A Starry Night for Wellness House
Under One Sky 3 Location fundraiser a success
By HM Staff
Over 580 guests attended Under One Sky on Friday, October 15, the annual fall fundraiser for Wellness House. The stars aligned during an incredible one- of-a-kind evening where 3 suburban locations: Butterfield Country Club, Chicago Highlands Club and Hinsdale Golf Club were held simultaneously, all under one sky. Led by eight Luminaries with a profound history of supporting Wellness House, guests at all locations enjoyed cocktails, a seated dinner, wine auction, program, live auction and dancing. The live auction and paddle raise were conducted via live feed which brought each location together as one to raise over $800,000. Donations raised during Under One Sky will help fund over 500 online and in-person programs a month, including Information and Education, Exercise, Nutrition, Stress Management, Child and Family, and Support Groups and Counseling. All Wellness House programs are evidence-based and help people with cancer reduce side effects, learn coping and relaxation techniques, exercise safely for increased energy, and feel less isolated. During the pandemic, all programs moved online with over 47,000 visits made in FY 2021.
The transition to online programs during the pandemic removed geographic barriers to participation and increased access to programs. The event signifies a shared commitment to help people affected by cancer thrive – all Under One Sky for Wellness House. “Under One Sky was a night filled with stars! We are beyond grateful for the energy, passion, and commitment our community showed for Wellness House. The generosity of our guests will help make sure we continue to care for and support anyone impacted by cancer.” Lisa Kolavennu, Executive Director. A special thank you to all the wonderful Luminaries: Angie & Wes Breton, Stephanie & Freddie Brzozowski, Lauren & Matt Houder, Debbie & Jim Hultquist Jenna & Ken Julian, Briana & Peter Murray, Lori & Clay Naccarato, Beth Sharp. Save the Date for next year’s ball on Saturday, October 15 at the Four Seasons, Chicago. Donations can still be made via wellnesshouse.org/ball-2021
About Wellness House
32 years ago, a group of people came together because they saw, firsthand, the impact of cancer on their families and friends. Out of concern and determination, Wellness House was born to lighten cancer’s burden through programs that support, inform and educate people affected by cancer. Since then, more than 44,000 people have been impacted by Wellness House. Wellness House envisions a community where all people affected by cancer thrive. Offered at no cost, and as a complement to medical treatment, our programs educate, support, and empower participants so they will improve their physical and emotional well-being. For more information, visit wellnesshouse.org
*Photos by Marcello Rodarte (Full gallery here)
