Makes a difference in the community - that is what Pink in the City does really well.
Pink in the City inspires the community across the country to find ways to make a difference in their neighbourhoods and encourage partnerships with companies to promote community responsibility.
We all play a key role in helping communities succeed, and without the enormous contributions of volunteers, charitable donations and the generous act of giving, this would not be possible.
Each contributor understands the importance of volunteer efforts and the reward of giving back. Paying it forward is just one act Pink in the City does with great passion. They worked hard all year to make a lasting impact, give their time to a worthy cause and with great delight greet all their guests attending the sold out Spring Charity Ball 2015. A celebration of everyone's efforts - big and small. An entire community brought together to connect and celebrate the positive & exemplary contributions of everyone.
Spring Charity Ball 2015 was co-hosted by our lovely Cindy Sherwin and handsome Max Harrold from CTV. An annual event launched to raise funds and bring the community together to celebrate our survivors and honour those that have lost the battle. An evening of glitz and glamour. An elegant venue at Embassy Plaza to delight all guests. Pink Carpet hosted by Dorothy Rhau, the beautiful and talented stand up comedian. Chris Dedes, proudly represented Domaine Sigalas with their specialty Santorini wine. Shmink Cosmetics team onsite to offer make up touch ups. A Team of Photograpers proudly captured event highlights included Denis Amore from Amore Photography, Mike Calomiris from Michael's Photography Studio, Nicholas Housakos, Jay Santos and Elisa Parado from Lotus Photography and Hughes Poirier from Versatilefoto. The talented Claudia from Creme et Chocolat for the original Pink in the City cake. Operetta Designs and Elegant Seat Covers for the event decor, Patricia from Elektra Floral Designs from Montreal for the beautiful flowers decorating all of the lobby areas. Fleuriste Florabelle from Laval for all the lovely flowers decorating our tables Our special guest speakers included Dr. Meterissian - Professor of surgery and Director of Cedars breast clinic, Jeanette Kelly, from CBC and Deborah Bridgman, Breast Stories. Talented Canadian Artist Katerina Mertikas to personally present her painting. Pink in the City Organizing committee had activities planned all evening to delight our guests with a silent auction, raffles, WestJet balloon pop, live auction hosted by the incredible Lee Haberkorn from Virgin Radio 96. Entertainment by the fantastic Alter Ego music band and exceptional DJ Kenny Chan. Event Sponsors Nick Papagiannis, Absolute Disco and John Vassiliou,VideoVibes. CTV & Marty from Laval news for covering our event, not to mention, all of our participating and attending guests, sponsors, partners and supporters, who were present to make our event a huge success.
Please refer to Pink in the City Facebook page for all highlights, participating sponsors and updates throughout the year on Pink in the City activities, including all event photos posted : https://www.facebook.com/PinkInTheCityCanada?ref=hl
Thanks to all of our contributors, we were able to raise 125,000$ to benefit the MUHC Cedars breast clinic and the Montreal Neurological Institute. Bravo to all that had a part in this successful fundraising journey !
Something special to be noted is the spirit of the community partnership and support. The overwhelming contributions and the good work done by all is what makes the difference at the end of the day. Everyone has something to offer. As you can see from above, everyone who did offer their time, their services, their talent, their product, their support - is what made Pink in the City successful.
With our network of sponsors, partners, supporters and volunteers we will continue to make a difference and evolve programs that will make a lasting impact for our community and to all of our participating schools !
The power of leading by example is like no other. We are very proud of our passionate supporters, volunteers, sponsors and partners, the role models who continue to make a difference.
Thank You for your continuous support and for making our 2015 a sold out event !
Bravo to the 2015 Pink in the City Organizing Committee !
Join us May 6th, 2016 for our 10th anniversary Spring Charity Ball 2016
Inspirational stories and strategies for women of all ages to balance career, home, family, community and simply ordinary everyday life. Share relevant insights and personal life experiences to strengthen skills for your professional and personal development. Parenting 101 at it's best...
Sunday, 31 May 2015
Thursday, 30 April 2015
Journal # 4 Pink in the City....Just for you
Nothing makes me more proud than to be able to give the gift of life.
What started as an idea, from a little boy, has taken off to a non profit organization. An entire team of talented, passionate and driven volunteers inspiring the community, working together toward a common vision. Wow, who would have ever thought that was possible.
