Join us to honour the Italian Fallen Workers on Monday, April 28 at 3:00pm. Together, we will honour the more than 1,600 Italian workers who lost their lives to workplace tragedies across Canada. Villa Charities is proud to be the home of the Memorial Wall, unveiled in 2016 in partnership with the Committee for the Italian Fallen Workers Memorial Project.

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On Thursday, May 1 at 7:00pm, enjoy a free screening of “Transmission and Transformation: An Ethno-Musicological Study of the Italian Canadian Community of Toronto” by musicologist Roberta De Piccoli. Through interviews across multiple waves of migration, the film explores how music has shaped identity—serving as both a means of integration and a way to preserve ties to Italy. It also examines the complexities of regional diversity and how nostalgia and authenticity shape cultural expression today. A Q&A will follow the screening. Presented in partnership with the Frank Iacobucci Centre for Italian Canadian Studies, University of Toronto.

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Librissimi - Toronto Italian Book Festival 2025 returns to the Columbus Centre from May 2 – 4, for a weekend of literary events and cultural celebration. The festival opens on Friday, May 2 at 7:30pm with “Molise My Home,” celebrating the cultural heritage of Molise. Italian singer-songwriter Lino Rufo leads a musical journey inspired by the poetry of Molisan diaspora author Giose Rimanelli, marking his centenary. He’ll be joined by a group of Toronto Molisano talent, including award-winning author Nino Ricci, actor Dom Fiore, and singer and filmmaker Andrea Ramolo. Presented in partnership with Librissimi – Toronto Italian Book Festival.

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From May 5 to 26, visit the Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery to experience “Past Present Future: L’Arte che Scompare / The Disappearing Arts” by Canadian artist Cindi Emond. This four-part series explores endangered cultural arts in Italy—some recognized by UNESCO—through environmental portraiture that reflects Italian heritage, tradition, and national identity in the face of rapid change. Join us for the opening reception on Tuesday, May 6 at 7:00pm. Presented in partnership with Contact Photography Festival.

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Explore the traditional pasta of Puglia in this hands-on Taste of Italy class on Tuesday, May 6 at 6:30pm. You’ll learn to shape orecchiette by hand, followed by a tasting of Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa — a classic regional dish made with rapini and anchovies. Participants will take home fresh orecchiette and a printed sauce recipe. Presented in partnership with Chef Luciano Schipano.

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Explore the evolution of Italy in this two-part lecture series with author, translator and historian David Pantano, inspired by Giambattista Vico’s “On the Most Ancient Wisdom of the Italians”. The talks trace Italy’s development from its mythic beginnings to the present day, highlighting the poets, artists, political figures, military leaders, and spiritual thinkers who shaped the Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance eras. Part 1 takes place on Wednesday, May 13, followed by Part 2 on Wednesday, May 20. Presented in partnership with the National Congress of Italian Canadians.

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We invite all members of the community to join us on Monday, May 26 at 6:00pm at the Columbus Centre for the Villa Charities Annual General Meeting. The meeting will include brief presentations to share highlights from the past year and Q&A sessions with Villa Charities Inc. and each of the Affiliate organizations. If you’d like to attend, please RSVP to iusic@villacharities.com or call 416-789-7011 Ext. 240 by May 20.

As part of Toronto’s WeeFestival, “Casa (Home)” by La Baracca Testoni Ragazzi comes to the Columbus Centre on Tuesday, May 27. Designed for children ages 1 to 4, this gentle and poetic performance follows two characters as they meet, play, and build a home together—inviting young audiences to reflect, observe, and create meaning through movement, gestures, and shared storytelling. Performed in Italian with minimal dialogue. Presented in partnership with Istituto Italiano di Cultura Toronto and Leonardo Da Vinci Academy.

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The next stop in our Taste of Italy dinner series takes you to Emilia Romagna—one of Italy’s most celebrated culinary regions. On Friday, May 30 at 6:00pm, enjoy a four-course meal featuring handcrafted dishes made with regional ingredients, from savoury cured meats to slow-cooked ragù. Menu curated by Executive Chef Luciano Schipano and presented in partnership with Boccaccio Ristorante Italiano. Check out the dinner menu and reserve your seats today.

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Designed for children ages 1 to 3, this fun and engaging program introduces Italian language and culture through play, music, and hands-on activities—led by a native Italian instructor with years of early childhood experience. Don’t miss your final opportunity to register for our Italian Immersion Toddler Program at Leonardo Da Vinci Academy, offered on Wednesdays and/or Fridays from 9:00 to 10:00am at the Columbus Centre. A parent or guardian must accompany each child.

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There’s only 4 days left to experience “ORIGIN – Paintings of scale and ambition”, featuring large-scale works by Kyle Bennett, Cheryl HJ Lee, Jan Wheeler, and Majid Zeraati. This exhibition of impressive works of art reminds us that great paintings are not just seen — they are experienced. Exhibit closes on Monday, April 28 at 5:00pm at the

Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery. 

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Book your Friday Chats with Marco! Take the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Marco DeVuono, President and CEO of Villa Charities Inc. to answer any questions or to share your thoughts on our programs and services. Our next meetings will be held on Friday, May 2. Appointments are 20 minutes each, at 11:00am or 2:00pm, and must be scheduled in advance. Contact us today to schedule your in-person or virtual meeting – call 416-789-7011 or email iusic@villacharities.com.

