April 18, 2017
Ottawa, O N – On M arch 30th, 2017 at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre, the Ottawa New Year’s Eve Charity Ball held an invitational luncheon to kickoff their third year of raising funds for local charities that support children with autism and special needs. Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch and short presentation where Children At Risk and Journey House were
announced as beneficiaries for the 2017 Ottawa New Year’s Eve Charity Ball. This year’s charity ball will be the final marquee event for Ottawa’s Canada 150 celebrations and will be held in the grand ballroom of the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre on December 31st with the cocktail hour starting at 6pm.
Announced as this year’s honorary chairs are M ark and Patricia Filoso, owners of Alpha Energy Systems. M ark and Patricia are the proud parents of three children one of which has been diagnosed with down syndrome. “Raising the awareness in the community about individuals with special needs and their families is a passion that comes from our hearts”, stated Patricia in her speech to the guests at the luncheon. “We are optimistic of a future with inclusion for all and want to support in whatever way possible”. The couple’s dedication to the charity balls efforts is a tremendous one. They have decided to annually contribute to the event by way of major gifts and in kind donations and services exceeding $10,000. Patricia has also joined the committee as executive administrator.
Children At Risk President Mark Lalonde emphasized the importance of events such as the charity ball by stating, “Children at Risk isn’t funded at all by the government but by generous contributions, private donors and events such as these help us with programs like Kaleidoscope” a summer camp offered through the organization. Emcee of the luncheon, Chris Brown, noted
last year’s gross amount raised was over $43,000 and that this year’s goal is a projected $100,000. “Looking at the numbers from the back end and with the great support we have from the community I think we are well on our way to meet our goals for this year”, says ONYECB Executive Director Horace Roxborough.
Following the presentation guests had a chance to network and share their thoughts and enthusiasm for the year. Amongst the attendees were representatives from media sponsors Boom 99.7 radio. “We are happy to be part of the ONYECB committee’s
efforts and we look forward to working with them again this year”, said Boom’s Program Director, Stephanie Hunter, in her statement to the attending guests. Boom has been named exclusive media Sponsors for a second year in a row. Returning as Master of Ceremonies at this year’s charity ball will be none other than Dylan Black, assistant music director and long
time announcer at the station.
More information and details about the 3rd annual Ottawa New Year’s Eve Charity Ball can be found at:
http:// www.ottawanewyearseve.ca
About Chi ldren at Risk :
Children at Risk was incorporated as a charitable organization in 1979. It provides services in the Greater Ottawa area to families with children diagnosed within the Autism Spectrum Disorders. These children are “at risk” of not developing to their full potential if they do not receive early intensive intervention implemented skilfully and diligently. By developing a child’s skills to overcome behavioural, communication and social problems at the onset, they stand to achieve their full potential. This will enhance family life and community participation.
Journey House:
Journey House is a not-for-profit organization, awaiting charitable status that incorporates a supported independent living model within a residential community for people with diagnosed exceptionalities. In keeping with a truly person-centered and
relational approach to supporting desegregated living, the residents are encouraged to become integrated and connected with their community through a range of innovative daily activities that enhance a sense of belonging and personal identity.
Media Contact :
Sophia Jacob
ONYECB Communications Director
[email protected]
613.282.2922
Photography Credit: John Smith Photography