What has been incredible to see is the individual commitment each person makes to work as a team. Everyone working together to accomplish so much. Trusting one another to make it happen, coming together to create a beautiful story, one that gives the gift of life to so many wonderful people.
Each member brings their strength, and their can do attitude to make a difference. All have a shared understanding of the importance of giving.
There is a great quote by Maya Angelou......."I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel "
Each time you make someone feel special, appreciated and respected, they will not forget.
Pink in the City does just that. Takes great pride in what they do, makes others proud, inspired and a desire to be the best you can be.
After many months of preparation this past year, it is truly gratifying when it all comes together, all the hard work, all the challenges, all the sleepless nights, the countless hours of follow-up. Our greatest reward is to give back to something we have identified that is truly important to us. Over 200 sponsors, countless volunteers and supporters are by our side to make it all possible for us.
We are grateful.
In the last 9 years, we have raised over 200,000$. Every year, host various events throughout the year to raise awareness through Model the way program and activities. We have many key accomplishments and lots to be proud, lots to be grateful. Join us May 1, 2015......to celebrate with us for our our biggest event of the year....www.pinkinthecity.ca !
You drive us and give us strength to do what we do for so many.......Thank You Pink in the City for taking this little idea and embracing it with everything you got ! Thanks to all of our volunteers and supporters, this would not be possible - Pink in the City exists because of all the special people that makes it a success - join us to celebrate our survivors and honour all those we love !
I will leave you with this special note from a very dear friend....
"Just for you"
"Where to begin ? I first met Denise in 1976 and she offered me her friendship instantly. Not long
after, Bobby became my friend as well. It was evident from day one that I had become friends
with two very extraordinary people. They have always had great Team Spirit and ben generous
and giving. We have watched each other mature and have families of our own, sometimes from
more of a distance than I would have preferred, but I could always count on that Christmas or birthday card from my dear friends, the Vourtzoumis family. When I first heard about Lawrence
participating in the Shave to Save Program, and then the friendly competition between the brothers, I was not surprised. There could not be any doubt that these two wonderful people would instil their high morals and values to their children. And if that was not enough, they created Pink in the City. Giving their time and support, and that of other family members and friends, for this very worthwhile cause. They continue to raise much needed funds through various fundraisers and activities. How they managed to do this while maintaining busy careers and a happy home, is beyond me.
I do know that, for this and so much more, I am exceedingly grateful. Not only to call them my lifelong friends, but also because I am a 13year Breast Cancer Survivor and without good, no....AWESOME people like the Vourtzoumis Family, that statement might not be possible.
Thank You for all you have done to raise funds and awareness and most of all, thank you Denise for welcoming me into your circle all those years ago at BBHS"
xo
Dawna Tolbart,
Lasalle, Quebec
What started as an idea, from a little boy, has taken off to a non profit organization. An entire team of talented, passionate and driven volunteers inspiring the community, working together toward a common vision. Wow, who would have ever thought that was possible.
What has been incredible to see is the individual commitment each person makes to work as a team. Everyone working together to accomplish so much. Trusting one another to make it happen, coming together to create a beautiful story, one that gives the gift of life to so many wonderful people.
Each member brings their strength, and their can do attitude to make a difference. All have a shared understanding of the importance of giving.
There is a great quote by Maya Angelou......."I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel "
Each time you make someone feel special, appreciated and respected, they will not forget.
Pink in the City does just that. Takes great pride in what they do, makes others proud, inspired and a desire to be the best you can be.
After many months of preparation this past year, it is truly gratifying when it all comes together, all the hard work, all the challenges, all the sleepless nights, the countless hours of follow-up. Our greatest reward is to give back to something we have identified that is truly important to us. Over 200 sponsors, countless volunteers and supporters are by our side to make it all possible for us.
We are grateful.
In the last 9 years, we have raised over 200,000$. Every year, host various events throughout the year to raise awareness through Model the way program and activities. We have many key accomplishments and lots to be proud, lots to be grateful. Join us May 1, 2015......to celebrate with us for our our biggest event of the year....www.pinkinthecity.ca !
You drive us and give us strength to do what we do for so many.......Thank You Pink in the City for taking this little idea and embracing it with everything you got ! Thanks to all of our volunteers and supporters, this would not be possible - Pink in the City exists because of all the special people that makes it a success - join us to celebrate our survivors and honour all those we love !
