Reflecting on a Year of Dreams: Rising Stars' 2023 Recap and Exciting Plans for 2024
Dear Rising Stars Community,
As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with immense gratitude and pride for what we've accomplished together. With your unwavering support, dedication, and generosity, we've made significant strides in our mission to bring hope and joy to children battling critical illnesses through our partnership with Make-A-Wish Canada.
2023 Success
We are thrilled to announce that in 2023, Rising Stars achieved remarkable success, raising just over $15,000 (before expenses)! This incredible achievement wouldn't have been possible without the collective efforts of our sponsors, donors, supporters, and the entire Rising Stars community. Your contributions have made a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in need.
Of the funds raised, $10,000 will be donated directly to Make-A-Wish Canada, fulfilling our commitment to support their mission. The remaining amount will be retained as float, ensuring we can continue to host impactful events and initiatives in the future.
Events Highlights from 2023
1. Wish Cycle: Haunting for a Cause: We kicked off our fundraising efforts with an exhilarating Halloween ride at Spin/Co, bringing together nearly 25 Toronto professionals. Together, we raised $500 to support our cause.
2. Sip, Savour, Slay: Annual Soiree: Our Annual Soiree at Que Rico Toronto was a night to remember! Thanks to the support of 15 companies and our generous sponsors we raised over $14,000 through sponsorships, donations, and raffle ticket sales. The evening was filled with delicious food, wonderful cocktails, and amazing entertainment, making it a huge success!
Thanking Our Sponsors and Donors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors and donors whose generosity made our 2023 achievements possible:
Yim Team
IFDS
Atlas Van Lines Canada
SpinCO
Que Rico Tapas Bar
Imagica - Events Reimagined
Your support has been invaluable in helping us make a difference in the lives of children facing critical illnesses.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As we embark on a new year, we are excited to announce some changes and introductions for 2024. Rising Stars will continue its partnership with Make-A-Wish Canada, focusing on planning engaging events, raising awareness among young professionals in the GTA, and hosting impactful fundraisers to further support the Make-A-Wish organization.
We are thrilled to introduce our new chairs for 2024:
Chair: Ashley Don Paul
Ashley has been with Rising Stars since nearly the beginning, joining the committee after our inaugural gala in 2019. Her dedication to making dreams come true for children battling critical illnesses embodies the spirit of compassion and drive that defines our organization.
Co-Chair: Maria Arce
Maria joins us as a long-time supporter, demonstrating her commitment to empowering young professionals and fostering a culture of philanthropy within the Toronto GTA community. Her passion and dedication are truly inspiring.
Together, Ashley and Maria will lead our committee with innovation, inclusivity, and a relentless pursuit of our fundraising goals. Their collaborative spirit and fresh perspectives promise to ignite new opportunities for engagement, creativity, and impact within our vibrant community of young professionals.
Thank you once again for your unwavering support and dedication to the Rising Stars cause. Together, we will continue to make dreams come true for children in need.
Warm regards,
The Rising Stars