FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2008
2008 Blossom Ball celebrates Toronto’s Chinese community and its contributions to United Way
TORONTO — Hosted by CTV anchor Pauline Chan, the 2008 United Way Blossom Ball gala celebrated Toronto’s Chinese community and its contributions to United Way at the Fairmont Royal York hotel this evening.
Team Ryouko, a world-class martial arts dance group, dazzled guests with their unique brand of acrobatics and extreme dancing, while the Wyndham Regency Orchestra jazzed up the evening with performances throughout the night.
“The 2008 Blossom Ball was a celebration of the generosity and dedication of the Chinese community and its partnership with United Way. The gala brought people together to help United Way build a city where everyone can thrive in strong, healthy neighbourhoods,” said United Way Blossom Ball Co-Chairs Hugo Lam, Justin Poy and Reed Ong.
In addition to the spectacular entertainment, fabulous silent auction items totalling more than $176,000 were up for grabs including gorgeous jewelry and assorted photography packages. Guests also had the opportunity to purchase tickets for an exciting raffle prize — a five-day Dubai vacation package.
The Blossom Ball is one of the top social events in the Chinese community and has raised over $2.5 million for United Way Toronto’s Community Fund since 1999. The Community Fund supports a network of 200 health and social service agencies, including 48 which directly serve Toronto’s Chinese community.
“United Way is proud of its partnership with the Chinese community and the work we do together to build a better city,” said Lyn Whitham, Vice-President of Marketing and Communications, United Way Toronto. “It is with the tremendous support of our volunteers, donors, businesses and community agencies that we are able to host events like the Blossom Ball, which help us improve lives and build strong neighbourhoods across Toronto.”
Established in 1956, United Way Toronto is a registered charity and community impact organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening neighbourhoods across Toronto. United Way identifies needs and takes action to create a better, safer, stronger city through research, partnerships and support of a network of 200 health and social service agencies.
For more information, please contact:
Conny Lo
Manager, New Markets
United Way Toronto
416 777 1444 ex 391
clo@uwgt.org
Joanna King
Public Relations Officer
United Way Toronto
416 777 1444 ex 386
jking@uwgt.org