I will leave you with this special note from a very dear friend....
"Just for you"
"Where to begin ? I first met Denise in 1976 and she offered me her friendship instantly. Not long
after, Bobby became my friend as well. It was evident from day one that I had become friends
with two very extraordinary people. They have always had great Team Spirit and ben generous
and giving. We have watched each other mature and have families of our own, sometimes from
more of a distance than I would have preferred, but I could always count on that Christmas or birthday card from my dear friends, the Vourtzoumis family. When I first heard about Lawrence
participating in the Shave to Save Program, and then the friendly competition between the brothers, I was not surprised. There could not be any doubt that these two wonderful people would instil their high morals and values to their children. And if that was not enough, they created Pink in the City. Giving their time and support, and that of other family members and friends, for this very worthwhile cause. They continue to raise much needed funds through various fundraisers and activities. How they managed to do this while maintaining busy careers and a happy home, is beyond me.
I do know that, for this and so much more, I am exceedingly grateful. Not only to call them my lifelong friends, but also because I am a 13year Breast Cancer Survivor and without good, no....AWESOME people like the Vourtzoumis Family, that statement might not be possible.
Thank You for all you have done to raise funds and awareness and most of all, thank you Denise for welcoming me into your circle all those years ago at BBHS"
xo
Dawna Tolbart,
Lasalle, Quebec
Wednesday, 15 April 2015
Pink in the City Journal #3.....Thank You to all the amazing volunteers 2015 !
This week signifies recognition for the countless volunteers we have not just for pink in the city, but for all the volunteers everywhere. I am really lucky to work first hand with some incredible and special people. Their ongoing committment, their passion, drive and energy is just contagious. There are really no words that best describe what they do, but do know for a fact that they are the strongest, kindest and most compassionate people.
I am so proud of Pink in the City and the dedication to the advancement of young leaders and volunteers. Pink in the City encourages you to build volunteer active communites and engage young students to take an active role towards creating leaders, mentors & volunteers to bring positive change and participate in community type outeach programs. Pink in the City focuses on leadership development, mentorship & volunteerism with school partners send a strong message.....
Volunteerism has always been a big part of my life and mu children's life - to promote goodness and improve human quality of life ! I would not have it any other way. Each one of us can contribute in some way.....reach out to someone,
Over the last 9 years, Pink in the City has donated time and energy thanks to all the volunteers to raise awareness, fundraise and model the way in the community. .
Thanks to all of our supporters and volunteers that believe in our cause, believe that we can make a difference and believe that we can create success stories in our very own neighborhoods, we have a story we are proud of.
As I look back over the year, I am just amazed but not surprised at our accomplishments. What began as a fundraising initiative and family activity, has evolved into a non profit foundation with a network reaching out to our family, friends, breast cancer survivors and community partners helping us to create awareness, fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care and most of all, together make a difference...however small or big....each of your actions makes a huge difference.
Hardly a day passes without one of our members working on making Pink in the city known, share our story and talk about how special this is to us. It is not easy as you can imagine, but when we see how far we have come, it inspires us to go further. We have a goal to raise a minimal of 125,000 May 1st....can we do it ?? we can with alot of hard work and endless hours of follow-up and planning....we are almost there !
Our vision is to continue to inspire you by sharing with you our stories, challenges and successes . As we get ready for our big event, we will certainly keep you up to date with our progress and hoping that you will also be able to help us in your special way - and every lit bit helps....we have had angels helping us everywhere....we are grateful !
Volunteers offer a tremendous amount of extra hours every day to volunteer- and this in addition to all of their responsibilities. It is certainly not easy and that is why we are very grateful when our network reaches out to us on how they can help.
It has been action packed, ask any volunteer and they will say the same. The team behind the scenes has one common goal, and that is to graciously accept the challenge. We are honored they have and thank each member of this team and all volunteers whole heartedly.
You are all so special and amazing, Thank you for all your contributions, most of all, your caring and loving personalities !
Tuesday, 7 April 2015
Pink in the City Journal #2....authentic connections !
