Chicago foodies raise nearly half a million dollars for the American Cancer Society at 5th annual Taste of Hope

The American Cancer Society's 2018 Taste of Hope, Around the World, raised more than $485,000 net to impact the lives of those affected by cancer. The 5th annual tasting event was organized by a Leadership Council of 32 volunteers led by co-chairs Victoria De La Huerga from ADM and Jeff Liljeberg from JLL. The event boasted nearly 700 guests on Thursday, November 8 at Morgan Manufacturing.

Presenting sponsors ADM and BMO Financial Group were instrumental to the success of the evening. "This is our third year as a presenting sponsor for Taste of Hope and this year we are proud to co-sponsor with BMO Financial Group," said Ray Young, CFO at ADM.

Fifteen Chicago area restaurants provided a variety of interaction and tasting opportunities including a demonstrative fresh dosa station from The Art of Dosa; ahi tuna and watermelon skewers from Summerhouse and Chicago-celebrity sighting of Billy Dec owner of Sunda at their station.

"It's a super honor for us to be here," said Dec. "I think all restaurants should support the American Cancer Society at this event. It's fun. The community gets together not just to support the scariness of cancer, but the positivity and energy behind fighting it."

Aside from epicure delights, the evening's casual atmosphere was highlighted by entertaining emcee Marz from Charizma Entertainment, Caregiver Speaker: Greg Leos from Bank of America Merchant Services, Kendra Scott Jewelry Pull, multiple raffles and the very successful wine pull.

The walls of the front hall were adorned with larger than life banners in honor or memory of loved ones affected by cancer. Individuals and companies participated in sponsoring the banners.

The ongoing success of the American Cancer Society's Taste of Hope is rooted in a strong foundation of corporate support. This year, that support was led by VIP Reception Sponsors including BakerMcKenzie, Deloitte, innis Law Group, JLL, Lazard and Skadden. In addition, Auction Level Sponsors included Advocate Health Care, Jenner & Block LLP, McDermott Will & Emery, NBC Sports Chicago and Diane and Ray Roman. Nearly 50 additional individuals and companies completed the list of sponsors.