31st Annual Crystal Ball Virtual Gala Raises $525,000 for Methodist Hospital’s
COVID-19 Fund
Even though the 31st annual Crystal Ball fundraising gala was not held
in its traditional format, the Methodist Hospital Foundation was able
to raise more than $525,000 in support of the COVID-19 fund at Methodist
Hospital. The Nov. 21 virtual event honored our hospital’s Frontline
Heroes with a live television broadcast on YouTube.
In the best interest of the health and safety of our guests, the evening’s
festivities began with a VIP Drive-Thru Reception for sponsors and ticketed
guests before the TV broadcast. Each attendee was greeted by Foundation
staff wearing PPE as they welcomed and thanked them for their support.
The atmosphere was festive with music and red-carpet jumbo screens featuring
recognition messages. Guests received a three-course dinner provided by
The Derby restaurant, a centerpiece, a bottle of wine and a few surprises.
Later that evening the Virtual Crystal Ball TV program went live on YouTube
with emcee Zack Krone and Methodist Hospital Foundation President Mike
Driebe. The program included pre-recorded videos featuring our hospital’s
Frontline Hero honorees who talked about their experiences during this
pandemic. The event also included guest appearances by 2020 World Series
Champion Los Angeles Dodger Manager Dave Roberts, Mallory Lewis and Lamb
Chop, and the cast of Station 19. It also featured a special musical performance
featuring Crystal Ball 2016 headliners The Fab Four. The event included
a live auction and a successful fund-a-need effort where guests could
make online donations or call in their gifts.
Crystal Ball concluded with a heartfelt message to our honorees and a special
video of appreciation to all donors who generously supported this fundraiser.
The Foundation is especially grateful to the two Title Super Hero Sponsors
Mike and Patty Nijjar and Paul Rusnak - Rusnak Auto Group. We also want
to recognize the four Grand “Epic” Sponsor Bel Air Investment
Advisors LLC; Dick and Sue Hale, Peter and Jill Boli & Paul and Patty
Wondries; Panda Restaurant Group and Mickey and Lee Segal & Alan and
Sandy Whitman.
To make a donation in support of Crystal Ball and the COVID-19 fund or
to watch the virtual event, visit
www.mhcrystalball.com or call Methodist Hospital Foundation at 626-898-8888.
Make a donation
The Cause
Proceeds will benefit the
COVID-19 Support Fund which will help Methodist Hospital, an independent non-profit, continue
its response to this crisis. As with many hospitals throughout our Nation,
Methodist Hospital continues to be financially impacted by this pandemic.
The needs are many and include higher costs for preparedness, treatment
and diagnostic expenses. We hope our community will feel inspired to donate
much needed funds to ensure Methodist Hospital continues to stay prepared
and offer great care for all our patients.
Honorees
At this year’s 31st Annual Crystal Ball event, we are excited to
honor the Frontline Heroes at Methodist Hospital. These individuals are
the selfless and dedicated physicians, nurses, technicians, and support
staff who show great courage in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic every
day. Their collective devotion, compassion and fearlessness is truly inspiring
and is the reason we will recognize these Frontline Heroes.
Virtual Event Recording Here
View the Tribute Book Here