Lauren Gross, Walk ALS Coordinator
February 10, 2024 | Oak Brook
Frank and Kathi Mungo have been in the fundraising and event planning business for a long time, having hosted over 30 Valentine’s Day Dances. Many would say they are pros at this point! When they started this fundraiser 31 years ago, their focus was on raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. However, over the years, they have seen many advancements in the treatment of these blood cancers. So, they decided to change their focus to ALS this year, and for a very important reason.
Frank lost his father to ALS almost 18 years ago and Kathi lost her brother in 2018 to the same devastating disease. Kathi Mungo stated, “We have been struck by all of the struggles associated to the diagnosis and disease itself. Starting with the fact that they don’t have a way of diagnosing the disease.”
On a cold night in February, family and friends gathered at the Drake Hotel for a night of dancing, entertainment, good food, and a silent auction to end the evening. One attendee revealed this year will be his 31st year attending the Valentine’s Day Dance. When asked what their secret to success was, Kathi expressed, “My husband Frank is our secret weapon. He’s the one that insists we continue regardless of the economy, COVID, or the
rigors of our life. This is his passion project.”
The numbers are in… the 31st Valentine’s Day Dance raised over $56,000 to continue the fight against ALS. If you are interested in starting a fundraiser or are in the beginning stages, Kathi suggests “Find something meaningful to base your event on. My husband decided a long time ago to incorporate Valentine’s Day into our event. It’s the holiday centered around love. Love was and is the catalyst for us getting involved.”
Starting Your Own Project
Do you want to support ALS United Greater Chicago’s mission by utilizing your talents, hobbies, or interests? If yes, then you can organize a DIY Fundraiser, also known as Do-It-Yourself Fundraisers.
Over the years, our DIY fundraisers, which act independently of ALS United Greater Chicago, have created some incredible events, ranging from basketball games to movie nights.
ALS United Greater Chicago is here to provide assistance, while you have the freedom to host the event wherever you like, on your schedule, interests, and based on your budget. Our DIY Fundraisers are passionate about raising awareness and finding a cure for ALS. They inspire us every day, and we are so appreciative of our DIY event hosts’ efforts.
For more information about starting a DIY Fundraiser, reach out to Lauren Gross at lauren@alsunitedchicago.org.