4.15.14 | Chicago, IL | Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS/Chicago (DIFFA/Chicago) prepares for a celebration of illumination as it gears up for its 26th annual black-tie fete – The DIFFA/Chicago Believe 2014 Gala – The Crystal Ball – scheduled for June 7. 

Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, this year’s Gala will be held at one of Chicago’s iconic destinations - Navy Pier at the Grand Ballroom. The Crystal Ball intends to shine a light on what is possible and imagine a world without AIDS. It is the fourth in a series of six Believe Galas dedicated to DIFFA/Chicago Grantees. The Gala will recognize organizations supporting education and advocacy. 

With preparations well underway, The Crystal Ball promises to be an inspired and spirited event. Recognized as the social kickoff for NeoCon, nearly a thousand industry leaders and enthusiasts are expected to attend. Plans call for an evening of elegant dining, cocktails, dancing and star-studded performances that includes the U.S. debut of one of Canada’s top touring bands. 

The Crystal Ball will also feature a series of enlightening presentations as well as its highly anticipated live auction and raffle, featuring exclusive and rarely available experiences and offerings. Catherine De Orio, television host of Chicago’s popular Check, Please!, will serve as the Gala emcee. The evening’s keynote speaker will be Dr. John Flaherty of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, who will present promising updates on HIV/AIDS. Gala co-chairs are Ron Leiserowitz, Lynn Fordon, Mary Jo Fasan and Frances Renk. 

Event sponsors include Herman Miller as Legacy Benefactor and Steelcase as Presenting Sponsor. The Design Center of The Merchandise Mart will be the event’s Sustaining Benefactor. United Airlines, BMO Harris Bank, Shaw Contract Group and Versteel are the Gala’s Host Sponsors. Contract Magazine will return as the event’s National Media Sponsor. CS/Modern Luxury Interiors Chicago will be the Gala’s local media sponsor. Sparc, Inc. will serve as the Brand Design & Sponsor. All proceeds from the Gala will go to Chicago-area service agencies providing assistance, education and outreach to those living with HIV/AIDS. 

About DIFFA/Chicago 

DIFFA/Chicago (The Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids) is a not-for- profit Fundraising and grant making foundation that distributes funds to Chicago area HIV/ AIDS Service agencies that provide direct services, preventative education and outreach to people who are HIV positive, living with AIDS or at risk for infection. Founded in 1984, DIFFA has granted more than $40 million to hundreds of community- based organizations nationwide. For more information visit www.diffachicago.org.