Teachers play an incredible role in a students upbringing. They inspire, encourage and support them unconditionally. They are involved and have a great gift to make a positive difference for young students. They not only teach, but they are great mentors and bring out the best in them. I know first hand some very special ladies that did just that. There are no words to express my gratitude to them. When I saw the bond between Lawrence and his teachers, I knew he was in good hands. They just had an amazing positive attitude not only with Lawrence, but with all their students. Teachers really have the power to influence and these three ladies did just that. They continue to be role models and make a huge difference in the lives of children, I know they did for Lawrence.
That first year in 2006 when Lawrence decided to shave his head for breast cancer, they were by his side in every way, at school and out. How do you thank these special teachers that shape the minds of our children ? I know I am very grateful for them being a part of our lives and most important, Lawrence's. I am hoping all parents out there, that have incredible teachers, that you take the time to thank and let them know how important they are in your child's life.
Parents and teachers are like partners when it comes to teaching - both at school and home. If this partnership and understanding does not exist, it will make it very difficult to work together. Everyone has a role to play in raising a child and if teachers and parents work together, the best interests of the child are addressed. I am thankful that throughout the school years of all my 3 boys were blessed with the most amazing teachers.
When I met Lawrence's teachers - Ms Daklaras, Ms Janzic and Ms Verardi - I knew right away, they were not just ordinary teachers. They had made a connection with Lawrence, and they believed in him. What I found amazing was that they were patient, inspired the kids and made the teaching subject interesting. They worked hard with the students, but they also worked hard to make school fun. These ladies were exceptional....and went above the call of duty - best teachers ever ! Who else would come out on halloween morning really early, before starting school to be there for Lawerence ? They did, they were there proudly standing by his side at fairview shopping centre for his first shave. When teachers care enough, it is admirable. Thank you for doing such a great job at teaching our kids and for being the caring and incredible teachers we so want every student to have. Encouraging young students to be involved in the community and part of a charity is exactly what everyone should be doing. These teachers did their part well, they showed great encouragement and confidence in Lawrence.
My advice to all parents is to visit the classrooms, participate in school activities and become involved with your son or daughter's school. Sometimes, parents don't meet on a regular basis with the school staff or participate in the orientation meetings, parent-teacher meetings or just monthly school meetings - this can definitely make a difference in the success of your child at school. Parent involvement is key for student achievement. Parents and teachers working together have the biggest impact - get involved and always remember you do have the greatest influence.
So it is with pleasure to celebrate the value of what students like Lawrence have done for the community and the people behind the scenes that have supported with enthusiasm and passion !
They bring true value to model the way...
That first year in 2006 when Lawrence decided to shave his head for breast cancer, they were by his side in every way, at school and out. How do you thank these special teachers that shape the minds of our children ? I know I am very grateful for them being a part of our lives and most important, Lawrence's. I am hoping all parents out there, that have incredible teachers, that you take the time to thank and let them know how important they are in your child's life.
Parents and teachers are like partners when it comes to teaching - both at school and home. If this partnership and understanding does not exist, it will make it very difficult to work together. Everyone has a role to play in raising a child and if teachers and parents work together, the best interests of the child are addressed. I am thankful that throughout the school years of all my 3 boys were blessed with the most amazing teachers.
When I met Lawrence's teachers - Ms Daklaras, Ms Janzic and Ms Verardi - I knew right away, they were not just ordinary teachers. They had made a connection with Lawrence, and they believed in him. What I found amazing was that they were patient, inspired the kids and made the teaching subject interesting. They worked hard with the students, but they also worked hard to make school fun. These ladies were exceptional....and went above the call of duty - best teachers ever ! Who else would come out on halloween morning really early, before starting school to be there for Lawerence ? They did, they were there proudly standing by his side at fairview shopping centre for his first shave. When teachers care enough, it is admirable. Thank you for doing such a great job at teaching our kids and for being the caring and incredible teachers we so want every student to have. Encouraging young students to be involved in the community and part of a charity is exactly what everyone should be doing. These teachers did their part well, they showed great encouragement and confidence in Lawrence.
My advice to all parents is to visit the classrooms, participate in school activities and become involved with your son or daughter's school. Sometimes, parents don't meet on a regular basis with the school staff or participate in the orientation meetings, parent-teacher meetings or just monthly school meetings - this can definitely make a difference in the success of your child at school. Parent involvement is key for student achievement. Parents and teachers working together have the biggest impact - get involved and always remember you do have the greatest influence.
