Molinaro Group has been an integral part of defining Burlington’s downtown and waterfront for over 20 years. Their buildings are well known, from their first project at Spencer’s Landing to their most recent project now under construction, Paradigm Grand. Each development is unique in design, ideally located, and offers premium amenities that make them eminently desirable places to live.
In many quarters, the vision the Molinaro Group has shown about Burlington’s potential is an essential factor that helped the city to flourish and win so many accolades. Once such accolade came a recently when Burlington was ranked the fifth most livable city in Canada out of 100 cities ranked by the Globe and Mail. The small town atmosphere and beckoning waterfront access, all within an easy commute of Toronto via the adjacent GO station, are among the reasons the Molinaro Group been so committed to Burlington for decades.
But Molinaro Group is about more than their buildings. They have long been dedicated to making Burlington a better place to live, contributing their time and resources to charitable endeavours and projects that enrich residents’ lives. And 2023 was no exception.
“Being based here in Burlington for over 20 years, we support the community. It’s a commitment my father instilled in us.,” said Vince Molinaro, President, Molinaro Group, referring to his late father Domenic. “It’s a great feeling to help the city and the people who live here.”
Here’s just a sampling of the Group’s efforts this year:
Annual Festival of Trees
Molinaro Group is one of the sponsors for the seventh Annual Festival of Trees, which runs from November 22 to December 17 at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC). The annual festival is highlighted by the Santa Claus Parade, which took place on Sunday, December 3. Attendees of the annual parade were invited to donate non-perishable food items to the Burlington Food Bank. Molinaro Group also contributed to the annual fundraising auction, where people can bid on the beautifully lit Christmas trees decorating the BPAC lobby. Proceeds from the auction will go toward the centre’s outreach programs and activities.
Urban Farm
Molinaro Group wrapped up its third year of supporting the Urban Farm in Burlington. The community farm (led by Adria Cehovin and the team at Bunchberry Connections) grows fresh vegetables and herbs, which are donated to the Burlington Food Bank for use by local families. The Urban Farm had a fantastic year, growing over 2,500 pounds of fresh produce, including squash, pumpkins, tomatoes, hot peppers, and more. It’s a truly farm-to-table endeavour, as people have access to fresh produce almost immediately after it is harvested.
The Urban Farm’s record harvest this year was in great part due to the volunteers’ hard work and generous donations from Molinaro Group and many other supporters. They’re also looking for volunteers and sponsors for 2024 to help maintain and support the farm’s efforts to continue operations and provide more fresh produce for the people of Burlington. The Molinaro Group will continue supporting the Urban Farm, and invites others to join the effort to ensure its ongoing success.
HorsePower 4 Hospital
Molinaro Group has been a long-time supporter of Joseph Brant Hospital and their fundraising activities. On September 23, Molinaro Group partnered with Angelo Paletta and TNG Exotics & Limited Editions to present HorsePower 4 Hospital, an exclusive, one-of-a-kind car show that featured over 50 exotic and limited-edition vehicles. This free, family-friendly event raised more than $200,000 to support the hospital’s initiatives, including the redevelopment of the maternity ward’s labour and delivery unit.
Carpenter Hospice Gala
In February 2023, the Carpenter Hospice Gala returned to the Burlington Convention Centre following a three-year hiatus. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the gala featured entertainment from a live steel band. Attendees were able to donate to the hospice through bids at the silent and live auctions, which featured many amazing prizes. Vince and Tina Molinaro attended the event, including participating in the live auction, and made a donation on behalf of Molinaro Group. The gala raised more than $160,000 for the Carpenter Hospice, which provides residential-based care to people entering the final stage of life. It also offers community-based programs to help people dealing with grief or a life-limiting illness. Carpenter Hospice has been in operation in Burlington since 2002, thanks to donations from many generous benefactors.