On March 25, 2010, the Cancer Research Institute’s Young Philanthropists Council hosted a cocktail soirée at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City, bringing awareness to the Institute’s groundbreaking efforts to change the face of cancer treatment.

With music by special guest DJ Josh Madden and the chance to win a Saks shopping spree and style session with celebrity stylist Lauren Rae Levy, the evening also featured ladies modeling some of the hottest spring looks. The highly successful event included a silent auction, open bar, and passed hors d’oeuvres with a 10 percent discount on all items purchased throughout the store.

Earlier in the evening, a private VIP event took place during which guests were treated to a Champagne cocktail reception, professional make-up consultations, and the opportunity to shop with a Saks Fifth Avenue personal shopper. In addition, VIP guests were entered to win a Saks Fifth Avenue shopping spree with Lauren Rae Levy, as well as a vacation package that included a luxury weekend stay at a first-class New York City hotel, complete with car service, massage, and restaurant certificate.

The Cancer Institute Council member Steven Beltrani and Council Chair Alexis Feldman introduced Executive Director Dr. Jill O’Donnell-Tormey, who spoke about the Institute’s exciting advancements towards discovering and developing new immune-based approaches to the treatment, control, and prevention of cancer.

Attendees included New York designer Timo Weiland; Founder and Publisher of CharityHappenings.org Justin Baer; 47 Ventures Founder Daniel Cappello; celebrity magician Matt Wayne; singer Reagan Richards; Marlon Steven Beltrani; Cancer Institute Council Member Joey Lico, and others. Silent auction items included Ippolita earrings, a two-night stay at the Mercer Hotel, a Marc Jacobs handbag, dinner at Locanda Verde with a two-night stay at the Greenwich Hotel; a Tiki Barber signed jersey, as well as a number of other high-end fashion and cosmetic items. All proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction benefited the Cancer Research Institute.

The Cancer Research Institute Young Philanthropists are a network of professionals ages 21 to 40 committed to charitable giving and volunteerism for the purpose of supporting research in cancer immunology. This promising field of medical research aims to harness the disease-fighting power of the immune system to treat, control and prevent cancer. For more information, please visit www.cancerresearch.org.