The CRIS 2020 virtual gala: ”A Time For Research”
Our biggest fundraising event went virtual in 2020, raising over £770,000 to fund vital research into cancer treatments.
Every year, our annual fundraising ball raises an incredible amount of money for cancer research. But with social distancing guidelines in place, a ball with 400 guests in one venue was impossible. So, in 2020, we decided to bring the ball to our guests, using a virtual event platform.
On Saturday 7 November, we held the CRIS 2020 virtual fundraising gala with guests joining from the UK, Europe and North America. The theme for the evening was: “A Time For Research”, which highlighted the need to support research into cancer treatments during the pandemic and beyond.
Guests took part in a silent auction and prize draw. Our supporters donated incredible prizes like a stay at an exclusive holiday home and valuable art and sports memorabilia. Guests in London also enjoyed a delicious three-course dinner delivered to their door, which was prepared by London restaurants Hispania and Pizarro.
It was our first virtual event, and we were overwhelmed by the support we received from the CRIS community, including loyal supporters, researchers, doctors and volunteers. We were absolutely thrilled to raise over £770,000 on the night. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsor R.J. O’Brien, all this money will go towards funding research into cancer treatments. We are deeply appreciative of everyone’s support.
Watch the event video here.