An Ottawa real estate developer is helping support Villa Marconi, with this year’s Raising the Roof fundraiser bringing in a record amount for the long-term care home. Rick Iafelice was this year’s honouree at the annual fundraiser that raised more than $350,000, more than double the event’s previous record. “Our goal is to raise money for Villa Marconi, to better it,” Iafelice said. Villa Marconi opened in 1999 and now operates 128 licensed long-term care beds. The money raised will fund major improvements not covered by government funding. “I remember a few years ago, we raised money to buy 160 new hospital beds because they needed new beds. This year, we were raising money because the elevators are toast. So, we’re always doing capital improvements outside of what the government will give us,” Iafelice said. Iafelice was recognized for his support of Villa Marconi and the Italian community. “I’m humbled by it. It’s a great honor to be part of this organization. I see Villa Marconi as our foundation for the Italian community,” he said. For Iafelice, one of the highlights of the evening was being able to share the occasion with his family, including four of his six grandchildren. “The most important thing about the whole evening is that I was able to share it with my children, my wife, my family, my friends. But especially of all, I had four of my six grandchildren there. So, that was the most amazing part of the whole night,” he said.
