The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI) hosted its annual gala, themed “Light the Way, Together,” at The Geraghty. The gala celebrated 47 years of supporting families with hospitalized children, as guests donned their favorite red shoes and enjoyed live music, live and silent auctions and late-night McDonald’s snacks.
Holly Buckendahl, CEO of RMHC-CNI, and board chair Marion Gross emphasized the charity’s impact and expressed gratitude to the 800 attendees for their ongoing support. The event honored the Molleda family, sharing their touching story of how RMHC facilities aided their son Zadakiel’s medical journey and recognized the top 10 McDonald’s general managers for their contributions to the charity.
The philanthropic evening raised more than $1.7 million, ensuring RMHC-CNI’s ongoing support for families with hospitalized children through various programs, including the Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.
Holly Buckendahl delivered a captivating address to the audience.
Vince and Dee Brown
John and Maribeth Ulrich
Brian and Marion Gross with Matt Weisz
Russ Smyth, Marion Gross, Jen and Mark Landolt and Dawn Smyth
Kevin Ozan, Chandler Dimberg, Holly Buckendahl and Bob McGonigle
Photography by: HILARY HIGGINS
