Villa Charities was deeply saddened by the passing of Cav. Marino Toppan, a devoted labour activist, community leader, and passionate advocate for preserving the history and legacy of Italian Canadian workers. For decades, Marino championed the recognition of workers who lost their lives on the job, and it was through his vision, perseverance, and leadership that the Italian Fallen Workers Memorial found its permanent home at Villa Charities. His unwavering commitment ensured that the stories and sacrifices of more than 1,600 Italian Canadian fallen workers would be remembered and honoured for generations to come. A donation can be made to Villa Charities – Memorial Project, in his honour. 

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It was a pleasure to welcome Dr. Andrea Bertozzi, the new Consul General of Italy in Toronto, to Villa Charities yesterday. During his visit, he toured the Columbus Centre and campus, accompanied by Joseph Cafiso, President of COMITES; Marco DeVuono, President and CEO of Villa Charities; Mary Pompili, Vice-President of Marketing and Communications; and Giulio Recchioni, Executive Director of Cultural Programming. We look forward to collaborating with Consul General Bertozzi as we continue our shared commitment to supporting and celebrating the Italian Canadian community.

Celebrate summer with us at the Speducci Summer Fest on Sunday, July 26 from 11:30am to 1:30pm! Gather with friends, family, and neighbours for a lively afternoon featuring delicious speducci, fresh pasta, dancing, and live musical entertainment. This festive community event promises great food and warm summer vibes for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are just $10 so get yours today!

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This new exhibition celebrates the dialogue between Italy’s rich tradition of high craftsmanship and the poetic vision of Alighiero Boetti (1940 – 1994), one of the leading figures of Arte Povera and a key representative of Italian conceptual art. Featuring unique works by master artisans across disciplines, this exhibition running from August 6 to 19, 2026 celebrates timeless craftsmanship, enhanced by the spirit of innovation and creative boldness. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover the essence of authentic ‘Made in Italy.’ Join us for the Opening Night reception on Thursday, August 6 at 7:00pm. Presented in partnership with Maestri Artifex Association, Ambasciata d’Italia a Ottawa and Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Toronto.

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Leading up to our annual celebration of Italian dialects, L’eco dei Dialetti, Dr. Giulio Leghissa will take the audience on a fascinating journey through the linguistic landscape of medieval Italy, guided by one of its greatest figures: Dante Alighieri. Drawing on Dante’s influential treatise “De vulgari eloquentia”, this talk explores the rich variety of regional languages spoken across Italy in Dante’s time and his quest to identify a language worthy of great literature. Don’t miss this fascinating lecture on Tuesday, August 25 at 7:00pm.

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Advance your Italian language skills with our in-person courses for adults, presented in partnership with Leonardo Da Vinci Academy. Choose from Beginner or Intermediate levels and learn in a supportive, small-group setting. Each course includes 12 weekly classes, guided by an experienced instructor and a carefully structured curriculum that builds your grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills step by step. Part of a three-course program running September 2026 – July 2027, this is your opportunity to develop real confidence in Italian. Spaces are limited – Learn more and register today!

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Villa Charities is a proud Amici Sponsor of the 2026 Mississauga Italfest, taking place on August 21 and 22, 2026, at Celebration Square. Mississauga Italfest is one of Ontario’s premier cultural festivals—a vibrant, free outdoor celebration that brings the spirit of Italy to the heart of Mississauga. An FEO Top 100 Festival, the multi-award winning Italfest is held annually and mirrors Italy’s national August holiday Ferragosto - showcasing Italian heritage through food, music, entertainment, and immersive experiences.

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On Friday, September 11 at 7:30pm, acclaimed Brazilian vocalist Fernanda Cunha brings her warmth, elegance, and authenticity to an intimate evening of classic bossa nova. Known for its intimacy, sophistication and gently hypnotic rhythms, this beloved genre comes alive through timeless works by Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Gilberto, Luiz Bonfá, and others. Backed by a stellar ensemble, Cunha’s expressive voice transports audiences to sun‑soaked evenings and the romantic heart of Brazil.

