19th Annual Butterfly Ball(R) 2016 Raises $460,000 for Toronto's Only Child & Youth Advocacy Centre

TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - May 27, 2016) -  Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (Boost CYAC) is thrilled to announce that its major fundraising event of the year -- The Butterfly Ball® -- raised an unprecedented $460,000 to support its critical work. The sold out event hosted 430 guests and took place last night at the Four Seasons Hotel. Entertainment Tonight Canada's Cheryl Hickey hosted the evening.

"I am overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of our community," stated Boost CYAC President & CEO, Karyn Kennedy. "and I have to thank our wonderful Chair, Daniela De Gasperis and her committee who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this remarkable event."

"The Butterfly Ball has been a critical part of Boost CYAC's funding for many years; our sponsors and guests keep stepping up to support us," stated De Gasperis. "Money raised last night will ensure that children and youth who have experienced abuse can get the support they so desperately need."

Fargo star, Bokeem Woodbine was in attendance to support a charity near to his heart. "Boost provides such important services for children and families in Toronto. I'm thrilled to be here to support this great cause," stated Woodbine.

During dinner, the room was filled with the sweet sounds of singers Sean Jones and Ivana Santilli and saxophonist Miles Raine; guests danced the night away with BELLOSOUND. Master auctioneer Brett Sherlock, of Christie's Canada kept things orderly during the enthusiastic bidding in the live auction. Items included a trip to London Fashion Week, and a day-long experience with Toronto's Emergency Task Force. Guests were treated to a $100 gift card from DAVID'S Footwear.

About Boost CYAC
Boost CYAC is a creative community response to child abuse investigations. A partnership among local community and government agencies, it brings together all professionals involved in child abuse cases under one roof, for a coordinated, interdisciplinary response to child abuse victims in Toronto. In addition to housing Toronto's only child & youth advocacy centre, Boost CYAC offers a number of direct services including, primary prevention, public education, trauma assessment and therapy and court preparation for child witnesses. boostforkids.org