This past Sunday I attended a benefit to raise funds for rebuilding an orphanage in Haiti, on behalf of the group Impact for Jesus. Visit the site and please by all means continue to contribute to the rebuilding of the much needed safe havens for these children. Read a bit more about the event and the people who created this amazing gathering of love!
Okay this is about two of my favorite guys - I mean way on the top of my list for changing the planet and building bridges for bringing people together-- always n the name of sharing, giving, rejoicing and remembering what we are here to do: "Love your life & Do good!
Yep, that would be our good friend Brian Reynolds and my brother Michael. The two of them put this whole fundraiser together in less than 10 days. Here's a fun shot of Brian (right), his son and a one of the guys from Impact for Jesus. And one of Michael (middle) with friends.
And, while some people in surrounding marketing positions told them they couldn't do it...well, they persevered and did it anyway! And I mean DID IT BIG!
They raised over $10700.00. Let that just settle in a minute...in one night friends and family opened their hearts through a simple invitation of music, gathering and a call to action. Pretty powerful stuff.
Don't you love that!
The best part is that number was before the final contributions made by Durty Nellies brothers Jim and Mark, offering 10% from food purchases. On top of that they hosted the venue at their wonderful bar and eatery in Palatine. Mark was working it the whole night and it wasn't lost on anyone that this could have been a Sunday off to recuperate from a long week. What good people!
There were 3 bands playing, plenty of great raffles: guitars, drum pad, every sporting event ticket, restaurants, art and more, all prizes were coordinated by Brian's amazing wife Mary Jo and supported by good friend Bonnie...and so many more I wish I could name here.
Here a few fun shots from the evening:
...including a shot of the handmade book "love your life & do good!" -- which I made for the raffle and I'm pleased to say I also got a photo of the winner who I hope was as happy winning it as it was to make!
Here's to remembering how lucky we are to have each other, generous friends and the drive to say "we can" when others say you can't...because together we just built an orphanage out of LOVE!
cheers, (remember it's tax deductible...so keep giving!)
Linda
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