We totally get it if these days, it sometimes feels like there aren’t all that many reasons to smile. There’s a lot to worry about out there — but there’s also plenty to enjoy! If you’re here, we’re guessing one of the things that bring a little joy to your life is watching The Young and the Restless. And on top of that, Kate Linder (Esther) just gave us another reason to smile — or perhaps we should say, 55,000 reasons!
The actress just raised over $55,000 (Yup, you read that number right!) for the non-profit charity, Million Dollar Smile at her most recent star-studded tea in Concord, Ontario on May 31st. Emceed by Candace Daniel, anchor of Global News Morning Toronto, with Christian Jules Le Blanc (Michael), Bryton James (Devon), Sean Dominic (Nate) and Michael Graziadei (Daniel), the charity tea went all out for the volunteer organization that goes out of its way to remind children and families facing life-threatening illnesses and special needs that they are loved and valued.
They build playgrounds for children with special needs and serious illnesses, run an annual Bear Drive (delivering teddy bears, not the grizzly kind, of course), and host a number of community-focused events to create moments of joy, inclusion, and support. And the actors didn’t just sit back and enjoy the charity tea — they pushed up their sleeves and got their hands dirty, too!
Along with emcee Daniel, the Young & Restless gang was joined by Anna Lopes, founder of Million Dollar Smiles and tea attendees even got to hear from one of the families helped by the incredible organization.
Credit: Scott Grondin Photography
“I am so incredibly grateful to my wonderful castmates and our show’s amazingly generous fans for making such a huge difference in the lives of the children and families that are helped and supported by Million Dollar Smiles,” Linder shared. “My longtime co-host, Christian, and Bryton, Sean, Michael and I all volunteered our time, as did everyone who put on this incredible event, and we were so moved by participating in a playground build the day before the event.”
Where else would you find a garden but in the park? Genoa City’s own Chancellor Park, to be exact! Fans were treated to a recreated sign that we’re sure helped get them set the scene for the day!
Credit: Scott Grondin Photography
Keep scrolling down to check out highlights of the big day!
There’s nothing quite like an auction to get your hands on some one-of-a-kind Young & Restless swag. And how could you resist one of Esther’s blouses — especially after both Linder and James showed how versatile it was!
Credit: Scott Grondin Photography (2)
Of course, if you wanted to look as stylish as Michael, there was always the shirt and tie worn by Le Blanc’s character to bid on. And James and Graziadei put a little extra spin on the signed Young & Restless script with a live reading — to great affect, we’re sure!
Credit: Scott Grondin Photography (2)
There’s one key difference between Tim Horton’s Timbits and donut holes — Timbits are baked, not fried! And we can’t blame Dominic from enjoying the deliciously unique Canadian treat! Tea and Timbits, anyone?
Credit: Scott Grondin Photography
The Million Dollar Smiles teddy bear given to kids is definitely a sight to behold — heck, that furry fellow could have joined the crew up on stage!
The folks from Young & Restless don’t help out for the accolades or the recognition, but as outsiders, we certainly appreciate Million Dollar Smiles letting them know how much their work means with plaques they can take home as thanks for their service!
