A Decade of Giving Back

An incredible community hosts an annual Valentine’s Day Gala to help advance cancer care

When Joe Azzopardi and his wife, Rose, launched the Giving Hearts Gala, they never dreamed that a decade later the event has raised more than $320,000 in support of prostate and breast cancer care. Prompted by a strong desire to give back — and a friendly challenge to do more than just talk about it — Joe and Rose rallied their friends and wrangled some dedicated volunteers to host an inaugural event.

Looking back at the progress he’s made since then, Joe says successful fundraising events are all about channeling your passion, drive and commitment into action.

“We have a committee of eight and it’s really everyone behind me who makes this happen,” says Joe.

Each year the Giving Hearts Gala raises around $30,000 for programs at Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Centre. Attendees also get to hear about the many ways in which Sunnybrook is leading groundbreaking cancer research and treatment.

“We want it to be an uplifting night,” says Joe. “We know there are successes being made in cancer care and research, and we want our guests to know about it.”

Joe is eager and inspired to know that the impact of the gala can lead to game-changing findings for prostate and breast cancer. The gala also benefits PYNK, a program that supports and connects women ages 40 and under who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer. As the first of its kind in Canada, PYNK is made possible through generous donor support and fundraising events like the Giving Hearts gala.

This year, the Valentine’s Day-themed gala took place on February 17 at Hazelton Manor. Joe and Rose were thrilled at seeing how many of the couples who attended the first Gala are now carrying on the tradition by bringing their teenage children to enjoy a gourmet dinner and incredible live entertainment.

For Joe it’s all about building community. “Our 400 guests are making a difference in someone’s life. That’s the best part of knowing that whatever you’re doing is making a real difference.”

To learn more about how you can launch your own fundraiser to support Sunnybrook, contact events@sunnybrook.ca or visit our website to learn more.