Luso 16th Annual Gala, presented by Liuna Local 183, was an extraordinary evening, with close to 1,100 guests in attendance; generous sponsors, community supporters, Luso families, and volunteers.
There were moments of joy, and heartfelt support for Luso families, programs, and the upcoming supportive housing project, throughout the night.
Thanks to the team at the Pearson Convention Centre, attendees were treated to an array of delicious food options, complemented by fantastic entertainment provided by The British Legends band.
We were honored to welcome a number of distinguished guests and many other local and regional representatives. Their ongoing support plays an integral role in the success of our mission!
We proudly recognized our Distinguished Contributors for their exceptional generosity throughout 2024. These outstanding supporters received engraved Inuksuks, symbolizing their support for our journey, in support of a brighter future for those with special needs. Honoured were LIUNA Local 183, LIUNA Local 506, LIUNA Local 837, National Bank Independent Network, BPA Financial Group, I-Squared Developments Inc., IUPAT DC 46, The Andrée Rheaume and Robert Fitzhenry Family Foundation, Santos Auto Group, UBC Local 675, Brampton Brick, Marycroft Tile, Portuguese Cultural Centre of Mississauga, and Windmill Group.
We were particularly grateful and moved by a remarkable donation made during the event by Fernando Morales & Manpower Demolition. On stage, Fernando proudly presented Luso with a generous cheque for $50,000. This extraordinary contribution will have a lasting impact on the families we serve, and we are deeply thankful for Fernando’s unwavering commitment to our mission.
Guests heard from John Paterson, a parent of our Toronto participant Ted, who shared his family’s journey with Luso. He spoke passionately about the critical role the community plays in creating a place of hope and comfort for families with special needs, his concern about the future and the need for a Luso Residence.
Heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the evening. The funds raised will directly support Luso’s programs, services, and residential projects, ensuring that we continue to provide care and support to families for years to come—especially as parents and participants age. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the volunteers, organizing committee, sponsors, media partners, Pearson Convention Centre staff, and all those who worked behind the scenes to make this event a success.
We hope to welcome everyone again in 2026 at the 17th Annual Gala Dinner!