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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, August 7.  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.

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On October 15, 2026, we invite you to 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.

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We’re excited to announce the winner of the Italy travel contest supporting the Villa Charities Italian Canadian Immigrant Tribute Project. Congratulations to Silvia Presenza, winner of two round-trip economy flights to Italy, valued at approximately $3,500.00. Through the Tribute Project, Silvia honoured her parents, Guido Presenza and Lucia D’Attilio, recognizing the courage, sacrifice, and determination that helped shape future generations of their family. Silvia described their journey from Italy to Canada as a story of love, resilience, and hope, and said the tribute plaque serves as a lasting reminder of the dreams they carried across the ocean. Honour your own family’s legacy with a Tribute name plaque today.

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Whether you're picking up an instrument for the first time or continuing your musical journey, the Columbus Centre School of Music offers personalized one-on-one lessons for all ages and skill levels. Explore a wide range of instruments and styles with expert instructors. Registration is now open for the 2026/2027 season.

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Quiet your mind, connect with your inner self, and tune in to your body with our Mindful Meditation class at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Join a welcoming community in a safe, supportive environment as you begin or deepen your meditation practice. Guided sessions help support physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This 45-minute class is designed to promote greater health, energy, mindfulness, relaxation, happiness, empathy, and inner peace. Summer classes are open to both Members and Non-Members.

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Summer Aquafit classes are now underway at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club with spaces still available. Choose from Deep End Aquafit or Arthritic Aqua Training to build strength, increase flexibility, and improve cardiovascular fitness in the pool. Open to Members and Non-Members. Register online or in person at the Membership Office. 

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Looking for a fun and active summer activity? Group swimming lesson registration is still open at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Led by experienced instructors, our lessons help children of all ages and skill levels build confidence, improve technique, and develop essential water safety skills. Don’t miss the opportunity to help your child learn to swim or strengthen their abilities in a fun and supportive environment. Lessons are scheduled between 5:00pm and 8:15pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. To register, please visit our Membership Office in person.

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This summer, try your hand at Pickleball with our clinics and House League on our new outdoor court. Our beginner clinic will introduce players to the rules of pickleball including scoring, strokes and proper grip. Need more motivation? Join the Columbus Centre Athletic Club’s Pickleball House League and compete against fellow Members for a chance to reach the championship match. Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced levels are available.

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We are excited to announce the launch of our new Toddler Program for children aged 18 to 36 months. Designed to support early developmental milestones, this nurturing Montessori environment encourages independence, confidence, and a love of learning. Guided by certified educators, toddlers will participate in hands-on activities that promote language, motor, and social skills. Our program is further enriched through Italian language, introducing children to Italian vocabulary and culture through songs, stories, and daily conversation. Limited spaces are available to maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio. Runs from September to June. Contact admissions@ldva.on.ca to learn more or schedule a tour.

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Music, Community and Summer Fun at Villa Colombo Vaughan

As summer continues at Villa Colombo Vaughan, July has already brought many memorable moments for residents, families, staff, and volunteers. We proudly celebrated Canada Day on July 1 with festive decorations, lively music, delicious treats, and plenty of community spirit. On July 9, residents marked the successful conclusion of the 10-week Musica e Memorie program with a special closing concert led by Dia, celebrating the power of music, connection, and cherished memories. Residents also enjoyed a sweet summer outing to La Paloma where they had authentic Italian gelato and time together outside the home, creating more lasting memories.

A Night at the Opera in Support of Villa Charities Foundation

LDV & CO. invites you to “A Night at the Opera” presented by Amalia Spiga on Friday, October 30, 2026, an elegant evening at the Columbus Centre inspired by the timeless beauty of Italy. Guests will enjoy world-class live opera, exceptional Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and meaningful conversation in an intimate setting, all while supporting the important work of Villa Charities Foundation. Whether you are an opera enthusiast or simply appreciate exceptional cultural experiences, this promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Italian music, heritage, and community. Learn more about the event including our sponsorship opportunities.

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