"What's Trending" Newsletter

August 2026 Vol. 2

An Evening with 
Raine Maida & Chantal Kreviazuk

In Support of Villa Colombo Toronto

An Evening With

Thursday, October 15, 2026

Montecassino Hotel & Event Centre

Join us for an unforgettable evening with acclaimed Canadian artists Raine Maida and Chantal Kreviazuk as they headline a special fundraiser in support of Villa Colombo Toronto.

 

This exclusive event will raise critical early-stage funding to support the renovation plans at Villa Colombo Toronto, ensuring the home continues to meet advancing long-term care standards while providing exceptional, culturally enriched care for generations to come.

 

More than 500 guests are expected to gather at Montecassino Hotel & Event Centre for an intimate concert experience, featuring two of Canada’s most celebrated artists. The evening will also include exceptional dining and meaningful opportunities to connect with friends, supporters, and community leaders who share a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

Sponsorship Packages also Available

Immigrant Tribute Plaque

Villa Charities

Cinema Sotto le Stelle

Cinema Sotto le Stelle Continues through August

There’s still time to enjoy Cinema Sotto le Stelle! Join us in the Anthony Fusco Sr. Courtyard for a special outdoor film series celebrating contemporary Italian cinema, presented in partnership with TLN Media Group. With films continuing throughout the month, gather your friends and family and enjoy an evening of Italian storytelling on the big screen. Tonight at 9:00pm, “Belli Ciao”, follows two lifelong friends who reunite after years apart and discover that life and friendship are both hilarious and unpredictable.

 

Upcoming Films:

  • Saturday, August 22 — “I Predatori
  • Monday, August 24 — “Genitori vs Influencer”
  • Saturday, August 29 — “Primadonna”
  • Monday, August 31 — “Rosanero”

 

Learn More

We Speak Soccer

Serie A Soccer Match Screenings

Watch the excitement of Serie A Italian Championship Soccer on our outdoor screen throughout August, presented in partnership with TLN Media Group. This weekend’s Serie A coverage begins Saturday at 11:30am with Inside Serie A’s Season Preview, followed by Inter v. Monza at 12:25pm. On Sunday, August 23, viewers can watch an encore of Inter v. Monza at 8:55am before Frosinone v. Juventus at 12:25pm and Torino v. Milan at 2:30pm.

 

View Full Schedule

Celebrating the Voices of Italy

From Dante to Dialects: Celebrating the Voices of Italy

Discover the rich history and diversity of Italy’s regional languages through two special events. On Tuesday, August 25 at 7:00pm, Searching for the Italian Language explores medieval Italy’s linguistic landscape through the eyes of Dante Alighieri and his influence on the Italian language. On Thursday, August 27 at 6:30pm, L’eco dei Dialetti: A Celebration of Dialects celebrates Italy’s dialects through an evening of poetry, prose, and song by various authors.

     

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Altered States Photography Transformed

Experience “Altered States: Photography Transformed”

Opening Friday, August 28 at the Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery, “Altered States: Photography Transformed” brings together the work of nine artists who challenge traditional ideas of what a photograph can be. Through digital intervention, experimental processes, chance encounters, and physical manipulation of the printed image, the artists transform and expand the possibilities of the photographic medium. Join us for the Opening Reception on Friday, August 28 at 7:00pm, or sign up for an exclusive exhibition tour on September 17 with curator Flavio Belli.

                       

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An Evening of Timeless Opera Classics

On Thursday, September 3, join us for an evening of beloved opera classics featuring husband and wife duo soprano Carla-Grace Catala and baritone Diego Catala, accompanied by pianist Brahm Goldhamer. This captivating performance features celebrated arias by some of the world's greatest composers, including Puccini, Mozart, and Verdi, plus Broadway favourites from “My Fair Lady” and “South Pacific”. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this spectacular tribute to opera’s most enduring masterpieces.


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A Special 9/11 Anniversary Screening: “You Are Here”

In recognition of the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, join us on Friday, September 11, from 4:00 to 6:00pm in the Anthony Fusco Sr. Courtyard for a special FREE screening of "You Are Here", an intimate documentary telling the remarkable story of the people of Gander, Newfoundland, who welcomed and cared for more than 6,500 stranded passengers in the days following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Featuring first-hand accounts, the film offers a powerful reflection on kindness, resilience, and the enduring strength of community. Presented in partnership with MDF Productions.

 

Register Now

An Evening of Bossa Nova - Fernanda Cunha

Brazilian Vocalist Fernanda Cunha Sings Bossa Nova

Join us on Friday, September 11 at 7:30pm. for an intimate evening of classic bossa nova with acclaimed Brazilian vocalist Fernanda Cunha. Accompanied by a stellar ensemble, Cunha brings warmth and elegance to timeless music by Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Gilberto, Luiz Bonfá, and other legendary composers. Let the smooth rhythms and romantic spirit of Brazil carry you away.

 

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Tomato Sauce Making Festa

Tomato Sauce-Making Festival / Festa del Pomodoro

Celebrate the beloved Italian tradition of Festa del Pomodoro (Tomato Sauce-Making Festival) on Sunday, September 13, from 11:00am to 1:30pm. Enjoy a tasty plate of pasta, live entertainment by Gianni Mignardi, plus take home a complimentary jar of homemade tomato sauce. Don’t forget to stop by our new Market Square and discover a great selection of local vendors. Tickets are only $10 – buy yours today!

 

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Italian Language Program

Build Your Italian Skills with Confidence!

