The second week of September in Toronto always brings an outburst of charity extravaganzas, thanks to the parade of stars that TIFF brings to the city. These events are strategically scheduled so that visiting celebrities can participate and support great causes. For the first time this year, the Toronto International Film Festival itself will join the fundraising frenzy by hosting its own event, Friends of TIFF, which will be held on Saturday, September 8 at the lakeside Corus Quay building downtown. “Every year there are a number of fantastic fundraisers during the festival,” says Jennifer Bell, TIFF vice-president of communications. “We felt it was really important for us to take advantage of the buzz and excitement that takes place for 11 days every September. Our Friends of TIFF Gala is a great way for us to showcase all that we do year-round to support our charitable efforts, and it is a wonderful opportunity to bring in a new source of revenue for the organization.” With the help of key sponsors such as RBC and Bell, the enchanting evening might just outdo the other fundraisers. The evening will be set with waterside tents and will have a James Bond theme in order to promote a major exhibition opening in October at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Many celebrities and rising stars are expected to attend, but the guest list has not yet been revealed. Despite the hefty price of $25,000 for a table of 10, the event has already sold more than 30 tables and is expecting a full house. Former festival director Helga Stephenson explains, “With celebrities now eager to lend their influential names to philanthropic causes, many charities have benefited greatly from the stars’ presence in Toronto during the film festival. It is important that TIFF (itself a non-for-profit organization) will now also benefit from the presence of the many stars who come to the festival. This is a way celebrities can give back to an organization that does so much for them all year.” ~Isabelle Khoo
Tags:
charity, Friends of TIFF, fundraiser
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