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In this feature we are proud to shine a light on the members of the Villa Charities Board of Directors. These dedicated volunteers generously give their time, expertise, and passion to guide our organization and support the communities we serve. Learn more about the inspiring individuals who help make our work possible.

Angela Gauthier

Ex-Officio (Villa Colombo Homes for the Aged Inc. Chair), Villa Charities Inc.



Angela Gauthier holds Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts degrees from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Education from the Université d’Ottawa. She is fluent in both of Canada’s official languages, as well as Italian. During her 41 years as an educator and teacher, Mrs. Gauthier has also held the positions of Associate Director of Education, Superintendent of Human Resources, Superintendent of the family of schools and education officer at the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) for the development of provincial assessment and has been a school principal for English and French language schools.

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In celebration of Italian Heritage Month, we invite you to join us at 10:00am on Thursday, June 26 for the Blessing of the Villa Charities Italian Canadian Immigrant Tribute Installation. We are honoured to welcome His Eminence, Frank Cardinal Leo, Metropolitan Archbishop of Toronto for a special ceremony to bless the Tribute donor name plaques, commemorative. Hosted by Antonio Giorgi from TLN Media Group.

The deadline to purchase your Tribute plaque for this event is Wednesday, June 4. The event is free to attend but advance registration is required.

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The Villa Charities 18^th Annual Giro Cycling Fundraiser presented by LiUNA OPDC is only one month away on Sunday, May 25.  There is still time to register and fundraise for this community ride that celebrates the exhilarating finale of the Giro d'Italia! Please join us for this fun community ride through Vaughan and the surrounding area that brings together cycling enthusiasts in support of Villa Charities. We hope you will gear up and join us for Giro! 

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Buy your Giro raffle tickets by Sunday, May 25 by 1:00pm for a chance to win a KHS Eastwood hybrid model Men's Bicycle, courtesy of ZM Cycle & Fitness. Raffle ticket proceeds will support areas such as senior care, youth services, education and scholarships, cultural programming, and capital needs through Villa Charities Foundation. Drop by the Columbus Centre Reception to buy yours today! Tickets: 5 for $20.00 or 20 for $50.00

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We’ve just added two new state-of-the-art cold plunges to the Men’s Health Club at the Columbus Centre! Cold therapy offers a powerful way to recharge—from reducing inflammation and boosting circulation to supporting immune health and improving overall mental and physical well-being. Access is included with Men’s Health Club memberships. General Members (male, 18+) can use the cold plunges for an additional fee.

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This summer, take your dance skills to new heights! With exclusive training designed for competitive-level dancers, you’ll push your limits, perfect your technique, and gain the competitive edge you need to succeed. Registration is now open for the DanzArts Toronto 2025 Summer Series. Contact dance@danzartstoronto.com for more information. Don’t miss this opportunity to train with the best—join us for a summer that will set you up for success!

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Campers ages 10 – 13 can take part in a variety of engaging programs at the Columbus Centre this summer, including Senior Camp (ages 10 – 11) for the All-in-One Camp Experience and our Ultimate Sports Camp, and our new Leader-in-Training Program (ages 12 – 13). With over 40 years of experience, we deliver high-quality camps led by skilled, dedicated staff who create a fun and supportive environment for every child. Summer Camps run from June 30 to August 22, 2025.

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The outdoor courts at the Columbus Centre are officially open for the season! Play tennis or pickleball daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm through October 31. An Outdoor Court Membership is required for booking, and registration is now open to both Members and Non-Members. To register, contact fitness@villacharities.com or call 416-789-7011 ext. 213.

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The Columbus Centre Athletic Club now offers Children’s Non-Contact Boxing as part of our Premium Fitness Programs. For ages 8 - 12, these energetic classes combine shadowboxing, footwork drills, and interactive exercises to teach boxing fundamentals—without any physical contact. Led by national champion Viktoria Penney, the program keeps kids active, builds confidence, and fosters focus and teamwork in a safe, supportive environment.

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Unwind with a session from one of our Registered Massage Therapists at the Columbus Centre. Choose from Massage Therapy, Hot Stone Therapy, or Modern Cupping Therapy—all designed to ease stress, support recovery, and help you feel your best. Book your appointment today or give the gift of relaxation to someone special with a gift certificate.

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Aquafit at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club offers a low-impact way to stay active, build strength, and support cardiovascular health. Classes are now underway for both Deep End Aquafit and Arthritic Aqua Training, with weekday options available. Registration remains open for Members and Non-Members—register online or visit the Membership Office.

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Celebrate birthdays, host a gathering, or simply enjoy time with friends and family by booking a private pool party at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Our rentals offer a fun, all-ages experience, with certified staff on-site to ensure everything runs smoothly. Email gungar@villacharities.com for booking details and pricing.

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The Villa Colombo Toronto Auxiliary (VCTA) is gearing up for its 34^th Annual Golf Tournament at Glen Eagle Golf Club on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Enjoy a day of connection and community featuring breakfast, a round of golf, a sit-down lunch, raffle prizes, a silent auction, and a celebration of this year’s champions. Proceeds will support impactful projects that enhance the lives of residents at Villa Colombo Toronto.

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