Signature Events: Gift of Life Gala
empowering communities
bringing our vision to life
Push the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois further along the path to progress by attending the annual Gift of Life Gala. This stylish soiree is a memorable evening of elegance and passion, raising funds to fuel our mission, fun entertainment, and civic spirit.
Now in its fourth decade, the Gift of Life Gala brings together leaders in government, medicine, and business, rallying support for the work and mission of the NKFI. Stand with us and we'll raise much-needed funds for free screening programs and community health initiatives. Together, we will help thousands of Illinois families lead healthier, happier lives.
location and schedule
let's get to the gala
The Evening
Raffle | Awards
Special Guests | Cocktails
Saturday, November 1, 2025
6:00 pm - Cocktails
7:00 pm - Dinner and Program
9:00 pm - Raffle Winners Called
10:00 pm - Evening concludes
Event Details
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Attire
Cocktail attire, guests are encouraged to wear a splash of orange
Emcee
Regina Waldroup, NBC5 Chicago
event honorees, 2024
spotlight on awardees, 2025 awardees coming soon!
Gift of Life Award
Illinois Public Health Association
Each year, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI) honors individuals and organizations with the Gift of Life award. This award has been given to recognize individuals and entities that have truly made a difference in the world of kidney disease, prevention, transplantation and organ donation and therefore, have advanced the success of the NKFI.
Harold & Molly Schwartz Founders' Award
Dr. Holly Mattix-Kramer, MD, MPH
The family of Harold & Molly Schwartz established the Founders Award in their honor, following Harold’s death in 2005. Harold was a founding member of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI) and supported the NKFI in its efforts throughout his life. The Founders Award will be given to a volunteer or board member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and achievement on behalf of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. This is not an annual award; it is given based on merit.
Advocate Award
Illinois State Senator Christopher Belt
Illinois State Senator Mattie Hunter,
Illinois State Representative Maurice West
The Advocate Award recognizes an individual or individuals responsible for significant advocacy promoting NKFI’s legislative priorities. Awardees are responsible for significant activity around a legislative issue that has a positive impact on kidney health.
gift of life gala sponsors
you make the difference
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois wouldn't be able to impact the lives of patients, families, and communities without the help of our dedicated, Gift for Life Gala sponsors. Interested in sponsoring this event? Contact Allie Widmer at awidmer@nkfi.org or 312-321-1500.
Host Committee
