"What's Trending" Newsletter

May 2026 Vol. 1

Countdown to Giro!

Giro 2026

Less Than Two Weeks Left to Register and Ride

There’s still time to register for Villa Charities 19th Annual Giro Cycling Fundraiser, presented by LiUNA OPDC on Sunday, May 24th at the Veneto Centre. Join us for this fun community ride through Vaughan and the surrounding area in support of Villa Charities. It’s because of events such as Giro that Villa Charities Foundation can provide programs that enrich lives through experiences and services that honour Italian culture and heritage.

 

Whether you're an experienced cyclist or just looking to enjoy a great day out, Giro is for everyone. Enjoy Italian-themed rest stops, a post-event lunch, and the camaraderie of a community united for a cause. Help us reach our fundraising goal of $140,000

If you’re unable to participate, please consider donating to the event. All online donations of $100 or more made between May 6 and May 17 will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the Formula 1® Grand Prix du Canada in Montreal at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on Sunday, May 24, 2026. See the full contest rules here.

Plus, don’t forget to drop by the Columbus Centre Reception to buy your raffle tickets for a chance to win a KHS Eastwood hybrid model Men’s XXXL Bicycle, courtesy of ZM Cycle & Fitness. Deadline to purchase tickets is Sunday, May 24 at 1:00pm.

Immigrant Tribute Plaque

Villa Charities

Joseph Arcuri

Joseph Arcuri Appointed as NRStor CEO

We extend our warmest congratulations to Joseph Arcuri on his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of NRStor, effective July 15, 2026. Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, Joseph has been an integral part of NRStor’s leadership team, helping to shape the company’s growth through strong commercial and sales leadership, disciplined financial stewardship, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to their mission. We are proud to have Joseph as Chair of our Board and look forward to his continued leadership and impact, both at NRStor and within our community.

Pasta Making Classes

Bundle & Save on Pasta‑Making Classes – Beginning Tuesday

Learn how to make Nonna’s favourite dishes and save with our pasta-making class bundles. Pasta-Making Classes: Classics of Nonna’s Tableis an eight-session culinary program that begins next week with Tagliatelle al Ragù on Tuesday, May 19 at 6:30pm and continues until July 7. Guided by Chef Luciano Schipano, each hands-on class explores traditional regional dishes, with a tasting, take-home pasta, and a recipe to make it again at home. For the best value, register for all 8 sessions and save $60, or create your own 4-session package. Presented in partnership with Chef Luciano Schipano.


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Join Us for the Villa Charities Annual General Meeting

We invite all members of the community to join us on Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00pm at the Columbus Centre for the Villa Charities Annual General Meeting. The meeting will include brief presentations highlighting the past year, along with 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 Thursday, May 21.

Napoli in Jazz - Alyssa Giammaria

An Evening of Jazz‑Infused Neapolitan Favourites

Vocalist Alyssa Giammaria lends her rich, expressive voice to nostalgic Neapolitan favourites such as “Volare,” “O Sole Mio,” and music from “The Godfather” — all reimagined in stylish jazz arrangements in a memorable concert on Tuesday, May 28 at 7:30pm. With acclaimed pianist Anthony D’Alessandro alongside the accomplished bass work of Paul Novotny, the evening will feature a fresh and elegant take on familiar melodies, blending Neapolitan song tradition with the improvisational spirit of jazz.

 

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Coro San Marco

Celebrate Festa della Repubblica with Coro San Marco

Commemorate Italy’s national holiday on Tuesday, June 2 at 7:00pm with a special evening performance by Coro San Marco. Led by Daniele Colla, the acclaimed choir presents an inspiring program of Italian opera classics by Puccini, Vivaldi, and Verdi, honouring the passion and beauty of Italy’s rich musical tradition. Light refreshments will be served.


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An Italian Immersion Experience for Ages 1–3

Introduce your toddler to Italian language and culture through our Italian Immersion Toddler Program, presented in partnership with Leonardo Da Vinci Academy. Designed for children aged 1 to 3, this fun, play-based program features songs, play, and engaging activities led by a genuine Italian instructor. The program runs until June 15, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and/or Fridays from 9:00 - 10:00am at the Columbus Centre.

 

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Marco DeVuono

Book Your One-on-One Meeting for 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, June 5. 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

Villa Charities Foundation

Giuseppina D_Agostino

Giuseppina D’Agostino Appointed to Federal Court of Canada

Congratulations to Giuseppina D’Agostino on her appointment as a Judge of the Federal Court of Canada. Giuseppina has long been a respected leader in the legal and academic communities, and we are especially proud to recognize her service as a Director on the Villa Charities Foundation Board. Her commitment to excellence, public service, and community leadership strongly reflects the mission and values of Villa Charities. We wish Justice D’Agostino every success as she begins this distinguished new chapter.


