Surrey’s “Art of Becoming” gala on Sept. 13 will honor Cynthia Janisse and raise funds for women’s recovery home expansion.
A Night of Hope and Healing
Surrey will soon welcome a night filled with purpose, inspiration, and community spirit. On September 13, a local non-profit, Back on Track Recovery, will host The Art of Becoming Gala at 6464 144 St. The event isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s a heartfelt tribute and a step toward helping more women on their journey to recovery.
Honoring a Life That Changed Many
The gala will honor Cynthia Janisse, who passed away suddenly from a heart attack on December 20, 2023. To founder Cole Izak, Janisse was more than a partner and mother of his son—she was a guiding light. As an addictions counselor and strong advocate for recovery, she helped shape Back on Track’s women’s program.
Izak shared that their story began on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, where both struggled with homelessness and addiction. After finding treatment, Janisse convinced him to do the same. “If it weren’t for Cynthia, I probably wouldn’t be alive today,” he reflected. Her influence was also pivotal in creating The Castle, the organization’s recovery home for women.
Why This Gala Matters
The recovery home currently supports 10 women battling substance abuse, but with a much-needed fire suppression system, capacity could double to 20 clients. The $50,000 upgrade is more than a safety feature—it’s a lifeline.
“There are women on the streets calling us every day, but we can’t take them in until this system is installed,” Izak explained.
What Guests Can Expect
The Art of Becoming Gala promises an evening that blends elegance with purpose. Guests will enjoy:
A garden-inspired menu
Live music and entertainment
Comedic performances
A dress code of semi-formal or elevated casual attire with an artistic twist
Tickets are priced at $161.42 each or $1,281.57 for a table of 10. Proceeds will directly fund the fire suppression system, expanding the safe haven Janisse helped establish.
How to Join or Support
Tickets can be purchased on EventBrite by searching “The Art of Becoming Gala.” For those who cannot attend but still wish to support, donations are being accepted at backontrackcanada.com.
The event description captures its spirit perfectly: “The Art of Becoming Gala is a celebration of order—the calm after chaos, the structure that nurtures growth, and the strength found in rebuilding one’s life with intention.”
