The remarkable SDC 2024 CURV ‘Once Upon a Shine Gala,’ presented by Beeta Education, was held at the prestigious Vancouver Convention Centre to a sold-out house. The event was MC’ed by Fred Lee and Coco Yi and was graced by the presence of community leaders, philanthropists, and other prominent individuals who contributed generously to this success, offering their support as a beacon of hope for children with special needs.
Through ticket sales, silent auction, raffle tickets (through the magnificent efforts of with gala co-chair Jacky Chan and SDC Executive Director David Chen), and donations, the gala raised a staggering $549,000, proving to be yet another milestone in showcasing the strength of the community’s commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children with special needs.
“The SDC Foundation has instilled within me a great sense of duty towards those whose voices often go unheard, and I am always committed to making a positive change in our world. Through BakerWest Real Estate and now the Ovis Group, I will continue to champion support for children with disabilities,” shared Jacky Chan, co-founder and CEO of BakerWest Real Estate, speaking about his commitment to the cause.
The gala, produced by Liting Chan (Paradise Events) was a celebration of the incredible performances of the children, who put on a magnificent show of dedication, passion for life, and love. Every dance move and melody deeply touched the audience’s hearts, leaving an unforgettable impression.
Additionally, a special on-stage interview during the dinner left a lasting impact. Anto, a parent of one of SDC’s participants, shared a heartwarming story about how his daughter learned to make friends uniquely through SDC’s programs. Through the nurturing environment provided by SDC, she gained confidence and social skills, making friends in her own way. This heartwarming story highlighted the profound personal development experienced by children involved in SDC’s programs, sending a powerful message of love, hope, and growth to all present.
SDC fundraised to support children with special needs to expand its programs and impact further. With this funding, SDC can assist more children and families, extending its courses and impact. Through these programs, children can gain confidence and feel loved through learning and interaction.
SDC Founder David Wang, Co-Chairs Jacky Chan, Audrey Dong, and Judith Buist, the organizing team and everyone involved, from SDC to the hardworking volunteers, would like to sincerely thank every sponsor, family member, and supporter for their generous support. Their collective efforts and support made this year’s gala a memorable success. Each contribution affirms SDC’s philosophy and strengthens its mission: to empower youth to empower children with special needs.
On this special evening, the SDC celebrated not just the success of an event but the unity and realization of a community’s dreams. The gala dinner created beautiful memories of warmth, love, and hope, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all those who attended.
Who is the SDC?
Social Diversity for Children Foundation (SDC) is a Canadian registered charity that empowers youth to empower children with disabilities. SDC amplifies the voices of passionate young leaders who believe in equal opportunity, regardless of ability. By partnering with incredible companies like Telus, Holborn, Gentai Financial Group, and Pacific Evergreen Realty Ltd, SDC is able to care for and support each other and a team that operates through compassion. Together, they work to piece together a puzzle that includes children of all abilities, ultimately creating the loving community that parents have always dreamed of.
SDC takes action to provide a safe, home-like environment for children of all abilities to showcase their unique talents. Their various initiatives provide means to work towards a dream—one in which empowerment, acceptance, and hope are instilled in everyone.
Learn more about the SDC Foundation and how you and your organization can get involved! It is never too late to create lasting memories through positive actions.
Photography for the evening by Kiwi Productions, David Wang, and Palette Creative.
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Marketing & Communications Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine, and digital women's lifestyle magazine EcoLuxLifestyle.co. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Post-pandemic, she has worked with many small to mid-sized plant-based/vegan brands to build their digital foundations and strategize content creation and business development. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at helen@ecoluxluv.com.
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