Mayor's Message

Dear Friends, 

25 years ago, Pickering became the first official Canadian city of the new millennium. Evolving from its long history as an important Canadian township, our city became a beacon for the future, a forward looking community with eyes on what lay ahead in the 21st century. 

As we celebrate our silver anniversary, and the incredible growth of the last 25 years, I am more confident than ever that our future remains unwaveringly bright. This confidence comes both from a deep love of this community, but more so, a full understanding of our new unique importance to a strong and vibrant Canada. The vibrancy of our city can be witnessed in every corner — from our developers who create the buildings and neighbourhoods of the future, to our companies who create the jobs, products, and services celebrated by all Canadians. In a country as strong and beautiful as Canada, we are so privileged to live in a city made up of the diverse artists, musicians, cultural contributors, business leaders and front-line workers who drive our city forward. 

What always inspires me the most is our citizen’s compassion and humanity, for the many who work to develop our community and never think twice about doing good to help their fellow Canadians. 

I thank all of you who generously supported my previous galas. Together, we’ve raised almost $1,000,000 dollars in the last two years for so many worthy charities. The Pickering Mayor’s Gala is Durham Region’s signature black-tie charity fundraiser, bringing together our community’s leaders and businesses  to raise funds that will support our local hospital, along with the many organizations that are making a difference. 

I am so pleased to announce that this year’s charitable recipients will be Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, Luke’s Place, Autism Home Base, WindReach Farm Foundation, Ajax Pickering Hospital, the Carion Fenn Foundation, and St. Paul’s on the Hill Community Food Bank. The ongoing support of our sponsors and partners has been essential to the success of this annual event, and no doubt to our city itself. Their continued commitment is integral to our growth and  development. Your continued dedication to being part of this event and our broader community, is humbly appreciated. 

We invite and welcome sponsors to come explore Canada’s newly invigorated Northern Spirit. Your generosity and support have made Pickering one of the world’s great communities since the dawn of the new millennium. With intense Canadian pride, and  with our eyes fixed on the future, we look forward to showing you the best of Canada on this very special night.  

Kevin Ashe