harnessed,” said Ward in his remarks.

He explained music therapy provides individuals with disabilities an avenue for emotional expression and connection. Additionally, he said playing music in a class fosters a sense of belonging and self-esteem.

“Through music, individuals can enhance their concentration, memory and problem-solving abilities,” said Ward. “It can also serve as a powerful tool for speech and language development, helping those who struggle to communicate verbally to express themselves more effectively.”

Ward thanked Sorrento Retirement Residence for hosting the charity car show and said the work of Meaghan's Music Room wouldn't be possible without supporters like Sorrento.

“Your belief in the potential of music therapy to make a difference… is a testament to the compassion and unity that defines our community,” said Ward. “Together, we are creating a world where music knows no boundaries and the healing power of harmony knows no limits.”

Caledon Mayor Annette Groves said she encourages people to go to Meaghan's Music Room and see the work that's done there because it is so amazing.

“This program is not just about music, it's about the inspiration that it gives to these individuals,” said Groves.

Dawn Janes, a participant in Meaghan's Music Room, also spoke at the car show. She said when she first started participating, she was shy. 

“Music camp helps me to be social with other people,” said Janes. “I love the skills that I have learned during my music sessions.”

Janes said Meaghan's Music Room brings the community together as a family who understand each other's needs.