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The 38th annual Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada Gala – Teddy Bear Affair was a spectacular evening of elegance, inspiration, and hope. Held at the iconic Fairmont Royal York Hotel on October 5, 2024, the event brought together business leaders, philanthropists, and community champions to support children, youth, and families impacted by the child welfare system.
With Jennifer Valentyne as our host and BMO as the Patron Sponsor, guests enjoyed an unforgettable night filled with meaningful moments, exceptional entertainment, and great food. Thanks to the generosity of our guest, the Foundation raised $1.8 million to support children and youth in and from care.
In recognition of this incredible night, we wanted to share five memorable moments from the Teddy Bear Affair Gala:
1. Our Dynamic Co-Chair Duo: Nicole Stewart Kamanga and Ray Williams
This year, we were privileged to have Ray Williams and Nicole Stewart Kamanga as our Gala Co-Chairs..who brought invaluable expertise and a deep commitment to the role.
Ray, a financial leader with more than 35 years of experience, has been a long-time advocate for sustainable finance, diversity, and community engagement. As co-founder and Chair of the Black Opportunity Fund, he champions social and economic empowerment across Canada.
Nicole, a passionate lawyer and dedicated Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada Board Member, practiced family law for over 15 years, and represented children and youth involved in the child welfare system to ensure that their voices were heard and their needs met. Through her work on the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee and Equity & Inclusion Community Council, Nicole continues to drive positive change for young people in care.
Their leadership was instrumental in the success of this year’s Gala.
2. Keziah’s Secret Armour
The most moving moment of this year’s Gala featured Keziah, A Youth Ambassador and member of the Young People’s Advisory Council, as she read from the children’s book she co-created with the Foundation. Keziah’s Secret Armour was inspired by experiences growing up in the Ontario child welfare system.
During onstage performance, Keziah read the story to her younger as she reflected on the challenges they faced, the resilience they built, and the hope they found along the way. With empathy and wisdom, Kenzia assured her younger self that everything would be okay, leaving the audience inspired by the strength and courage of youth from care. Thank you, Keziah for your courage and bravery.
3. Welcoming our Elected Officials
this year. As Ontario’s Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, The Hon. Michael Parsa plays a crucial role in shaping policies that support children and youth across the province. Her Worship Olivia Chow, Toronto’s first female mayor in decades and a long-time advocate for social justice, has dedicated her career to building a more inclusive city.
Their presence at the event underscores the importance of collaboration between business, community, and government leaders. We are deeply appreciative of their time and support for our mission. Their engagement exemplifies the collective effort needed to create lasting change and brighter futures for young people in care.
4. Bidding for Brighter Futures: Online Auction Raises Over $150,000
One of the evening’s highlights was our online auction, which raised over $150,000 for children and youth involved in the child welfare system. Bidders competed for an exciting selection of prizes, including a signed Connor McDavid jersey, business-class flights from the Air Canada Foundation, and a private dinner for six at Barberian’s
5. All that Glitters to Our Teddy Bear Raffle Winner
A special thank you to Royal de Versailles Jewellers for sponsoring the raffle and donating the stunning grand prize—a dazzling diamond bracelet featuring 486 round full-cut diamonds set in 18k white gold, valued at $45,000.
The Teddy Bear Raffle, a beloved Gala tradition, delighted guests once again, with every ticket purchase accompanied by an adorable stuffed teddy bear, courtesy of Spin Master. This year’s raffle raised essential funds to support children, youth, and families involved in the child welfare system.
Congratulations to our grand prize winner, Marilyn H! Your support, along with that of all our raffle participants, helps bring brighter futures to those who need it most.
A special thanks to all our sponsors.
PATRON SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER
BRONZE
AON CGI Information Systems and Management Consultants Inc Definity Insurance Company Deloitte Element Fleet Management Corporation Fasken GFL Environmental KpMG Lionheart Capital Corporation Morgan Stanley Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP Fasken Power Corporation of Canada Sagen Scotiabank State Street Canada
ALMOST LIVE AUCTION SPONSOR
PRINT MEDIA SPONSOR
PRINTING SPONSOR
TEDDY BEAR RAFFLE SPONSOR