Advance your Italian language skills with our in-person courses for adults, presented in partnership with Leonardo Da Vinci Academy. Our Beginner and Intermediate small-group classes welcome learners of all experience levels, providing a supportive setting to improve your speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in Italian. Across 12 weekly sessions, you will develop essential Italian skills while building your grammar, vocabulary, and confidence in everyday conversation. Spaces are limited—learn more and register today!

                       

Register Now

Festa della Ciambella Verolana

Festa delle Ciambelle with the Veroli Cultural Society

Discover the traditional flavours of Veroli, Italy, with a special live demonstration of ciambellethe beloved anise-flavoured bread from the Lazio region. Join us on Sunday, September 20, from 11:00am to 1:30pm, as the Veroli Cultural Society shares the art and tradition behind this classic Italian treat. Enjoy musical entertainment by Gianni Mignardi, along with wine, biscotti, and light refreshments. This special event is presented in partnership with the Veroli Cultural Society.

 

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Democracy Origins Transformations and Global Legacies

“Democracy: Origins, Transformations and Global Legacies” Continues

Explore the political ideas and experiences that shaped republicanism and democratic governance in Renaissance Italy. Join us on Tuesday, September 22 at 6:00pm for “Republican Experiences in Renaissance Italy: Florence between Machiavelli and Guicciardini,”. Focusing on the turbulent period in Florence between 1494 and 1512, Giulio Leghissa will examine how violence, instability, and political upheaval shaped the republican experiences of the time, and how influential thinkers Niccolò Machiavelli and Francesco Guicciardini developed their distinctive views on republicanism and democratic governance. This lecture is the third event in our “Democracy: Origins, Transformations and Global Legacies” series.


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Marco DeVuono

Book Your One-on-One Meeting for Friday Chats with Marco 

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, September 4.  Appointments are 20 minutes each, at 11:00am, 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.

 

Book Your Meeting

Columbus Centre

Save with our End of Summer Camp Special Offer

Looking for a fun way to wrap up the summer at the Columbus Centre? Take advantage of 20% off our half-day Cooking Camp and Tennis Camp for the week of August 24–28. It’s a great opportunity for campers to stay active, discover new skills, and enjoy one last week of summer fun before school starts!


Learn More

Art Programs

Fall Art Workshops Begin This October

Our 10-week Artista Painting Workshop series begins on Tuesday, October 6, led by professional artist and multi-award recipient Sam Paonessa. These classes are ideal for students who want to further develop their oil and acrylic painting skills and techniques. The Less Defined Landscape Painting Workshop begins Wednesday, October 7, encouraging students to explore landscapes through abstract approaches, unconventional techniques and colour palettes, while inspiring creativity and imagination.


Register Now

Resistance Training

Build Strength with Our New Resistance Training Class

Looking to build strength, support bone health, and improve overall fitness? Our new Resistance Training class offers a full-body workout designed to help you develop muscular strength and confidence in a supportive group setting. Using light weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises, the class is suitable for all fitness levels. Resistance Training is just one of the many Group Fitness classes included with your membership. Explore a variety of options to keep your workouts engaging and challenging, including Spinning, Boot Camp, Total Body Challenge, and more.


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Upgrade Your Training with Premium Fitness Programs

Make the Columbus Centre Athletic Club your go-to destination for your health and wellness goals this fall season. With our Premium Fitness Programs, you can elevate your workout through specialty classes led by certified instructors. Choose from Judo, Mindful Meditation, Move Well, Pilates, TRX®, and Yoga—and find your new favourite way to move, stretch, strengthen, and recharge. Open to both Members and Non-Members. Registration for the fall term opens on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

 

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Stay Active in the Water with Fall Aquatics Programs

Dive into fall with Aquafit classes and group swimming lessons at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. From low-impact workouts to skill-building lessons, our certified instructors offer programs for all ages and levels in our large indoor pool. Registration opens Monday, August 31, 2026 for Aquafit programs and Saturday, September 19 for group swimming lessons.

 

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DanzArtz

Train with DanzArts Toronto This Season!

Join DanzArts Toronto for the 2026/2027 Dance Season! We offer professional-level dance training in a welcoming and supportive environment for dancers of all ages and skill levels. Discover our recreational schedule and programs designed to inspire growth, confidence, and a love of dance.

 

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Independent Seniors Apartments

Casa Abruzzo

Casa Abruzzo Celebrates 30 Years!

Casa Abruzzo marked a special milestone this year, celebrating its 30th anniversary alongside its annual Residents’ Appreciation Day. More than 100 residents, Villa Charities staff, and special guests gathered for an afternoon of celebration and recognition. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, music, dancing, and a champagne toast. Certificates were presented to recognize the occasion, along with congratulatory messages from Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, MPP Mohamed Firin and City Councillor Frances Nunziata. It was a wonderful event celebrating 30 years of Casa Abruzzo and the residents and community who have made it so special.

Villa Colombo Vaughan

Villa Colombo Vaughan: August Event Highlights

As we continue to enjoy the warmth of summer, residents have come together to celebrate meaningful traditions and create lasting memories. One summer highlight was our long-awaited outing to La Paloma on August 6, where residents enjoyed authentic Italian gelato, shared laughter, and spent quality time with friends and neighbours. We also celebrated the Assumption of Mary and Ferragosto, a cherished Italian tradition that brought residents and families together to honour faith, culture, and community. These special moments have made for a wonderful season of connection and togetherness.

Our Mission:

Enriching lives through experiences and services that honour Italian culture and heritage.


Our Vision:

Inspiring people to explore the Italian in all of us.


Villa Charities Inc.
901 Lawrence Ave W, Toronto, ON, M6A 1C3

416-789-7011 • info@villacharities.comvillacharities.com

Villa Charities Foundation Charitable Registration Number: 89337 0767 RR001


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