One of Toronto's most recognizable real estate leaders is using his influence to support SickKids' efforts to bring a breakthrough piece of medical technology to Toronto.
If you follow Toronto real estate, you already know James Milonas. Known to his massive digital following as “James In The City,” the Managing Director at The Agency Toronto West is a powerhouse in the market, fresh off leading his team to a top-ranking spot for transaction volume. But if you think his world is strictly limited to sleek multi-million dollar downtown penthouses and high-end client staging, you’re only seeing half the picture.
When he isn’t navigating one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world, Milonas is changing lives across Toronto.
Next week, on June 4th, Milonas will trade his luxury open houses for the high-fashion, high-impact crowds of Scrubs in Our City, SickKids’ signature 25th-anniversary gala at Evergreen Brick Works.
For Milonas, attending isn't just about making an appearance on a red carpet; it’s the continuation of a lifelong mandate to give back.
Rooted in First-Generation Grit
The driving force behind Milonas's philanthropy is deeply personal. As the first-generation Canadian son of immigrant parents, he watched his family build a life and successful businesses in a new country from the ground up.
“My parents taught me the value of relentless hard work, but more importantly, they taught me that success is meaningless if you don’t pull others up with you,” Milonas reflects. That foundational lesson is woven directly into his business model as he supports several local charities annually.
James also supports a number of local charities, including the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) and Covenant House Toronto. He encourages young people to get involved in their communities, emphasizing that giving back does not have to mean writing a cheque. Whether through volunteering or joining a planning committee, there are many ways to make a meaningful impact.
‘Scrubs in Our City’ for Next-Gen Healthcare
On June 4th, Milonas will bring that exact same energy to Scrubs in Our City. This year's milestone event, presented by Holt Renfrew, is raising funds for a photon-counting CT scanner that could help SickKids physicians obtain more detailed images while exposing children to significantly less radiation.
This state-of-the-art technology is expected to advance pediatric precision medicine by providing exceptionally detailed imaging and helping physicians diagnose and monitor conditions with greater accuracy.
For Milonas, supporting initiatives that strengthen the health and well-being of Toronto communities is a natural extension of his long-standing commitment to giving back.
Breaking Stigmas: The Critical Fight for HIV/AIDS Research
While his philanthropic reach is wide, one cause hits incredibly close to home. As a proud gay man and an influential millennial voice, Milonas has dedicated years to championing the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR), where he has co-chaired milestone fundraising events like Can You Do Lunch? and served on the committee for Bloor Street Entertains.
Despite major advances in treatment and prevention, HIV continues to affect thousands of Canadians, making research, education, and community support as important as ever.
For James, using his platform to advocate for HIV/AIDS research is about education, visibility, and breaking down decades of lingering stigma.
“The conversation around HIV/AIDS research and prevention is as relevant today as it has ever been,” says Milonas. “We have the tools and the science to make an immense impact, but it requires continuous funding, loud voices, and unwavering community support to cross the finish line.”
When James Milonas steps into Evergreen Brick Works next week, he’ll be doing what he does best: championing the city he loves, one block—and one breakthrough—at a time.
Toronto Event Details
What: Scrubs in Our City Toronto
When: Thursday, June 4, 2026
Time: 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Where: Evergreen Brick Works
Location: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8
Organizer: Holt Renfrew
Written by: Kamarah Curling
