National Kidney Foundation of Michigan Supporters Raise More Than $500,000 at 7th Annual Kidney Ball

DETROIT - On Saturday, December 3rd, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM), the largest affiliate of the National Kidney Foundation in the United States, gathered friends and supporters for the 7th Annual Kidney Ball at the MGM Grand Detroit. The charity event, themed “Motown Magic,” attracted nearly 700 attendees and raised more than $500,000. All proceeds will go toward the many programs and services offered by the NKFM to the more than 900,000 Michigan residents living with chronic kidney disease and the many more at risk.

The Motown-inspired evening included a cocktail hour with an expansive silent auction, dinner, an exciting live auction, live entertainment by the Jerry Ross Band, and an after party. The silent auction was well received with more than 300 items and raising more than $25,000. The outstanding, spirited atmosphere was created with Motown-themed décor and the soulful sounds of Motown played throughout the night.

Blanche Mack, Community Events Coordinator, Eastern Region Meijer and Myra Moreland, Executive Vice President of Sale Marketing & Communications for Revstone Industries who leads the committee for charitable giving for the Suburban Collection, served as the Event Co-Chairs. This year’s Honorary Chairs, Vivian Pickard, President of the General Motors Foundation, and Jim Vella, President of the Ford Fund were in attendance, as well as other local names such as R&B soul singer/songwriter KEM; President, CEO, and general manager of the Detroit Tigers Dave Dombrowski; former Detroit Lions offensive tackle, Lomas Brown; and many others.

“We have been told that the Kidney Ball is the most fun gala in the region,” said Dan Carney, President and CEO of the NKFM. “We strive to provide our guests with an unforgettable experience while keeping in mind that the Kidney Ball is an important fundraiser for our organization and for spreading awareness about kidney disease throughout Michigan. From the efforts of our Event Co-Chairs, to our dedicated committee, and wonderful volunteers, the NKFM is lucky to have so many friends and supporters.” The Kidney Ball was sponsored by Meijer, Lear, and many others.

For more information about the NKFM’s programs and services throughout Michigan, please go to www.nkfm.org or call 800-482-1455. Information about the Kidney Ball is available at www.kidneyball.or . You can also get regular updates from the NKFM on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and YouTube.

About the NKFM:

The NKFM, voted “Best Managed Nonprofit” of 2003 by Crain’s Detroit Business, and rated a 4-star charity by Charity Navigator, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established in 1955. Since its inception, the NKFM has led the fight against kidney disease and has increased awareness of the critical need for organ and tissue donations. The mission of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan is to prevent kidney disease and improve the quality of life for those living with it. The NKFM is widely known for providing more programs and services to more people than any other region or state.