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Annual Gala Celebrates
20 Years of Making a DIFFA-rance
(June 23, 2008 – Chicago) The Chicago Chapter of Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) recently celebrated its 20th anniversary at its annual fundraising event, themed Black to Basics, paying homage to the time when the organization held its first gala. Past velvet ropes, imposing bouncers and through a foggy haze, guests emerged into a fantastical 1980’s nightclub replete with disco balls, glittering lights and mirrored columns to raise money for DIFFA/Chicago.
DuPont Corian was the title sponsor of the event held at McCormick Place West, Skyline Ballroom. Dupont was joined by Herman Miller as the event’s Legacy Benefactor, as well as by Steelcase and Shaw Contract Group as Presenting Sponsors.
“This year’s gala was truly special as we celebrated 20 years of making a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS. Through the years, DIFFA/Chicago has raised over $35 million dollars in grants to local HIV/AIDS related organizations. Our mission is to continue to fund and support our local service providers until there is a cure,” said Jennifer McGregor, Chairman, Board of Directors, DIFFA/Chicago.
During the 80’s-inspired evening, guests enjoyed courses named after iconic Chicago nightclubs, were entertained by drag queens performing songs by Madonna and Cher, and participated in a silent and live auction that, by the end of the night, raised over $560,000.
The Unsung Hero Award is an annual DIFFA gala tradition. The honor this year went to to Michele Rust, a woman that goes above and beyond in supporting the DIFFA organization. She was one of the first co-chairs of Dining by Design and remains a key contributor to the Chicago Chapter’s growth and success.
DIFFA/Chicago is a not-for-profit fundraising and grant-making foundation that distributes funds to Chicago area HIV/AIDS service agencies that provide direct service, preventative education and outreach to people who are HIV positive, living with AIDS or at risk for infection. Founded in 1984, DIFFA has granted more than $35 million to hundreds of community-based organizations. For more information contact DIFFA/Chicago office at 312.644.6412, or visit www.diffachicago.org
