15th Annual Dick Vitale Virtual Gala Breaking Records on September 4th

(Sarasota, FL)—The 15^thAnnual Dick Vitale Gala Virtual Experience “Passion 4 Pediatrics”will have a record-breaking year after raising $4.3 million in 2019 and setting a goal of $5 million for 2020 which has already been reached.   The V Foundation and Dick Vitale are on track to shatter their target and anticipate raising $7 million this year for pediatric cancer research.   

“I am so proud that even in trying times with the COVID-19 pandemic we will establish this incredible record on September 4th” says Dick Vitale.  “ I must thank all of you that have made this a reality. Obviously, Cindy and Mark Pentecost sparked our fundraising efforts by challenging us to match $2 million, which was VITAL.  Also, the $500,000 gifted by Mark Cuban gave us an incentive to reach out to others in the sports, business and television landscape and everyone responded in a very positive manner.”

The Gala, one of the nation’s leading cancer research fundraisers, will be held virtually beginning at 7:00pm.  The line-up will include Honorees Bruce Arians, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach, Mark Few, Gonzaga University Head Basketball Coach and ESPN Commentator Stephen A. Smith.  The John Saunders V Foundation Courage Award will be bestowed upon Football Hall of Famer Jim Kellyand Basketball Hall of Famer Pat Williams.  Special guest, Mitch Albom, will be accepting a pediatric cancer research grant in memory of his daughter, Chika Jeune.   In addition, there will be a grant presented to the parents of Will DeGregorio, who passed away in June after a long battle with osteosarcoma.  The program will include a musical performance by Mikari Tarpley, a live auction with VIP experiences and other special features.

For more information about the 15^thAnnual Dick Vitale Gala Virtual Experience, please call 941-350-0580 or email rebecca@marykenealyevents.comto request a reservation form.