Reflecting on our recent Annual General Meeting held on February 10, 2025, I am filled with pride by the collective efforts that have driven our achievements this past year. Our successes are a testament to the dedication of many.
I extend heartfelt thanks to the volunteers on the Emery Village Board of Management for their unwavering support. Our gratitude also goes to our business members, volunteers, and the community partners who have collaborated with us on various events and projects. As an agency of the City of Toronto, we remain committed to accountability. Our financial statements undergo independent audits and reviews by the City Auditor, ensuring transparency in all our endeavours.
Community engagement has been the cornerstone of our success and will continue to guide our path forward. This year, we aim to replicate the growing popularity of our events, which previously set attendance records.
Our Annual Holiday Food and Toy Drive concluded with remarkable contributions from staff and officer volunteers at 31 Division, resulting in record donations from our members and the community. The collected toys were delivered to 31 Division, where officers, including senior personnel, ensured they reached children in need within our area.
In the days that followed, a dedicated team from Mosaic Transit Group assisted in delivering a substantial amount of boxed food to the Weston Area Food Bank for holiday distribution. Amid economic challenges, the Food Bank expressed deep gratitude, noting a rising number of families and individuals—many experiencing homelessness—relying on their services.
We continued our traditions by hosting the annual Remembrance Day at Joseph Bannon Park and our award-winning Movie-in-the-Park summer event, which brought together hundreds of children and their families.
As we anticipate the completion of the Finch West LRT project and the installation of BIA furnishings such as pedestrian lights, benches, planters, and gateway signs, we are launching several streetscaping projects throughout the BIA. Our focus remains on maintaining street furniture, addressing challenges managed by our security services, and tackling additional issues inherent to one of Canada’s largest Business Improvement Areas.
In the coming months, we will announce exciting new plans and projects aimed at beautifying and enhancing the safety of our public spaces and commercial areas.
Looking ahead to June, we invite you to anticipate Emery’s annual planting season. Our contractors will be out filling the many gardens, planters, and hanging baskets throughout the BIA, bringing vibrant life to our community.
Lastly, as we approach March 8th, International Women’s Day, we reflect on the social, cultural, political, and economic advancements achieved by women over the years. It is also a moment to recognize the work that remains. Our children deserve no less.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community.
Warm regards,
Sandra Farina
Executive Director