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“This year’s event was an incredible success that will help to make a difference in the lives of so many children,” said Marjorie Schaffner, Executive Director of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, Midwest Region. “Across the globe, there are more than 15 million children under the age of 18 who have lost a mother, father, or both parents to AIDS. On behalf of those children, we’d like to thank everyone who participated in Designs of Hope for showing that you care.” Actor Laurence Fishburne made a special appearance at the gala, held at the InterContinental Hotel Chicago, to relate his experience as a U.S. Fund for UNICEF National Ambassador, including his recent trip to South Africa where he visited UNICEF-supported programs for children affected by HIV/AIDS. Hosted by Janet Davies of ABC Channel 7, Designs of Hope was billed as a “A Celebration of Cultures” and showcased the diversity and talent of Chicago’s fashion community. The evening began with a silent auction and cocktail reception, followed by a multi-course dinner of international gourmet cuisine prepared by InterContinental Executive Chef Helmut Sussenbach. Entertainment included appearances by the Chicago Childrens’ Choir, The Three Waiters, and a fashion show highlighting the outstanding work of an ethnically diverse, cutting-edge group of Chicago-based designers. National sponsors for Designs of Hope were Delta Air Lines and ELLE magazine. Other key local sponsors included Archipelago, BBDO Chicago, Credit Suisse First Boston, Merrill Lynch, JP Morgan Chase, and Pricewaterhouse Coopers. Marc Miller and Sally Miller served as the event’s co-chairs. Live auction items included a two-year lease on the winner’s choice of a Porsche Boxter or Cayenne, donated by Joe Rizza Enterprises. InterContinental Hotels and Delta Airlines donated exciting vacation packages, including a trip to New York City for Olympus Fashion Week, including a photo session with world-renowned fashion photographer Gilles Bensimon of ELLE magazine; a Napa Valley wine country weekend; and a five-night stay at the historic Amstel InterContinental in Amsterdam. Created by InterContinental Hotels Group, the parent company of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Designs of Hope debuted in Atlanta in 2002 and has now grown to include events in Chicago and Houston. Since its inception in 2002, the combined Designs of Hope events will raise $1.7 million for UNICEF. |
| Contact: Monica Smith Corporate Communications Coordinator InterContinental Hotels Group Three Ravinia Drive, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30346 Telephone: (770) 604-5562 Fax: (770) 604-2059 Email: [email protected] |