Several hundred people came out to the Shenkman Arts Centre on May 9 to celebrate mothers, the community and beautiful music performed by a group of gifted young singers at the Glow of Love Mother’s Day concert in support of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.
The event was organized by the Labelle family, most notably Julianna Labelle, who is just 10 years old.
When Julianna, who is a gifted singer and has performed for years around Orléans and Ottawa, wanted to organize a fundraising event for the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, a concert seemed the most obvious choice. So the family booked the Shenkman Arts Centre and Julianna invited seven of her friends to perform with her.
The result was a magical evening that actually began earlier that day with a vendors’ market in the Shenkman Arts Centre foyer where people could purchase items made by local suppliers and have their picture taken with the CHEO Bear.
Each singer performed on stage in the middle of over 1,000 candles formed into a large heart. Every performance reminded the audience why the event meant so much in “bringing families, community, and love together under one glow”.
The most popular attraction of the event, besides the concert itself, was “The Wall of Love” photo booth, where people could write messages, share memories, post photos or take pictures of themselves in front of a large heart.
Besides Julianna, the other performers included Romy Mounzer, Liana Molinaro, Jhune Ernesto, Sharlee, Chelsea Palmer, Stefan Keyes and Caroline Coderre all performing with the theme of “Making memories. Spreading love. Supporting CHEO” through the power of live music.
Other than ticket sales, the event also benefited from the support of sponsors like the Donnelly Automotive Group, McDonalds Orléans, and TFI Food Equipment Solutions as well as dozens of other companies and businesses which provided items for a giant gift basket.
By the time all of the proceeds have been counted the event will have raised over $1,500 for CHEO.
Glow of Love will be back next year even better so make sure to follow them on Facebook (A Glow of Love) and get your tickets early.
ORLÉANS FARMERS’ MARKET from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Orléans Town Centre Plaza, 290 Centrum Blvd. Browse 130+ local vendors, grab a bite, and discover amazing handmade and local finds. Plenty of parking available.
CUMBERLAND FARMERS’ MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with a variety of local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds! FREE ADMISSION
MILLENNIUM PARK BBQ hosted by Orléans South-Navan councillor Catherine Kitts and Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe from 1-3 p.m. with live music and entertainment by children’s performers Monkey Rock Music, a free BBQ, and tons of family fun.
