Nuance Marketing Goes to Toronto to Support the Rally for Kids With Cancer

Toronto was the most recent destination for my agency, Nuance Marketing's support of our client AutomotiveStreetStyle.com and their owner, former Toronto Raptor Jerome "Junkyard Dog" Williams. It was my first time in Toronto and I was overwhelmed by the kindness and friendly nature that pervaded with the residents of this fly international city.

Johnnie & Jerome "JYD" Williams in Toronto

AutomotiveStreetStyle.com was supporting Solutions With Impact, a cause based marketing company that was throwing their inaugural Rally for Kids With Cancer Scavenger Cup. It was a huge success and raised over $1 million. All proceeds went to the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto.

Fundraising drivers led a racing team to gather donations prior to the event draft. Drivers also brought the use of their luxury and exotic vehicle to participate. Some of the most exclusive vehicles in the world were exhibited.

Lambo in front of Cosmopolitan Hotel

Ferrari Enzo

Drivers partnered with celebrity navigators in their luxury vehicles to race through Toronto to complete challenges in a scavenger hunt format.

Goldie Hawn and Edward Cates

Ving Rhames and Edward Cates

The largest fundraiser received first draft at the kick off "Draft Party" held at Toronto's ultra chic Muzik. The AutomotiveStreetStyle.com trailer was a part of the red carpet activities. Ving Rhames went in the first round to a team that raised over $250,000. Jerome "JYD" Williams was also recruited in the first round as a celebrity navigator riding in a Audi R8.

AutomotiveStreetStyle.com Trailer at Muzik

Race day was kicked off with a brunch at the swank Harbor 60 Steakhouse. The AutomotiveStreetStyle.com Trailer was the centerpiece of the action hosting the Team Serengeti as they distributed swag shades to participants.

Serengeti Sunglasses hands out swag at Harbor 60.

Mid-day we moved the AutomotiveStreetStyle.com trailer to the Hershey Center where Lexus was conducting an obstacle course for the Scavenger cup participants.

Shelby Cobra

Celebs: Goldie Hawn, Alfonso Ribeiro, Kevin Sorbo, Kristy Morgan, Damon Allen

Following the day's activities, the weekend was concluded with a first class gala at the home of Williams Telecommunications magnate Jim Williams. Jim participated as a fundraising driver and his entire family extended enormous hospitality to the crowd of over 500 people. Canadian Idol host Ben Mulroney served as MC and R&B artist Jully Black and band performed and commanded the room.

Closing Gala where Jully Black Performed

Overall, I walked away from Toronto feeling like I visited a country that has gotten race relations and diversity right. I've heard Toronto characterized as a "clean New York" but that fails to recognize what is special about this great city. There is a metropolitan and distinctly urban feel to the city and a sense of European style and fashion. Also there was an effortless blending of global cultures.

Repeatedly I heard from the proud residents that "Toronto is the most international city in the world." While I don't know if that is exact. I'll say that it is indeed a splendid city that I hold in high regard and look forward to returning.

Edward Cates, Alfonso Ribeiro and Jerome "JYD" Williams