An inspiring new organization out of Chicago, The Funk Foundation, is using music as a catalyst to raise awareness and funding for a variety of important causes. Serving as both a consultant and a production company for music-based charity events, The Funk Foundation will incorporate their know-how of the music industry with the desire to bring about change to put on their own events and guide other organizations in doing the same.
“There are two things that never fail to bring me joy: funk music and helping others,” says founder Eric Onesto. “Why not merge the two?”
This Mardi Gras, on Fat Tuesday, February 28th, the foundation will host their inaugural event. Keeping with the funk mantra, the special evening will bring a 70s-themed roller disco to Fleetwood Roller Rink, just 10 miles from downtown Chicago. All proceeds will be donated directly to the National Alliance on Mental Illness – Illinois. Tickets can be purchased here. Buses will be provided to and from the Emporium Arcade, where Chicago-based funk favorites The Heard will perform late night.
“I believe there is a moral bankruptcy in our society when it comes to the acceptance and treatment of mental illness throughout every corner of our country,” explains Onesto. “NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. I can’t think of a more admirable cause to contribute to for our first event.”
While they will continue to spearhead their own independent events for various charitable institutions, the foundation’s next endeavor will be to work with specific organizations to support their needs and desires in the realm of fundraising and event production.
The Funk Foundation originated as the name for Onesto’s Polar Plunge team in 2016. For two consecutive years, the team plunged into the icy waters of Lake Michigan to raise money for The Special Olympics of Illinois, this year placing first in the costume contest and raising $4,537 for charity.
This Tuesday, Onesto invites you to don your fanciest disco attire and skate away the evening with some bangin’ tunes while raising money to support NAMI’s programs. Mike Bangles, aka Shazam Bangles, will be providing the music to get you moving. Buses will depart from Emporium Arcade, located at 1366 N Milwaukee Ave., at 7:00 PM and return at 10:30 PM, followed by a performance from The Heard.
Tickets can be purchased here. Check out the event page for more info.