So it is with pleasure to celebrate the value of what students like Lawrence have done for the community and the people behind the scenes that have supported with enthusiasm and passion !
They bring true value to model the way...
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1st Shave |
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Lawrence with his 3 teachers |
Sunday, 5 April 2015
Pink in the City Journal #1....getting started
Wow, I cannot believe how fast things are going. As we get closer to the event that holds a special place in my heart, I think it is important to share with you my thoughts on our Pink in the City story, it's evolution, what has been accomplished and simply, an account of all the hard work and hours of dedication from all who have had a major part in making not only the event a success, but what it stands for. With less than 4 weeks left, it's really important to note and share what everyone is thinking and feeling , and maybe by sharing my personal story, it can make a big difference for someone out there. I am hoping that by writing about my experiences it will help many out there see opportunities on what they can do, how they can contribute.
So much has taken place in the last 9 years, and although, lots will be shared the night of the event, this is a great way for me to share what makes Pink in the City special. For the entire month of April, I will be keeping a journal of our accomplishments, challenges, great moments I want to remember and a diary of valuable lessons I have learned. I am hoping that by sharing my thoughts leading up to our Pink in the City Spring Charity Ball 2015, it will enlighten my readers and help future generations know how we started, why and what continues to drive us !
9 years ago, when Lawrence decided that he wanted to make a difference for countless breast cancer patients - he had 12 days to raise his money. At the age of 11, he had a purpose. A purpose to achieve something he put his mind to. He knew that he had a difficult goal ahead for himself, but he was determined and was not giving up. He put everything he had into this small act of kindness. Deep down, he knew that all of us have an essential role in contributing to the success of the ongoing fight against cancer and disease. God knows that there are plenty of dreadful diseases out there, The satisfaction that Lawrence and our entire family felt at the end of the 12 days was one of a kind. You can help make a difference for someone fighting, There is no greater feeling than that. It has been an amazing journey and what has been really clear is that we can make any goal or dream a reality with determination and dedication.
We all have friends and family that have been affected by cancer, many are surviving with treatment and sadly many have lost the battle. Pink in the City is here to support those fighting. Proud to have donated over the past 9 years thousands of dollars to fund various programs to support in the fight against breast cancer. Remembering back in 2006 little Lawrence at the age of 11 who took it upon himself to recruit his family and friends to help him in his journey to make his contribution in the way he knew best. I was just amazed to watch him quickly put together his cans and jars....dressed them up with boas and started to let everyone he knew about his venture. Nothing was going to stand in his way.
You might ask, how is this significant for Pink in the City today ?? My take away from all of this is when you set yourself a goal, whatever that may be, with lots of determination, you would be surprised how much you can achieve. Thanks to incredible donors, the fact that they chose to give donations and participate in our cause was just amazing. People came together to help us reach our target. Everyone made a contribution and everyone cared enough to make a difference. Our Spring Ball is fast approaching and in 25 days will be celebrating a community that has come together, most of all, celebrating all of the efforts demonstrated towards humanity. We are down to the wire, if Lawrence can start a 12 day fundraising goal to raise 2000, what can an entire community do in 25 days ??
So, the challenge is on and ask all of our supporters, friends and families to help us get the word out ! Please join us to support the actions Lawrence demonstrated to raise funds. The actions many in our community demonstrate every single day. The actions Pink in the City team has been working all through the year. The satisfaction to give back will be one of a kind, just like it was for Lawrence.
Thank you to all reaching out to us.....those we know and many we don't know. Just has been humbling with the overwhelming support, words cannot describe.
Who would have ever thought, that a simple request would have us all so proud today. I know I am extremely proud to know that what we all are doing supports each survivor in a very special way.
No matter how young you are....you can make a difference....
So much has taken place in the last 9 years, and although, lots will be shared the night of the event, this is a great way for me to share what makes Pink in the City special. For the entire month of April, I will be keeping a journal of our accomplishments, challenges, great moments I want to remember and a diary of valuable lessons I have learned. I am hoping that by sharing my thoughts leading up to our Pink in the City Spring Charity Ball 2015, it will enlighten my readers and help future generations know how we started, why and what continues to drive us !
