A young group of dynamic professionals have beneficially joined forces in order to stir up the very notion of fundraising. The DNA committee is a newly formed association of the Fondation du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montreal (CHUM.) It is comprised of a small group of Montreal’s most driven individuals, committed to raising awareness by reaching out to a new generation of donors. Their approach aims to spark an interest for younger generations, in order to create and sustain a sense of attachment through ingenious fundraising activities.
The DNA committee’s first benefit soirée, DNA Experience, was held last Friday (October 12th) at L’Espace Griffintown, one of the niftiest venues in the city. The unique urban space was transformed into a sophisticatedly hip setting, reflecting the committee’s visionary spirit, as well as their distinct approach to fundraising. Upon entering the laboratory themed event, attendees were handed a prescription to visit one of the many “medical” stations situated in all corners of the bustling space.
The open bar (laboratory) was a popular spot where guests enjoyed meticulously formulated cocktails, while keeping hydrated at the neighbouring FIJI counter. The food station was also an occupied corner, serving up delectable goods from some of Montreal’s best eateries, including BEVO Bar + Pizzeria, Taverne Gaspar and Suite 701. The impeccable menu included overindulgence in delicious sliders, foie de gras, nutella pizza (you read right), as well as an appetizing oyster bar. A candy bar (the pharmacy) was also stationed at the lounge area, where invitees filled up their pillboxes with an assortment of flavorful treats.
During the course of the evening, the director of benefit activities, Anne-Marie Côté, presented a special exposition that clearly depicted the committee’s philanthropic temperament. Guests were also handed “test tube” cocktails in order to cheer the committee on as they unveiled their impressive grossed sum of $200,000. The sold out event housed more than double the amount of expected guests, rendering the inaugural evening utterly memorable. The creation of the committee, as well as the success of the DNA Experience, certainly marked a transformative era in medicine for Montreal. For donations, as well as to keep up-to-date with future ventures, including their ingenious “Golf in Snow” tournament in Mont-Tremblant this February, click here.
Photo courtesy Fondation du Chum