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Scholarship Program 2026

Apply Now for the 2026 Scholarship Program

The 2026 Villa Charities Scholarship Program is now accepting applications. Over $287,000 in scholarships have been awarded to deserving students across Canada since the program was launched in 2020. This opportunity is open to students of any cultural background who share Villa Charities' mission of enriching lives by honouring Italian culture and heritage. Five scholarships of $2,000 each will be awarded to Undergraduate level students, and five scholarships of $5,000 each will be awarded to Graduate level students. The application deadline is June 30, 2026.


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BMW Golf Tournament

Support Villa Charities Foundation at the Maranello BMW Golf Open

Calling all golfers! Villa Charities Foundation is proud to once again be the beneficiary of the 8th Annual Maranello BMW Golf Open, taking place on Monday, June 8 at King Valley Golf Club. Enjoy a full day of exceptional golf, premium hospitality, and memorable on- and off-course experiences, including breakfast, lunch, your golf cart, and access to a variety of on-site vendors. Don’t miss the chance to connect with NHL legend Gary Roberts, known for his elite mindset and commitment to peak performance. 


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Columbus Centre

Summer-Student-Special-2026

Last Chance for Students: Join Now & Save Up to $100

Students ages 18 to 25 - this offer won’t last! Looking for the perfect place to stay active this summer? Join the Columbus Centre Athletic Club and enjoy full access to our 11,000 sq. ft. fitness facility, featuring state‑of‑the‑art equipment, dynamic group fitness classes, an indoor pool, running track, and more. Sign up by Sunday, May 31 and pay NO enrollment fees - saving up to $100.

 

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Non Contact Boxing

Helping Children Build Confidence Through Non‑Contact Boxing

Designed for ages 8–12, this Non‑Contact Boxing program teaches the fundamentals through shadowboxing, footwork drills, and fun interactive activities. Classes help children build confidence, strength, coordination, and focus while encouraging teamwork and sportsmanship in a safe, positive environment.

 

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Summer Camp

Summer Starts Here: Camps Your Kids Will Love

Give your child an unforgettable summer at Summer Camp at the Columbus Centre. With more than 40 years of experience, we offer engaging programs for children ages 4–14, led by experienced, specialized staff in a safe and supportive environment. From our All‑In‑One Camp Experience to specialty camps in Italian Language, Cooking, Pickleball, and more, each program is designed to help campers learn, grow, and have fun with confidence. Camps run June 29 to August 28 - find the perfect fit for your child and register today.


Register Now

Dive Into an Unforgettable Pool Party

Celebrate birthdays and special milestones at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club! Our indoor pool rentals create the perfect setting for a fun-filled gathering guests of all ages will love. With certified staff on-site, you can relax knowing your event is fully supervised and worry-free. Visit our website for pricing and booking details.

 

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Villa Colombo Toronto

Paint Prosecco Panini

Get Your Tickets for Paint, Prosecco & Panini

Enjoy a fun and creative evening at the Villa Colombo Toronto Auxiliary’s “Paint, Prosecco & Panini” fundraising event with artist Nick Biagini on Friday, June 12 at 6:00pm. Proceeds support meaningful initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents of Villa Colombo Toronto. Tickets are $75 each and must be purchased by June 5 via etransfer to vcla@villacolombotoronto.on.ca or by phone at 416-789-2113 ext. 2260.


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Villa Colombo Vaughan

VCV Spring Highlight

Spring Highlights from Villa Colombo Vaughan

We’re happy to highlight some of the recent activities and shared moments at Villa Colombo Vaughan. As April came to a close, residents enjoyed a hands-on baking group, creating Easter bread from scratch. From shaping the dough to sharing the warm results, the experience was both creative and comforting. May began on a bright note with a National Lemonade Day social on May 3, held in one of our beautiful courtyards. We also welcomed back DIA’s “Musica Memoria”, a 10‑week program using music appreciation and group singing to support cognitive and emotional well-being. We look forward to creating more meaningful moments together throughout the month of May.

A Message from a Valued Partner

Parent Workshop

The Law: You & Your Kids – A Parent-Focused Seminar

Leaders Lounge presents “The Law: You & Your Kids” on Thursday, May 21 at 6:30pm at the Columbus Centre, a parent-focused seminar created for those raising youth and young adults (ages 13–25). Built around real-life scenarios, expert perspective, and a moderated Q&A, this evening addresses the questions many parents don’t think to ask - until they are faced with them. This is a prevention-first experience designed to provide clarity before situations become consequences. 


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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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