Fighting cancer doesn’t usually involve spy work, but attendees can get a dose of both at an upcoming fundraiser.
Shine A Light On Joy will be held at the SPYSCAPE Museum in New York City on May 18, benefiting the Jessie Rees Foundation ⏤ Never Ever Give Up ⏤ whose mission is to support pediatric cancer patients and their families. The heart of the foundation is its emphasis on JoyJars, small containers of items filled with age-appropriate trinkets and toys to encourage patients going through treatments.
“Our whole goal in throwing this fundraiser is to raise more awareness to kids battling cancer as well as raise more funding so we can spread more joy to these children and their families,” said Grant Frum, director of networks and community development for the foundation.
The event will include heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar, cocktail hour and networking time. Speakers will include Jessie Rees’ father Erik, who is also CEO of the foundation; supporter and former CIA operative Dan Hoffman; and breast cancer survivor Jennifer Griffin as emcee.
The event will also include a video testimony by Jessie Rees, the founder of the organization who passed away at age 12 after a battle with cancer.
There will be silent and live auctions and opportunities for people to give as they feel comfortable. John McDermott, founding member of The Irish Tenors, will give a private performance before attendees have the opportunity to enjoy the SPYSCAPE Museum for a special time reserved only for event attendees.
“We are humbled and honored to be able to host this new fundraiser in New York,” said Erik Rees. “This special event will help send Jessie’s JoyJars to thousands of Courageous Kids fighting cancer around the world. Most importantly, this means we get to start a relationship with a child and a family, so we can provide them the needed long-term support and encouragement so they ‘Never Ever Give Up!’”
Corporate sponsorships are available with opportunities to showcase companies through video, logos and more.
VIRGINIA NETWORK
A group of companies has teamed up to support Never Ever Give Up and its work in the Virginia area. The organization is putting together the support of 100 local companies for the effort and providing lunch and learn events, social media and website mentions, wristbands for employees and more.
Participation provides opportunities to support more than 2,500 pediatric cancer patients locally, encourage kids fighting cancer and expand their community involvement. Visit negu.org/vanetwork for more information.