The V Foundation for Cancer Research Hosts Inaugural Chicago Gala: UNDEFEATED 2013

CHICAGO - Aug. 26, 2013 - PRLog -- The V Foundation for Cancer Research, one of the nation’s leading cancer research funding organizations, is excited to announce the UNDEFEATED 2013 gala in Chicago.  The inaugural event will be held at Zhou B Art Center on September 26, 2013, and will include a full night of food, entertainment and all types of art.  Speakers from The V Foundation will also discuss the importance of cancer research and the Foundation’s commitment to the city of Chicago.

“For UNDEFEATED to bring together so many passionate individuals from the world of sports, art and music in the fight against cancer is truly remarkable and very exciting,” said Susan Braun, CEO of The V Foundation.  “The gala embodies all that Jim Valvano meant when he urged us all to “Laugh, Think and Cry” during his unforgettable ESPY Awards speech.  For us to be able to experience such emotions, while supporting cancer researchers nationwide, would make Jim proud.” 

Guests will be greeted by Second City comedic actors, enjoy live music, an environmental painter and many other interactive performances.  Celebrity chefs Rick Bayless and Eric LeVine will conjure up small-plate creations and renowned mixologists will create unique cocktails throughout the evening.  A silent auction will feature wine tours through Monterey, California, Disney Cruise packages, original art from the Zhou B brothers and much more.  For the final segment of the evening, guests will move upstairs where a sixty-foot screen will showcase visual artistry, a live DJ and a final course of culinary delights.  A surprise grand finale will also be unveiled.  Individual tickets are $250 and on sale now. 

“It’s time for the City of Big Shoulders to take the fight to cancer,” said Jade Thamasucharit, a Chicago resident and member of the Chicago “Friends of V” committee.  “We’re looking to focus the inherent goodwill within this town through the lens of art and life to ensure that future stories that involve this tragic disease end with our collective triumph over it.”

The V Foundation was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary NC State basketball coach and ESPN commentator.  In its 20 years, The V Foundation has awarded more than $100 million for research into all types of cancer to more than 100 institutions in 38 states and the District of Columbia.  More than $1.4 million has been awarded at the University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

To purchase tickets and for more information, please visit www.UNDEFEATEDChicago.org.  For information on sponsorships, please contact Sue Tracey at stracey@jimmyv.org or 919-380-9505.