Inside SOAR, the Gala Putting a Fresh Spin on Giving

Toronto’s entertainment, music, philanthropy and cultural communities came together at the Shangri-La Hotel Toronto for SOAR, a fundraising gala in support of Post-Court Pathways, a groundbreaking trauma-informed therapy program from Victim Services Toronto that provides specialized mental health support for children and youth after they have testified against their abusers in criminal court. The evening featured a series of immersive experiences, a live performance by singer-songwriter Dylan Sinclair and a high-energy DJ set from Gonnie Garko.

As the first event of its kind, SOAR aims to reimagine the traditional fundraising gala through immersive experiences, live entertainment and community connection. For co-chair Brooke Neal, it’s about bringing a fresh perspective to charitable giving: “SOAR shows that philanthropy can be both meaningful and culturally relevant.”

Since launching in 2025, SOAR has sold out both of its fundraising events and raised nearly $1.2 million for Post-Court Pathways. For a program still in its early stages, the response has been remarkable, bringing much-needed attention to the often-overlooked challenges faced by children and youth after testifying in criminal court. While many assume the healing process begins once a trial ends, Post-Court Pathways recognizes that recovery is only just beginning. Still in its pilot phase, the program is helping close a critical gap in post-testimony care and laying the foundation for long-term support.

This evening demonstrated just how powerful a cultural approach to philanthropy can be. Raising an impressive $670,000, SOAR brought together immersive experiences, live entertainment and a shared commitment to supporting young survivors. “The response to SOAR has exceeded anything we could have ever imagined,” says Alison Albright, founder of Post-Court Pathways and founding co-chair of SOAR. “Every dollar SOAR raises brings us closer to ensuring young victims and survivors receive the care they need.”

Style and substance took centre stage as a fashionably dressed crowd gathered for an evening where philanthropy felt as chic as it was meaningful. Guests explored immersive experiences from Cloud23, Nutbar, Guerlain, Everkind, July Health and Marlow before leaving with coveted luxury gift bags and the chance to win raffle prizes valued at more than $100,000. The guest list was equally impressive, bringing together names like Daniel Caesar, Brooklyn Beckham, Sarah Nurse and Nick Bateman. More than just a gala, SOAR has become a cultural event with growing international reach, proving that modern philanthropy can be as influential as it is inspiring.

Backed by a passionate women-led team and a mission that’s already gaining momentum, SOAR and Post-Court Pathways are proving that the most powerful legacy of the evening won’t be the glamour—it will be the lasting impact on the lives of young survivors.