Earth Day on the River Was a Huge Success
Photo credit Ian Vecchiotti.
The wonders of the river system were celebrated Thursday, as donors, members, sponsors, and partners came together for a special Earth Day on the River cruise at our 18th Annual Big Fish Ball aboard the Odyssey Chicago River as it cruised under the shimmering lights of the downtown skyline.
The elegant evening was a joyful tribute to our collective impact, and was made possible through the hard work of our gala committee, chaired by board member and sponsor Stacee Hasenbalg, along with the tireless efforts of Friends’ staff, volunteers, donors, and partners.
In welcoming Big Fish Ball supporters, Hasenbalg said, “In my time at Friends, I have seen transformation occur. The relentless effort to engage with all communities of the watershed, to improve water quality, to create habitat for wildlife has led to a healthier, more accessible river system for all people, water, and wildlife.”
We’re deeply grateful to our Big Fish Ball sponsors and donors whose generosity fuels our public policy and planning initiatives, educational programs, and hands-on river restoration work. Special thanks also go to the Honorary Committee for their steadfast support of the Friends mission.
Silent Auction Open – Bid Now Through April 22 at 4 p.m.
If you couldn’t join us, there’s still time to support the river. Our silent auction is open through Earth Day, and it’s filled with exciting items and one-of-a-kind experiences, including:
- Concert tickets to see the Tedeschi Trucks Band
- A family-owned Folly Island Beach House just outside historic Charleston
- A private half-day architectural tour of Pullman National Historic Park
- Beautifully hand-painted Woodford Reserve bottles, monogrammed just for Friends
- …and much more!
Place your bid now, and thank you.
