Society

Ravinia Festival celebrated another successful edition of its annual Music Matters fundraiser, expertly hosted by the Ravinia Associates Board. This year, the event raised more than $740,000 in support of the festival’s Reach Teach Play music education initiatives. These invaluable programs touch the lives of more than 20,000 students annually, fostering a love for music

The Art Center Highland Park’s spring benefit, “The Benefit,” was an art-filled evening emphasizing how the arts are mutually beneficial to the city and community. Guests enjoyed cocktails, light bites, and galleries full of art. This year’s event had the highest attendance to date. theartcenterhp.org

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago hosted its 19th Annual Guild Board Lawn Ball at the Saddle & Cycle Club. This year’s theme, “Under the Big Top,” transformed the venue into a dazzling circus extravaganza. Graciously led by Jancy Audet, Chris Brannan, and Carter Wojteczko, the event raised $511,860 with 245 guests in attendance.

The Chicago-based GI Research Foundation’s 63rd annual ball was attended by 550 guests and raised almost $1.8 million for gastrointestinal-related research at the University of Chicago and other leading institutions. Sy Taxman, founder and former CEO of the Chicago real estate development company Taxman Corp., was recognized with the Joseph B. Kirsner Award for his

The WINGS North Shore Leadership Council hosted its 3rd annual Ladies Luncheon at Westmoreland Country Club in Wilmette raising more than $110,000 to support survivors of domestic violence. At the sold-out event, emceed by Suzanne Le Mignot, attendees enjoyed champagne, lunch, a floral step and repeat from Anna Smutek of JB Event Decor, a raffle,