The Event: Guests of the 10th anniversary of BLU, Shedd Aquarium auxiliary board(1)s signature event, were delighted to learn that, to date, the annual fundraiser has raised in excess of $3 million to support the 32,000 animals housed under Shedd(1)s roof, its education and conservation efforts.
On Aug. 6, 1070 supporters savored treats from 28 top area restaurants while strolling along aquarium galleries, then helped raise even more money following an an awe-inspiring aquatic presentation of belugas, dolphins and penguins.
Every year, Shedd Aquarium welcomes more than two million visitors from all 50 states and 180 countries.
More Top Picks Best Personal Blenders For Smoothies
Cause célebre: “(The Shedd) is iconic Chicago,” said Susan Hedlund of Chicago, event co-chairman and eight-year auxiliary board member. “Not just here in the city but globally, the reach goes beyond these walls and it just happens to be in such a beautiful place.”
An “aux member” for three years, Doug McClure of Chicago said that Shedd inspires feelings of nostalgia for his childhood. “It really engendered something into me and I’ve always wanted to make sure that we continue to give back to that next generation coming up behind us.”
Support for the Shedd enables it to educate one in every four Chicago public school students on aquatic animals annually.
“To see it through (kids’) eyes is something special (and) it’s our job to be ambassadors,” said said Brett Herbison of Elmhurst, auxiliary board member. “We have a six-month-old and I look forward to bringing him around.”
Bottom line: BLU raised more than $450,000 dollars for Shedd(1)s animal rescue and rehab, conservation and education initiatives. More at sheddaquarium.org