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
Watch Rick from IG Wealth Management share his touching story on why he is supporting the Lead the Way Gala to fundraise for the future York Region Mental Health Community Centre.
Our Sponsors
