Nearly 600 guests attended the Harold E. Eisenberg Foundation’s Annual Dinner Gala, raised more than $700,000 to benefit gastrointestinal cancer research and real estate education, and networked with colleagues during cocktail and dessert receptions. The event was held November 6 at the Chicago Hilton & Towers on Michigan Avenue.
“It is humbling, one year removed from commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Foundation, to once again have the real estate and cancer research communities come together as we work toward a common goal,” said Peter Eisenberg, President of the Board of the Eisenberg Foundation. “Yet we also know that there is so much more work to be done as we continue this essential work.”
Following the dinner, professional auctioneers took to the stage for the Foundation’s annual donor live appeal. Each guest was invited to raise their customized paddle to support ongoing Foundation initiatives. For example:
· Each $10,000 donation funds 10% of two cancer research projects this year.
· Each $5,000 donation funds one student to participate in the Foundation’s Real Estate Scholar Program for the year.
· Each $2,500 donation supports our Cancer Care Package Program for one month.
· Each $1,000 donation supports one ‘Journey’ for our Level Program – welcoming 30 intercity high school students to learn more about careers in commercial real estate.
· Each $500 donation covers the cost of five cancer care packages for patients undergoing treatment at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
· Each $250 donation underwrites the cost of a student to attend Career Day at no cost.
“Events like our Annual Dinner occur because of the work and efforts of so many individuals and companies who conceptualize, organize, and execute ways in which we can raise awareness and contributions to gastrointestinal research,” said Kristen Young, Executive Director, Harold E. Eisenberg Foundation. “Whether you are a volunteer, donor, cancer survivor or caregiver, your support matters. And we thank you.”
In a bonus fundraising effort, the Foundation assembled a special date night gift package that included a pair of diamond hoop earrings, valued at $4,400 and generously donated by Diamonds Direct, a $200 gift card to Capital Grill, and a one-night deluxe room at the Hilton Chicago. More than 250 guests participated in the paddle raise.
“Federal funding for cancer research is the lowest it’s been in decades,” Young said. “Every donation, from individuals and companies, allows organizations like the Eisenberg Foundation to help make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.”
During the dinner portion of the program, guests heard comments from the 2025 Event co-chairs, Bart Johnson (Wintrust) and Chris Malencek (Studio GC); Thomas Lovell (Northstar Finance), chair of the Cancer Research Committee; Kristen Young, Executive Director of the Harold E. Eisenberg Foundation, and Peter Eisenberg, Board President.
In all, 200+ companies, individuals and families sponsored the 2025 Annual Dinner providing varying levels of support. Signature and Premiere Partners for the event included Colliers, Imperial Realty Company, Old Second National Bank, Iron Ridge Partners, Harrison LLP, FGMK, Meltzer, Purtill & Stelle, Elrod Friedman and Pine Tree. Media Partners included France Media, REjournals, Connect CRE Media, and Open Slate Communications.
The Eisenberg Foundation hosts and produces numerous events throughout the year. These events are designed to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and to provide education and mentorship opportunities within the commercial real estate industry. Earlier this year, at the Foundation’s Annual Meeting, the following accomplishments were highlighted:
· $4 million raised for cancer research
· 28,000 tissue samples donated
· 13 research projects funded
· The creation of the Eisenberg OncoSET program
· 500 Cancer Care packages delivered to cancer patients
The Foundation’s work in real estate education has produced:
· 2,100 mentorships
· 2,400 Career Day and Real Bright Summit attendees
· 1,000 RE Challenge participants
· 200+ mentors
· 100+ university partners
· 57 real estate scholars
· $550,000 in scholarship awards