9 years ago, when Lawrence decided that he wanted to make a difference for countless breast cancer patients - he had 12 days to raise his money. At the age of 11, he had a purpose. A purpose to achieve something he put his mind to. He knew that he had a difficult goal ahead for himself, but he was determined and was not giving up. He put everything he had into this small act of kindness. Deep down, he knew that all of us have an essential role in contributing to the success of the ongoing fight against cancer and disease. God knows that there are plenty of dreadful diseases out there, The satisfaction that Lawrence and our entire family felt at the end of the 12 days was one of a kind. You can help make a difference for someone fighting, There is no greater feeling than that. It has been an amazing journey and what has been really clear is that we can make any goal or dream a reality with determination and dedication.
We all have friends and family that have been affected by cancer, many are surviving with treatment and sadly many have lost the battle. Pink in the City is here to support those fighting. Proud to have donated over the past 9 years thousands of dollars to fund various programs to support in the fight against breast cancer. Remembering back in 2006 little Lawrence at the age of 11 who took it upon himself to recruit his family and friends to help him in his journey to make his contribution in the way he knew best. I was just amazed to watch him quickly put together his cans and jars....dressed them up with boas and started to let everyone he knew about his venture. Nothing was going to stand in his way.
You might ask, how is this significant for Pink in the City today ?? My take away from all of this is when you set yourself a goal, whatever that may be, with lots of determination, you would be surprised how much you can achieve. Thanks to incredible donors, the fact that they chose to give donations and participate in our cause was just amazing. People came together to help us reach our target. Everyone made a contribution and everyone cared enough to make a difference. Our Spring Ball is fast approaching and in 25 days will be celebrating a community that has come together, most of all, celebrating all of the efforts demonstrated towards humanity. We are down to the wire, if Lawrence can start a 12 day fundraising goal to raise 2000, what can an entire community do in 25 days ??
So, the challenge is on and ask all of our supporters, friends and families to help us get the word out ! Please join us to support the actions Lawrence demonstrated to raise funds. The actions many in our community demonstrate every single day. The actions Pink in the City team has been working all through the year. The satisfaction to give back will be one of a kind, just like it was for Lawrence.
Thank you to all reaching out to us.....those we know and many we don't know. Just has been humbling with the overwhelming support, words cannot describe.
Who would have ever thought, that a simple request would have us all so proud today. I know I am extremely proud to know that what we all are doing supports each survivor in a very special way.
No matter how young you are....you can make a difference....
Sunday, 8 March 2015
Celebrate each other...
Women of all ages play a significant role in our lives.
These are the women who have insipired us, the women who have paved the way, the women who have given us courage and the women who have confidence in our abilities. These are the same women we need to Thank and let them know how important they are, have been and continue to be. Their contributions have simply made an incredible difference.
I can think of many inspiring women in my life that have taught me that anything is possible. All you need is a positive attitude, a willingness to succeed, the passion and the sparkle. You can really be or do anything you put your mind to and no one should ever forget that. Women are talented, focused, driven and smart. Have confidence in yourself. These women are daughters, mothers, sisters, aunts, friends, and wives who make a huge difference in the lives of our families, in our workplace and in our community. These same women bring about change, and set the bar for all other women. Women help women persevere , they make us laugh, they make us strong. They are the role models who inspire us, challenge us and influence how we think, how we act and how we grow up. Yes, women are special. We have lots to be proud of, lots to celebrate, and lots to be grateful.
Lets celebrate and honor the women that have been an incredible inspiration, lets take the time to recognize all their achievements and lets take the time to appreciate what they do and most important, lets take the time to say Thank You.
Thank you to all the ladies in my life that have made a huge difference for me throughout the year.
I admire successful women. I admire women that balance career, family and community. I admire women that model the way - every single day. I admire their stamina.
We can all learn from each other. Treasure the lesson and treasure the friendship.
International Women's day reminds us that we have many special ladies who really have changed our lives.
Celebrate each other !
Saturday, 7 February 2015
The Ribbon....
The ribbon has become a national symbol..... to show your support. There are many awareness ribbon colors' and meanings - they all represent many different things ! Although they are all equally important, the pink ribbon has a special meaning to me, my family and Pink in the City. If I was to pick a few words to describe it....it would be strength, hope, gratitude, perseverance, inspiration and passion.
