Unicef Next Generation hosted its second annual Unicef Chicago Masquerade Ball October 16 at Moonlight Studios. Geared toward young philanthropists, the event had a fund-raising goal that was $25,000 higher than last year's. "The event committee increased the target donation goal right off the bat to support Unicef's life-saving work for children around the globe," said Elisabeth Kasdorf-Torney, Unicef's manager of special events. "They well knew the buzz the inaugural event received and decided to enhance the guest experience to generate additional funds."
Along with HMR Designs' V.I.P. lounges and Paramount Events' cleverly themed menu (items included "Edible Pixie Dust"), the guest experience was enhanced through games. As they entered the event, attendees received colored wristbands that designated them as members of one of two teams: the Pirates or the Lost Boys.
Throughout the evening, guests could make donations to participate in three activities. At a "Living Giving Wall," partygoers could purchase colored lights to add to a decorative wall. The "Water Walk Challenge" let donors attempt to carry 10-pound water gallons, to experience a feat that children across the globe take on every day; there was also a punch wall, where volunteers recorded the team that each participant was on. "The Lost Boys 'won' in the end by giving the most through all three activations," Kasdorf-Torney said. "Overall, it was a fun way for our guests to join together for Unicef and enjoy our Neverland theme." The night raised $115,000, exceeding its goal by $15,000.
