Variety of Ottawa, in conjunction with the Sens Foundation and the South African High Commission hosted their annual Gala on Friday, April 3, at the Brookstreet Hotel. 

Themed “DRUMS”, guests were treated to an evening of fine dining, wine and entertainment with a South African flare.  With African drums at each dinner place setting, guests were invited to join in the fun led by Drum Café.  World-famous Brian Litvin and his band, Jabulani, took to the main stage to entertain after dinner.  Team 1200 radio personality Stuntman Stu introduced an incredible live auction that boasted a TourCan Vacations trip for 2 to South Africa, complete with safari tour, and a once-in-a-lifetime SeaDream Yacht Club Mediterranean Cruise for two. 

In October 2008 the Sens Foundation announced its second-largest financial commitment in its 10-year history, totaling 1.3 million in support of two Ottawa residential youth treatment centres.  The fundraising campaign, entitled Project s.t.e.p, is our community's response to addressing the need for residential substance abuse treatment, education and prevention for young people between the ages of 13 and 17.

Variety of Ottawa, an organization committed to providing assistance to the children of our community, has made a commitment to raise $300,000 by way of its annual Variety Club Gala, as part of this 1.3 million Sens Foundation campaign.

DRUMS was attended by Ottawa Senators Defenceman Chris Phillips and his wife Erin in their roles as Ambassadors for Change for Project s.t.e.p.  The Phillips are actively working with the hockey club and foundation in support of the many fundraising endeavours in the coming months.

Check out some of the great photos from the event.

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