When you see the engraved plaques and Aldo Cundari’s stunning sculpture, Hope, recently unveiled at the Columbus Centre, you know it’s more than art—it’s the story of resilience, dreams, and the Italian community’s journey to Canada.

The centerpiece sculpture depicts a 1950s immigrant family brimming with excitement for their new life in Canada. Unlike traditional depictions of fear and despair, Hope depicts the courage and optimism that define the Italian Canadian immigrant experience.

Aldo Cundari is not only our CEO and renowned marketing executive, but also Villa Charities Foundation board director who returned to his first love—sculpting—to create this inspiring work. “The installation and statue explore the struggles and successes of the Italian Canadian immigrant story,” he shared at the unveiling.

This landmark also includes an installation designed by Brown + Storey Architects, which features personalized plaques engraved with names and immigration years, giving families a chance to honour their loved ones while supporting Villa Charities’ programs in senior care, youth services, and cultural education. The tribute’s digital platform invites families to share their stories and photos, enriching the collective memory of this vibrant community.

With Aldo Cundari’s artistic vision and the community’s shared stories, Villa Charities continues to inspire pride and connection, ensuring the legacy of Italian Canadian immigrants is celebrated for generations to come.  

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