When I look at that ribbon, it reminds me that an idea can change someone's life, it can change many lives, it changed ours'
It reminds me the impact that volunteers can make,
It reminds me the importance of volunteers to build stronger communities,
It reminds me there are individuals dedicating their time to improve the community they serve,
It reminds me that passion is sometimes all you need,
It reminds me that our actions encourage others,
It reminds me of the countless survivors and their courageous stories of survival
It also reminds me of those that have lost the battle,
It reminds me of all the caregivers and children who have cancer or have a family member who has cancer
how they inspire others, their passion in reaching out, helping others and the countless hours they give a helping hand.
This ribbon highlights all the generous contributions you make to improve someone's life, inspire others and raise awareness. Most importantly - highlights your support to all women who are struggling with breast cancer.
And honors all those who fought bravely against the disease. They are the ones that genuinely appreciate your leadership and the positive difference you have made for them.
When you see this ribbon, ask yourself what are you doing for your community, your school or organization ?
What great idea do you have that can make a difference for others to help meet the goal for the year ?
Think about how you can give a helping hand.....and improve the community you serve.
I am extremely proud of Pink in the City and this special ribbon. A proud moment to remind us all that with the help of supporters, sponsors and volunteers, we bring great awareness on how important it is to take on an active role in social responsibility.
Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. When you see this ribbon, let it be a reminder that when breast cancer is detected and treated early, women can survive.
Get involved and encourage others to spread the word.
A proud moment for us when we officially unveiled our Pink in the City ribbon on the Cedars breast clinic Donor board of the MUHC at the RVH. A proud moment for all of us indeed. Thank You Dr. Meterissian.
I remember I asked the question when I first visited the clinic - how do you get the big pink ribbon on the donor board ? Anyone that raises and donates over 50,000$ gets the bigger ribbon.
We were determined to make that happen and we raised 60,000$ in 2014. Pink in the City made it happen. No greater feeling than that. So much to be proud of.
As I look back over the past 9 years since, I am amazed and humbled by our accomplishments. What began as a simple request from 11yr old Lawrence has evolved into a large Pink in the City network, with people who care enough about working together to make a dream a reality. We have gone from raising 2,000 in 2006 to a target of 125,000$ in 2015. We still have so much to do, but we are not alone, and thanks to our families, friends, supporters, sponsors, corporate partners and volunteers - we are encouraged to continue and spread awareness, hope and inspiration. Through our Model the Way scholarships, we encourage community responsibility to advance the well being of others and take an active part to foster volunteerism.
Pink in the City is a diverse and powerful team with all backgrounds where we can exchange ideas, educate, network and empower others to make a difference. Our fundraising initiatives throughout the year is an opportunity to bring us together to celebrate and be thankful of what has been accomplished and how we continue to make a difference a difference every single day. Don't ever lose sight of that thought and how important you are in someone else's life, no matter what age..... at the end of the day, no matter how tired you are, never give up.....
So the next time you see a ribbon.....you have lots to think about ! what does it remind you of ?
How will you represent this ribbon ?
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What does it remind you of ? |
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special.... |
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proud moment for all of us |
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our amazing Pink in the City team.....(some members missing) Thank You Thank You Thank You |
love these boys.... |
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we got our big Pink ribbon ! |
Official ! Pink in the City ribbon on the Donor board of the Cedars breast clinic MUHC at the RVH |
Sunday, 25 January 2015
Meet aspiring pastry Chef Lawrence !
Lawrence always wanted to be a pastry chef....although he probably did not know that at first.....what he did know is that he loved to make deserts. His love for baking started out as a hobby....from as early as 4 or 5 Lawrence was cooking along my side, experimenting with food,wanting to try new recipes and quickly developing his passion for creative cooking. Looking back, so important as a parent to let them explore their skills and what they like to do.....cooking in the kitchen became fun and a regular activity. He was very artistic. Our tv was always on the cooking channel, and must have watched every cake boss episode. I was starting to learn a thing or 2 about baking, decorating and fondant. He would try all sorts of recipes and get ideas and inspiration from the different cake artists. I would say that when Lawrence was 10 or so....i really started to notice, that he had a real talent....more so than just an interest in the kitchen. I knew that Lawrence would benefit from some type of courses and I started to look around for local baking classes - it was difficult to find classes that would taylor to someone as young as lawrence who was more advanced in baking than most kids his age. I finally found a local cake decorator "La Gaterie" specializing in wedding and specialty cakes that was willing to take on Lawrence in her classes......ofcourse, this was not a class for young kids...so had to make sure that Lawrence was okay with taking a class with adults. Was quite funny at the time of his first class, the other participants in the class thought it was a joke that someone as young was in there with them. They quickly learned that Lawrence was not your ordinary 13yr old and that he really had a passion for cake decorating ! These few classes really intrigued his interest and started to bake even more often. He was baking for all of our family events. He was regularly in my kitchen making cookies, and as he was getting older, he was making deserts I never tried myself. It was really incredible to see a little chef in the making. We did not have anyone in the family that was really good at baking.....I loved to cook, made all of my traditional greek cookies and deserts, that was the extent of my baking skills.
