Save the date for the 2025 Camp is Gold Gala!

Date: November 8, 2025

2024 Camp is Gold Gala Highlights

On Saturday, November 9th, over 490 guests gathered at The Ritz-Carlton in Chicago for the Camp is Gold Gala, celebrating Camp One Step, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free year-round camp experiences for kids with cancer and their families that foster joy, belonging, confidence, and lifelong friendships.

The evening began with a cocktail hour featuring live music, setting the stage for the main event in a ballroom adorned with the golden hues of sunset, reflecting this year’s “Golden Hour” theme. Gala Committee Chair Kerry Leiman, joined by her husband and Camp One Step Board Chair Jon Leiman, kicked off the program with a celebratory toast. Former camper and host Ryan Sartori followed with a heartfelt welcome, sharing his inspiring journey with Camp One Step.

Guests enjoyed a gourmet meal as the evening unfolded with impactful moments, including Marjorie Schwebel presenting the Richard Schwebel Family Award to the Pierce Family Foundation. Peggy Pierce graciously accepted the honor on behalf of the foundation.

A highlight of the night was hearing from 11-year-old camper Colin, who shared his experience with cancer and Camp One Step. This moving testimony was followed by an exciting live auction, an emotional video showcasing campers’ experiences at summer camp, and a paddle raise that energized the room.

The evening concluded with dancing and live music, but not before a historic announcement: for the first time ever, the Camp is Gold Gala raised over $1,000,000! This incredible milestone will help provide even more children with life-changing camp experiences. Thank you to everyone who helped make this evening unforgettable!

Couldn’t Join Us at The 2024 Camp is Gold Gala?

Click HERE to view our host and former camper Ryan Sartori kick off the night and welcome guests to the gala.

Click HERE to watch 11-year-old camper Colin share his experience with cancer and Camp One Step!