From May 5 to 26, explore “Past Present Future: L’Arte che Scompare / The Disappearing Arts” by Canadian artist Cindi Emond at the Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery. This four-part series documents endangered cultural arts in Italy—some recognized by UNESCO—through environmental portraiture that reflects Italian heritage, tradition, and national identity in a time of rapid change. Don’t miss the Artist Talk on Saturday, May 10 and Meet & Greet on Saturday, May 17. Presented in partnership with Contact Photography Festival.

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Explore Italy’s rich history 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” (De Antiquissima Italorum Sapientia). Trace the country’s development from its mythic beginnings to the present day, highlighting the poets, artists, political leaders, military figures, and spiritual thinkers who shaped the Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance eras. Part 1 takes place on Tuesday, May 13, followed by Part 2 on Tuesday, May 20.

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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.

Indulge in the culinary traditions of Emilia Romagna, one of Italy’s most celebrated food regions, at our next Taste of Italy dinner on Friday, May 30 at 6:00pm. Enjoy a four-course meal featuring handcrafted dishes made with regional ingredients—from savoury cured meats to rich, 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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Don’t miss your chance to be part of this month-long celebration of culture and heritage that brings the spirit of Italy to life. From music to comedy, authors to artwork, explore our 2025 Italian Heritage Month programming line-up for June—and get your tickets today!

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Acclaimed opera singers Sara Papini (soprano) and Romulo Delgado (tenor), and pianist Sabatino Vacca, take the stage for Il Canto Italiano on Tuesday, June 10 at 7:30pm. Enjoy a moving evening of opera arias, Neapolitan classics, and beloved Italian songs that celebrate the beauty and passion of Italian music.

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Come one, come all, to a circus extravaganza! Step right up and meet ringmaster Dame Shirley Happening, your drag ‘hostess with the mostess.’ On Friday, June 13 at 8:00pm, within the wondrous three-ring circus of life, Shirley will lead you on an unforgettable high-wire act of song, dance, dazzling costumes, comedy, and audience antics. Get ready to participate in the merriment of the Circus Cabaret – in Shirley style! With a special guest appearance by Tony Astri.

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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, June 6. 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.

Anthony Messina

Ex-Officio (Villa Colombo Seniors Centre (Vaughan) Inc. Di Poce Centre Chair), Villa Charities Inc. 

Anthony Messina is the Head of Private Wealth, including the President of Guardian Partners and Managing Director for Guardian Capital Advisors LP. Previous roles at Guardian included President and CEO of Worldsource Securities and Worldsource Financial Management. Prior to joining Guardian in 2016, he was instrumental in building and growing I3 Advisors, the predecessor to BNY Mellon Wealth Management Canada’s outsourced chief investment officer (OCIO) business.



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Villa Charities is now accepting applications for our 2025 Scholarship Program! This opportunity is available to students of any heritage who help further Villa Charities’ mission of enriching lives through experiences and services that honour Italian culture and heritage. Five awards of $1,500 are available to Undergraduate students and five awards of $2,500 are available to Graduate level students. Deadline to apply is June 30, 2025.

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Attention students ages 18 to 25! Looking for somewhere to work out this summer? Look no further than the Columbus Centre Athletic Club! Explore our 11,000 sq. ft. gym with state-of-the-art equipment, group fitness classes, an indoor pool, running track, tennis, squash, and pickleball courts. Sign up by Saturday, May 31 and pay no enrollment fee—a savings of up to $80! Don't miss out on this limited-time student offer.

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Experience the benefits of cold therapy with our new state-of-the-art cold plunges, now available at the Columbus Centre Men’s Health Club. Cold plunging helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support 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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For over 40 years, the Columbus Centre has offered high-quality summer camps for children ages 4 to 13. Led by experienced and dedicated staff, our camps provide a fun and supportive environment that encourages learning, creativity, and new friendships. Each program is designed to engage campers, support their growth, and create lasting summer memories. Summer Camps run from June 30 to August 22, 2025.

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Make the most of the season on our outdoor tennis and pickleball courts, now open daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm through October 31. An Outdoor Court Membership is required to book court time, and registration is open to both Members and Non-Members. To sign up, contact fitness@villacharities.com or call 416-789-7011 ext. 213.

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Treat Mom to a wellness experience at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Choose from Massage Therapy, Hot Stone Therapy, or Modern Cupping Therapy—each delivered by our experienced professionals to help ease tension, restore balance, and support overall well-being. Gift certificates are available for all wellness services.

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Whether you're planning a birthday, family gathering, or just looking for a fun way to bring people together, private pool rentals at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club offer a unique experience for all ages. Certified staff are on-site to ensure an enjoyable and safe event. For booking details and pricing, contact gungar@villacharities.com.

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Reach your fitness goals with one-on-one support from our professional Personal Trainers. Each session includes tailored exercise screening, goal setting, and health education to help you stay motivated and on track. Whether you're getting started or looking to improve your performance, our Personal Trainers are here to guide you every step of the way.

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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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Spring celebrations were in full swing at Villa Colombo Vaughan this April. Residents marked National Walking Day with cheerful strolls around the Casas, and on Palm Sunday, the community gathered for Holy Mass followed by a successful Easter Lily & Bake Sale. The event raised over $2,800 in support of resident programs. The month’s activities also featured community outreach programs facilitated by RBC volunteers, the celebration of the annual Maria Di Salvo Awards honouring our dedicated and hardworking staff, and a joyful Easter event complete with festive games and a surprise visit from the Easter Bunny.