Pizza Nova raises $68K at annual golf tournament

Markham, Ont. – Pizza Nova recently presented a cheque for $68,200 to Villa Charities to support culturally sensitive care for senior citizens in the Greater Toronto Area, assistance for those with intellectual disabilities and general promotion of fitness, culture and the arts.

The funds were raised at the Ontario company’s annual golf tournament held at Station Creek Golf Club near Markham, Ont., on May 30. Every year since 1994, Pizza Nova franchisees, suppliers, business associates, affiliated organizations, family and friends have been invited out for a day of golfing, networking, enjoying specialty pizza and helping out with a worthy cause.

Arthur Macri, a franchisee for 16 years beginning with his store at Victoria Street and Sheppard Avenue, was on hand to participate and enjoy the day. In 1986 Macri traded his franchise for a position at the chain’s head office. He had advice for new franchisees: “Look at the people who run the company and see where you’re at. Here it’s like having a second family. Then it becomes how hard you want to work.”

The event has grown from about 80 participants to 260, Pizza Nova president Domenic Primucci told Canadian Pizza. “We just want to give back. This industry is all about family.” When asked how he chooses which causes to support, Primucci said, “We spearhead two causes – Villa Charities and Variety Village (through the company’s annual “That’s Amore for Kids” event) – and then we look at helping others. You can’t help everyone, but you can try.”

A reception for participants was held that evening at Le Parq banquet hall in Markham.