RBC’s Regional President Christopher Ronald delivering remarks at the gala. (Stoo Metz Photography)
December 2, 2024
This past weekend, we welcomed members of Nova Scotia’s business, philanthropic, and mental health communities to the NYC-inspired RBC Holiday Black Tie Gala in Halifax, raising $275,000 and counting for local mental health programs and initiatives across Nova Scotia.
“No one is immune to mental illness, and that’s why the organizations and groups we fund are so critical,” says Starr Cunningham, President & CEO of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. “They see a need in their communities and address it directly by providing free and easily accessible programming designed specifically for the people living there.”
Showcasing impact
Gala attendees were shown a video highlighting the Sensory Accessible Concert Series, an initiative from Cecilia Concerts that receives funding through the Foundation’s Community Grant program. Free monthly concerts offer an inclusive and welcoming space for people who experience sensory processing challenges associated with mental illnesses, trauma, neurodivergence, intellectual disabilities, and age-related hearing changes or neurodegenerative symptoms. The concert series is hosted by pianist Jennifer King and certified music therapist Anna Plaskett, and co-presented with Halifax Public Libraries.
“These concerts are about sharing the experience of live music and its mood-boosting effects with individuals and families who may not feel comfortable in typical concert settings,” says Cunningham. “The social interaction that many Sensory Accessible attendees gain from the experience is meaningful and helps create a real sense of community.”
A festive kick-off to the holiday season
Guests enjoyed an evening of merry mingling that transported them to the iconic landmarks of Manhattan, with a reception and finely curated dinner featuring holiday tunes, signature mocktails, and festive photo opportunities. Award-winning journalist and bestselling author Steve Murphy guided guests through the program as Master of Ceremonies and led two live auctions. A silent auction and exciting raffles allowed guests to further support the Foundation’s vision of all Nova Scotians thriving in their communities throughout the evening.
The RBC Holiday Black Tie Gala was made possible through generous sponsorships and partnerships with RBC, J&W Murphy Foundation, Steele Auto Group, St. John Ambulance, Advocate Printing and Publishing, CTV Atlantic, Shortstop, RPM Productions, Encore, Glow the Event Store, Moore Suites, Touch of Gold, and Air Canada Foundation.
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Next year’s gala will take place on November 22, 2025. Reserve tickets today!
