Mantella Corporation Helps Launch First Canadian Fundraiser in Support of Doctors Without Borders

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 11, 2014) - The Downtown Porsche dealership was alive with champagne, celebrations and generosity as more than 250 of Toronto's VIPs gathered for the inaugural Amore Without Borders soiree on May 14. With Mantella Corporation as one of its lead sponsors, this fundraising initiative is the first in Canada dedicated to supporting Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), the international humanitarian organization that has provided medical aid to people affected by poverty, violence and disasters since 1971.

"Doctors Without Borders has operated in Canada since 1989, so launching a fundraiser dedicated to this cause has been long overdue," says Robert Mantella, president and CEO of Mantella Corporation, a family-owned real estate developer of more than 65 years. "Our company has always been dedicated to the community, both at home and abroad, and it's organizations such as this that we feel deserve all the support we can give. We're honoured to lend our name to this great event."

Amore Without Borders is the brainchild of Sylvia Mantella, director of brand development of Mantella Corporation, and Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, co-founder of Dolce Media Group. After learning of the thousands of MSF workers who volunteer their time and put their own comfort and safety at risk for others in need, the pair was inspired to act. For two years they worked diligently to get the event off the ground and couldn't be more pleased with how the public responded.

"It was amazing to see so many generous people come together in the way they have," says Sylvia, chair of Amore Without Borders 2014. "MSF's workers are there on the ground, making a real difference for those who don't have the medical luxuries we're so fortunate to have at our fingertips. We couldn't think of a better group to support."

Caspar Haydar Designs added to the magic of the evening, transforming the Downtown Porsche dealership into a breathtaking, love-inspired space. Guest donned their best red attire in support of the amore theme, enjoyed the moving live entertainment, which included a performance by Canadian-Romanian singer Carmen Corcoz, and savoured the delectable hors d'oeuvres that were crafted by celebrity chef David Rocco and Pusateri's Fine Foods corporate chef Tony Cammalleri. The night was emceed by Anne Mroczkowski, former award-winning anchor of Citytv and Global TV, and Mike Chalut, host of 103.9 PROUD FM.

Ten beautiful, one-of-a-kind vintage medical totes by Amore Bags were sold through silent auction, but it was the live auction that was the centrepiece of the night. A luxurious trip to New York or Miami via private jet donated by the Rosen Family was first on the docket, followed by a spectacular 1.21-carat yellow diamond courtesy of Guildhall Diamonds Inc., and finally a stunning custom "Amore" Porsche Carrera 911 S donated by Downtown Porsche.

When the night finally wound down, nearly $300,000 was raised, well surpassing the original goal of a quarter of a million dollars. "We couldn't be happier with how this event turned out," says Robert. "It's been a tremendous success and it's something we look forward to supporting for years to come."

About Mantella Corporation

For nearly 70 years, Mantella Corporation has stood as one of the most highly respected real estate developers in Canada. Founded by Anthony Mantella in 1946, Mantella Corporation's expertise ranges from industrial warehouses to luxury condominiums, retail plazas to custom homes. Currently under the guidance of Robert Mantella, Anthony's grandson, this family-operated enterprise expanded its breadth in 2008 to launch Mantella Venture Partners, a $20-million early stage start-up fund that invests in innovative software businesses. Mantella Corporation is also highly committed to community involvement, supporting numerous national and international charities, including ONEXONE, Ronald McDonald House Toronto and Amore Without Borders.

For more on Mantella Corporation's philanthropic work, visit www.mantella.ca.