Lead the Way Gala: Navigating Hope
An Evening to Chart the Course Toward Mental Health Recovery
About the Gala
Join CMHA York Region & South Simcoe for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, impact, and celebration in support of the York Region Mental Health Community Care Centre (The Centre), a first-of-its-kind, 24/7 hub for mental health and addictions care in our community. Together, we will chart a course toward a brighter future for individuals and families across our communities.
- Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026
- Time: 5:30 PM – Cocktail Reception | 6:30 PM – Dinner & Program
- Location: Royal Venetian Mansion, 400 Industrial Pkwy S, Aurora, ON L4G 6W8
- Parking: There is free parking on-site with wheelchair access.
- Dress Code: Cocktail Attire (or what you already have: Dress to Impress!)
Purchase a Ticket or Table – Secure Your Spot at The Gala
Individual Ticket
- Investment: $250
- Includes 1 gala ticket
Table Purchase – Compass Circle
- Investment: $2,500
- Reserved table for 10 guests and name listed in the event program
Make a Donation
If you are unable to attend, you can still make a meaningful impact by purchasing an “Un‑Gala” Ticket as a Beacon of Hope Donor.
- Tax receipts will be issued for your donation, with the option to have your name listed in the event program
- Your support helps light the way for those on their mental health journey
Event Experience
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Royal Venetian Mansion, the gala offers a memorable experience with something for everyone. Every ticket, sponsorship, and donation moves us closer to opening a warm, welcoming and dignified space where people can access the right supports, at the right time, in one central location.
- Cocktail reception with a signature drink to kick off the evening
- Live entertainment and an engaging program hosted by MC Elvira Caria
- Inspiring client impact stories that illustrate the lifesaving difference timely mental health support can make
- Heads & Tails game ($20.00) with a grand prize of two airline tickets, graciously donated by the Air Canada Foundation, valid for travel anywhere Air Canada flies (conditions apply)
- Live and silent auctions featuring unique items and experiences
- Easy table-side giving via QR code so guests can make a gift in seconds
Sponsorship Opportunities
Partnering as a sponsor is a powerful way to demonstrate your organization’s commitment to mental health while enjoying meaningful visibility before, during, and after the event.
North Star Sponsor (Presenting Sponsor)
Investment: $15,000
- Exclusive co‑branding as “Lead the Way Gala: Navigating Hope presented by (Your Company)”
- Two‑minute speaking opportunity during the program and on‑stage acknowledgement by the event emcee
- Premium logo placement on photo backdrop, event materials, website, and social media
- Personal quote included in press release and featured in an e‑newsletter and recognition in all gala‑related media
- VIP table for 10 guests with table logo
True North Sponsor (Venue or Dinner Sponsor)
Investment: $10,000
- Recognition as “True North Sponsor” on all related signage
- Logo on the event website and social media
- Reserved table for 8 guests with table logo
- Recognition in the evening program and on‑screen presentation
Guiding Light Sponsor (Wine or Welcome Cocktail Sponsor)
Investment: $5,000
- Recognition on dining tables or cocktail reception signage
- Logo on the event website and social media
- 4 gala tickets and table logo
- Recognition in the evening program
Harbour Sponsor (Entertainment, Auction, Photo Booth, Print Materials)
Investment: $2,500
- Recognition in the event program and on‑screen
- 2 gala tickets
- Thank‑you mention on social media
About the Centre
The Centre will be an innovative, community-based facility providing 24/7 support for individuals aged 12+ and their families who are experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis. The Centre will offer immediate, compassionate care, crisis stabilization, and seamless connections to ongoing community services, all in one welcoming location.
Your support helps create a future where someone’s first mental health crisis can be their last.
Funds raised through the Lead the Way Gala will:
- Help build and enhance a first-of-its-kind Centre dedicated to mental health and addictions care in York Region, with thoughtful, recovery-focused spaces and programs that promote dignity, connection, and long-term wellness for everyone who walks through the doors
- Expand access to critical mental health and addictions services for people across York Region, South Simcoe and beyond
- Support innovative programs that improve transitions between hospital, community care, and home, reducing repeat crises and emergency visits
Our Sponsors
