Nearly 1,000 food industry executives united to support City of Hope at the Festival Ball in San Francisco on Sept.12, raising more than $1 million for cancer programs.
Attendees at the Northern California Food Industries Circle (NCFIC) event at the Westin St. Francis included many of the industry’s retailers, manufacturers, brokers and related vendors, as well as patients who have been treated at City of Hope.
 The Festival Ball honored supporters including, from left, Henry Michon, Debby Michon and Don Reid. (Photo by Pat Johnson) |
“We are grateful to the food industry for their 31 years of support for City of Hope,” said Heather Olinto, director of development in the San Francisco Nothwest Regional Headquarters. “This year’s fundraising initiative was especially successful due to the dedication and perseverance of the sponsorship committee. They started obtaining pledges early, which was key to achieving their goal.”
At this years’ gala, Henry Michon, senior vice president of dairy, refrigerated and frozen foods at Safeway and NCFIC board president, was presented with the Jim Vlamis Humanitarian Award for his 20 years of devoted service to City of Hope.
Michon has chaired NCFIC’s board for nine of his 20 years with the group. He has pioneered several fundraising efforts, including a City of Hope-themed deck of playing cards, a book of poetry, City of Hope stuffed animals and a benefit concert in support of City of Hope research.
“Henry has built a legacy and has recruited dozens of volunteers to the NCFIC board,” said Olinto. “Henry’s commitment to City of Hope’s mission and the lives he helps to save keeps others invigorated year after year.”
Michon has helped to raise about $15 million for City of Hope, Olinto added.
Established in 1978, the NCFIC represents a unique commitment among the region’s food industry leaders to support City of Hope’s humanitarian efforts. The NCFIC has raised more than $30 million for City of Hope, making the industry alliance one of the premier fundraising groups in the region.