What Lawrence loves most as an aspiring pastry chef is that he can be creative, come up with his own interesting themes and textures, cake styles and recipes. For him, not only is it fun, but rewarding....when you love to do what you do....it is a form of art and expression !
Slowly Lawrence started to make more theme cakes and any type of cakes he was being asked to make. Lawrence has quite an imagination of his own and can create a masterpiece within hours. A pastry artist in the making. Every desert he makes, has it's own style, from classic to contemporary , modern and trendy, different flavors, variety of textures - just love to see what his next inspiration will be. As a proud mom, I always made sure I captured every single one. I guess my love for photography gave me an even greater opportunity to experiment on taking photos of his cakes....loved the detail so much so...that I probably have hundreds of photos....different angles of all his work !
I still remember the first time he made me a cake for mothers day, or the first Vourtzoumis cake, or my 50th cake, not to mention all of the other special cakes he made for us. Every time, I was just amazed. The latest one was for our christmas brunch - everyone was asked to make something personal, with pictures and something that would be meaningful....Lawrence made a film cake with pictures of our family life over the years.....it was truly remarkable.
Each of his cakes are remarkable.....and special.
His designs can be simple to extravagant.....there is no limit ! He already has plans and dreams to open up his own pastry shop.....then again....I am not surprised.
How many young bakers can make the most elaborate of wedding cakes - 5 tiers, different flavors, fondant in all textures and detail to dazzle ??? I only know of one.....and that is my youngest of my boys, working out of our family kitchen ! You would have never thought when he was on the ice, in his goalie equipment playing hockey that he also had another talent !
Years ago.......on plane rides....lawrence and I would often spend lots of time talking about how he can put his talent to use.....now he is actually putting his talent to use and loving every minute.
When lawrence first discovered fondant...he was determined to get it perfect......as a self taught young baker.....he would youtube how to cover a cake in fondant and watched many cake boss episodes. It was just interesting to see that once you put your mind to something, you can do anything - his artistic side came through, he enjoyed making desserts and specialty cakes, it was really inspirational, that someone so young can do this. His cakes looked and tasted fantastic ! He was quickly perfecting his techniques with every cake.
When his older brother got married in 2013 - Lawrence was making the wedding cake ! How often does that happen - your younger brother, 18yr old making your cake - I was nervous, can't blame me, but I was so proud, we all were !
Both wedding cakes were absolutely stunning....one for the Pentiction wedding in BC and one for the Montreal reception. They were both just beautiful.....and what was more beautiful is that they were made with love and affection !
No one could believe that it was the grooms baby brother that made the cakes ! Since then, Lawrence has made many more beautiful wedding cakes and different specialty cakes, cupcakes and cookies !
His passion comes right through and level of detail makes every cake a masterpiece.
Although he has never entered a pastry award competition, I could easily see this coming soon for Lawrence ! He has an artistic presentation side to him.....and really incorporates what the client wants with each cake.
When Lawrence is given carte blanche to create, I am always excited to see the finished masterpiece !
Success begins when you believe in yourself ! So very proud of you Lawrence !!! You are an inspiration in many ways to all of us....and have taught us all a thing or two !
I am your biggest fan and will always be ! We are all so very proud of you.
*Follow lawrence and his cake creations in instagram @lvcakes or on his
facebook page Lawrence Vourtzoumis Cakes
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Montreal - Phil and Evie's wedding reception |
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Penticton BC - Phil and Evie's wedding day ! |
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1st Vourtzoumis cake ! |
Lawrence on ice ! |
5yrs old lawrence making christmas cookies ! |
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Christmas brunch 2014 - Film cake ! |
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my 50th ! |
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