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.
invitation
Check out the full invitation and send it to friends and family members who may be interested in attending.
be a sponsor
Help fuel the NKFI's free community education and patient service programs. Click below to contact us and learn more about sponsoring this event.
get tickets
Guests have the option to purchase tickets individually, or in a group, by purchasing a sponsorship
(see button to the left.)
location and schedule
let's get to the gala
Virtual
This year's event will be held virtually. Enjoy the festivities from home. Jackets (and pants) optional.
CEREMONY
Link to the Gala Zoom will be sent to
those who have purchased tickets and sponsorships.
The Evening
Silent Auction | Themed Activities
Special Guests | Cocktails
Thursday, October 29, 2020
6:00 pm - Cocktails
6:15 pm - Program begins
7:00 pm - Silent auction closes
7:00 pm - Evening concludes
Emcee
Pat Tomasulo, WGN-TV
Special Guests
Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White
Darrin Jackson, Chicago White Sox
event honorees
spotlight on supporters
Gift of Life Award
Ed Farmer (posthumous)
Organ Recipient & Advocate for Organ Donation
Senator Mattie Hunter
State Senator & Champion of Kidney Health
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.
Corporate Partner Award
Baxter International, Inc.
Renal Care
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois is pleased to acknowledge Baxter International, Inc. as this year's Corporate Partner awardee. Baxter is a leader in the renal care industry, pioneering therapy options for people with kidney disease, including peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis. Team Baxter has given generously of their time and financial resources to the foundation over the years, but most specifically as the presenting sponsor of the Walk for Kidneys since its inception in 1999. We thank Baxter for their incredible support, and are so pleased to recognize them with the Corporate Partner Award.
photos from past galas
an annual, stylish success
2019 Gallery
2018 Gallery
2017 Gallery
2016
Gallery
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? Click here to review the sponsorship opportunities or contact Heidi Merritt at hmerritt@nkfi.org or 312-321-1500.
Presenting Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Jill Schaaf
Host Committee
Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, retired
Kevin Lee, Mid America Transplant
Dr. Tipu Puri, University of Chicago
Mark Schwartz, Morgan Stanley
THANKS FOR FUELING OUR FUTURE
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