The Illinois Tiffany Circle, a powerful network of women leaders committed to the Red Cross mission, made a significant impact in the last several months through their generous support and innovative fundraising events for the non-profit. Their commitment has been evident in a few recent key events, culminating in their lead sponsorship of the 11th Annual ABC7 Great Chicago Blood Drive, the largest Red Cross blood drive in the country.
This year’s event set a record, collecting 2,804 units of lifesaving blood. Thousands of community members across Chicagoland rolled up a sleeve at one of six locations during the two-day drive, a signature event hosted by ABC7 Chicago, featuring meteorologist and Tiffany Circle member Cheryl Scott. Appearances by special guests like Southpaw from the Chicago White Sox added excitement and energy to the event.
Beyond being the lead sponsor, Illinois Tiffany Circle members came together to support the Great Chicago Blood Drive through a series of impactful events both before and after the drive.
On September 19th, Tiffany Circle members hosted an awareness and fundraising event at Veronica Beard in downtown Chicago. With 30 guests in attendance, including Tiffany Circle members and prospects, the event raised funds toward the sponsorship of the Great Chicago Blood Drive. Illinois Tiffany Circle members Jennifer Gallagher, Val Johnston, Daniella Levitt, and Judy McCormack served on the host committee, ensuring the evening was a success.
On both days of the blood drive, Tiffany Circle members were actively involved in various capacities. Kimberly A. Falk, Peggy Hardek, Susan B. Noyes, the Make It Better Foundation, Jill Schaaf, and Christine Tierney issued a $100,000 match challenge to inspire others to contribute, resulting in a remarkable $208,200 raised for biomedical services. Members also volunteered at four different sites, donated blood, and spread the word throughout their networks, showcasing the power of community and the impact of their collective efforts.
The Great Chicago Blood Drive’s success was made possible by the generous support of several sponsors, including the Tiffany Circle, Make It Better Foundation, Adtalem Global Education, State Farm, United Airlines, Walgreens, and First Secure Bank & Trust.
To celebrate the success of the blood drive, Illinois Tiffany Circle members Kimberly A. Falk and Christine Quinn hosted a post-drive celebration. This gathering brought together neighbors and friends interested in learning about the Red Cross and the achievements of the Great Chicago Blood Drive. Emily Alanis from the Red Cross Biomedical Services team spoke about the drive’s impact, innovations with the Red Cross Blood Donor app, the new fixed blood donation site set to open in 2026, and how to get involved in future blood drives.
Illinois Region Tiffany Circle Steering Committee Co-Chair Linda Nolan reflected on the Illinois Tiffany Circle’s growth and impact, saying, “When I first joined, we had around 50 members. Now, we’ve doubled in size. The impact has grown tremendously as well, and I think the connection to the mission has strengthened tremendously.”
She continued, “I’m inspired by the Red Cross and the Tiffany Circle in meeting the moment, rising to the occasion, expanding upon the mission, and looking for new and different ways to drive impact or deepen impact.”
How to Help
The Illinois Tiffany Circle continues to play a vital role in supporting the Red Cross through their dedication and innovative efforts. Those inspired by the Red Cross mission and who would like to join this remarkable network of women leaders, learn more about how to become a Tiffany Circle member here. Additionally, you can make a significant impact by donating directly to the Red Cross and by donating blood, a simple act that can save lives and support those in need.
