NEWS RELEASE - Toronto’s Most Inclusive Party Returns: Community Rocks – Secret Garden Edition Set to Bloom on November 22 | Community Living TorontoCommunity Living Toronto

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Toronto’s Most Inclusive Party Returns: CommunityRocks – Secret Garden Edition Set to Bloom on November 22

TORONTO, ON – November 20, 2025– The countdown is on! Community Living Toronto is thrilled to announce the return of its signature fundraising event, Community Rocks: Secret Garden, happening Saturday, November 22, 2025 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. This year’s theme invites guests to step into a whimsical world of florals, music, and magic all in support of people with intellectual disabilities.

In a powerful show of collaboration, Community Living Toronto is partnering with LIGHTS, a program that helps people with intellectual disabilities live more independently to amplify fundraising efforts and drive lasting impact. Together, we are building a future where everyone can thrive.

With over 1,500 guests expected, this high-energy celebration will be hosted by the fabulous Fay & Fluffy, feature live performances by Dwayne Gretzky, a cocktail reception, gourmet food stations, a dance party, with DJs Raptor Marc and DJ Lynz spinning late into the night, and more!

“Community Rocks is more than a party it’s an evening of inspiration,” says Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto.

“Events like this remind us of what community is all about: showing up and standing proudly together. It’s a celebration of resilience, a call to action, and a powerful demonstration of how we can build a city where everyone belongs and where everyone is valued.”

All proceeds from the event will support Community Living Toronto’s programs and services that promote independence, meaningful employment, and strong social connections for over 4,000 people with intellectual disabilities across the GTA.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. | Live concert at 8:00 p.m.

Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 190 Princes Blvd., Exhibition Place, Toronto

Dress Code: Secret Garden Chic, think florals, pastels, and whimsical flair! But most importantly, come as you are. Whether you are dressing up or keeping it casual, everyone belongs in the garden.

Media Highlights:

Interviews with Community Living Toronto leadership and event hosts

Human interest stories from people supported by Community Living Toronto.

Photo and video opportunities throughout the evening

Tickets and Info: www.communityrocks.ca

Socials:

Facebook: @CLToronto @CommunityRocks.ca @LightsToronto1

Instagram: @CLToronto @CommunityRocks.ca @LightsToronto

LinkedIn: Community Living Toronto

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About Community Living Toronto:
Community Living Toronto has been a source of support for people with an intellectual disability and their families since 1948.
We offer a wide range of services including respite, person-directed planning, employment supports, supported living, and community-based activities to over 4,000 people and their families across the city of Toronto.
The community living movement began with families who wanted their children to live in the community, rather than in institutions.
Today, Community Living Toronto continues to advocate for full inclusion and belonging by providing opportunities for people with an intellectual disability to live the life they choose.

About LIGHTS:

LIGHTS brings together people with an intellectual disability, their families, private donors, the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, and Community Living Toronto in a partnership that facilitates the establishment of permanent and sustainable housing solutions for people with intellectual disabilities and provides interim funding to overcome financial obstacles in the establishment of a place to call home.
The vision of LIGHTS is that all people with an intellectual disability in Toronto will have access to long-term housing appropriate to their needs, thus attaining greater inclusion in their community, independence, and security.
This year, LIGHTS has partnered with CLTO to help meet an ambitious fundraising goal of $1,000,000. With your support, funds raised for Community Rocks through LIGHTS will be redirected back to LIGHTS – to help more people with intellectual disabilities fulfil their goals to live independently in their community.
Visit LIGHTS.to for more info

MEDIA CONTACTS

Karla Dendrinos

Media and Communications Specialist

media@cltoronto.ca karla.dendrinos@cltoronto.ca

EVENT CONTACTS:

Angela Bradley

abradley@cltoronto.ca

Sponsorship and Fundraising:

Sylvie Labrosse, CFRE

Manager, Fundraising

sylvie.labrosse@cltoronto.ca

647.588.9465