470 guests. 46 tables. $1.4 million raised. With numbers like these, it’s safe to say that the 27th annual Butterfly Ball — a critical fundraiser for the Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre — was a smashing success.
A speedy blue McLaren welcomed guests as they arrived to the glittering Royal Ontario Museum. Impressive floral arrangements bloomed inside, lit by flickering candles. Invitees enjoyed their choice of thoughtfully-named cocktails (“The Fiery Flutter” and “The Dirty Monarch” among them) before taking their seats at a cluster of charming red tables with sparkling gold settings for the evening meal.
Just in front of an enchanting purple curtain, presenters announced two awards — the Builder Award and the Jonathan & Georgia Aune Award — which were given to Paul Godfrey and Claire MacNamara, respectively.
Shortly after came the live auction, which constitutes a “meaningful part” of Boost CYAC’s fundraising efforts, per President and CEO Kayla Yama. Generous gifts came from contributors like gifts Cabot, Exclusive Resorts, Air Canada, and Oliver & Bonacini.
If there had been a competition for the most stylish guest, it would have been a stiff one. Flipping through photos from Max Mara’s step and repeat, you’ll see plenty of dazzling gowns and dashing bowties. Guests also posed for custom fashion sketches from the event, drawn on Butterfly Ball letterhead.
After dinner, live string music decorated the dance floor, complemented by a decadent display of desserts. For this year’s Draw Prize, Royal De Versailles donated two captivating jewellery pieces; in a true measure of luck, guests purchased keys and tried to open a jewellery box, with the winning set of keys ‘unlocking’ the clear case.
RIGHT: KAYLA YAMA, BRETT LINDROS, MYRON DEMKIW, LINDSAY JOLIE.
PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTAL.
By the time the lights dimmed, the 27th annual Butterfly Ball had raised a staggering $1.4 million in support of the community-based organization. Contributions from the evening will assist Boost CYAC in providing critical programs including advocacy support, trauma therapy and court support to children and families impacted by abuse and violence.. With 470 guests dining at 46 tables, Boost CYAC calls the 2026 Butterfly Ball its biggest gala yet — and, thanks to their generous donations, the organization will continue to increase capacity to help kids and teens who have experienced abuse.
To learn more about Boost CYAC, including its programs and services, visit www.boostforkids.org.
