It was a full house at The John Buck Company‘s 2016 summer kick-off event, the 28th Annual Spring Fling. Approximately 2,600 guests attended the industry mixer, which is put on by the firm’s charitable arm, The John Buck Company Foundation.
Every year, the foundation hosts the annual Spring Fling– otherwise known as the city’s biggest real estate event– to support Chicago-area organizations whose programs enrich the quality of life for children and families while placing a strong emphasis and education.
This year’s event benefited Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago, which provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring relationships that change their lives for the better. The organization creates professionally supported one-to-one relationships by matching children with adult volunteers who serve as their mentors.
The annual Spring Fling is notorious for hosting a large gathering outside of Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, where thousands of business professionals come out to enjoy scenic, skyline views and endless amounts of food, drinks and music. The event continues to grow year-after-year, and the numbers are proof.
Donna Wright, Spring Fling event coordinator at The John Buck Company, told Illinois Real Estate Journal that there were 3,000 tickets distributed this year, which is 400 more than last year.
“Last year, we had 108 corporate sponsors and it totaled $511,000, and this year we have 118 corporate sponsors for $561,250 so this is a record for us,” she said.
The net amount in 2015 was said to be approximately $642,000, and although the total net amount for 2016 hasn’t been confirmed, Wright said this was the first year to see a seven-figure gross.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago lies closely with the firm’s mission and its Foundation as two team members of The John Buck Company are on the organization’s junior board.
Next year’s beneficiary, which Wright said was confirmed two weeks ago, is By The Hand Club For Kids, a Chicago-based after-school program that emphasizes academic excellence while nurturing the child’s mind, body and soul.
