Whitby Mayor’s Gala, Golf Tournament Raise Over $240,000 To Support Local Community Organizations

The 2025 Whitby Mayor’s Gala and Mayor and Council Golf Tournament together raised over $240,000 in support of organizations and initiatives that make a difference in the community. The events are the primary fundraisers for the Mayor’s Community Development Fund (MCDF).

The fund awards lead grants up to $25,000 and community grants up to $5,000 to support local groups and initiatives, leveraging partnerships to deliver impact. This year’s grants included:

·       $25,000 to the Lakeridge Health Foundation to  bring a new hospital to Whitby  - improving access to quality healthcare close to home. 

·       $25,000 to the Ontario Shores Foundation for an EEG machine, helping to support Alzheimer’s research;

·       $8,000 to the PARA Marine Search and Rescue for boat repairs required to support their continued operation in Durham;

·       The MCDF, supported by the annual Mayor and Council Golf Classic, also awarded $20,000 to Feed the Need in Durham which they used to expand The Market at Iroquois Park Sports Centre - a first-of-its-kind, market-style food bank that provides fresh, healthy options in a welcoming environment; and,

·       Victim Services Durham Region also received $20,000 to support the development of a new database system that strengthened case tracking and improved support for children, youth, and families.

Together, these investments demonstrate measurable progress toward priorities in Whitby’s Community Strategic Plan through collaboration. By working together, we’re building a stronger, more connected, and sustainable future for everyone.   

“The success of this year’s Mayor and Council Golf Tournament and Mayor’s Gala reflect the remarkable generosity and community spirit that define Whitby. My heartfelt thanks to the organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who made these events possible. I’m very proud that the funds raised will allow the Mayor’s Community Development Fund to continue supporting local organizations and initiatives that strengthen our town and make it a welcoming and inclusive place for all residents.”

        Elizabeth Roy, Mayor, Town of Whitby

Quick Facts

·       To date this year, the MCDF has awarded 42 grants with a combined value of nearly $200,000.

·       Other 2025 MCDF recipients included the Alzheimer’s Society of Durham Region, Ignite Durham Learning Foundation, Girls Inc. of Durham, Royal Canadian Legions, Sunrise Development Support Services, We Grow Food, and WindReach Farm.

·       This marks the third consecutive year the Lakeridge Health Foundation has received a grant towards the construction of a new hospital, bringing the Town’s total support for Lakeridge Health to more than $725,000 since 1996.

·       Strong partnerships help Whitby achieve more — faster. By working with community organizations, businesses, and other levels of government, the Town is leveraging collective expertise and resources to deliver shared results towards the goals of Whitby’s Community Strategic Plan. Learn more: whitby.ca/PlanInAction 

For more information, visit the Community Development Fund page.

For media inquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Erin Mikaluk, Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby
Phone: 289.314.6913; Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca

Office of the Mayor

Jillian Follert, Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor
Phone: 289.387.9101; Email: follertj@whitby.ca