Community Living Toronto’s signature celebration, Community Rocks: Secret Garden, transformed the Queen Elizabeth Theatre into a blooming dreamscape on Saturday, November 22, 2025. Guests were whisked into a fantastical world of florals, music, and magic — all to champion people with intellectual disabilities. By the end of the night, the event had blossomed into nearly one million dollars raised for an extraordinary cause.
This year brought an inspiring collaboration between Community Living Toronto and LIGHTS, an innovative program that empowers people with intellectual disabilities to live more independently. Together, they amplified fundraising efforts and community impact — a meaningful stride toward a future where everyone can flourish.
Over 1,500 guests filled the venue for this high-energy soirée, enjoying the dazzling Fay & Fluffy, show-stopping live performances by Dwayne Gretzky, and a curated culinary experience featuring gourmet food stations and a lively cocktail reception. The dance floor stayed glowing well into the night with DJs Raptor Marc and DJ Lynz delivering unforgettable sets. Dwayne Gretzky kept the theatre buzzing as crowds danced from start to finish.
“Community Rocks is more than a party — it’s an evening of inspiration,” shares Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto. “Events like this remind us what community truly means: showing up, standing tall together, and celebrating belonging. It’s a moment of resilience, a call to action, and a powerful reflection of the inclusive city we’re building — one where everyone is valued.”
All proceeds directly support Community Living Toronto’s wide range of programs that foster independence, meaningful employment, and strong social connection for more than 4,000 people with intellectual disabilities across the GTA.
Secret Garden Chic: A Night of Whimsical Style
The dress code encouraged guests to lean into the magic: think lush florals, dreamy pastels, and enchanting, garden-inspired flair. Attendees embraced the theme with creativity, colour, and charm — truly bringing the Secret Garden to life.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned and stay social with Community Rocks and its partners:
- Websites: communityrocks.ca • cltoronto.ca • lights.to
- Facebook: @CLToronto, @CommunityRocks.ca, @LightsToronto1
- Instagram: @CLToronto, @CommunityRocks.ca, @LightsToronto
- LinkedIn: Community Living Toronto
About Community Living Toronto
Since 1948, Community Living Toronto has supported people with intellectual disabilities and their families through comprehensive services including respite, person-directed planning, employment supports, supported living, and community-based programs. Rooted in a movement begun by families advocating for inclusion beyond institutions, the organization continues to champion belonging, independence, and choice for over 4,000 individuals across Toronto.
About LIGHTS
LIGHTS unites families, donors, government partners, and Community Living Toronto to create long-term, sustainable housing solutions for people with intellectual disabilities. By offering interim funding and guidance, LIGHTS helps individuals secure homes that foster independence, security, and community connection.
This year, LIGHTS proudly partnered with Community Living Toronto to pursue an ambitious $1,000,000 fundraising goal. Funds raised for Community Rocks through LIGHTS will be redirected back into LIGHTS to help even more people take meaningful steps toward independent living.
Learn more at LIGHTS.to.
SEO Keywords: Community Rocks 2025, Community Living Toronto, Toronto events, Secret Garden event Toronto, LIGHTS Toronto, Intellectual disability support Toronto, Toronto fundraising gala, Inclusive community events Toronto, Supported living programs Toronto, Disability inclusion initiatives GTA, Independent living for people with intellectual disabilities, Community Living Toronto fundraising, Dwayne Gretzky live Toronto 2025
Social Posts Hashtags: #CommunityRocks #CommunityRocks2025 #TorontoEvent #TorontoCharity #DisabilityInclusion #IntellectualDisabilities #Respite #PersonDirectedPlanning #EmploymentSupports #SupportedLiving #LIGHTS #CLToronto #SecretGardenChic
© 2025 TorontoArtsandEvents. Article AI Assisted. All Rights Reserved. Editors, please contact us for usage permissions.
