Meeting Professionals International (MPI) Foundation raised more than $190,000 during IMEX America in Las Vegas, from Oct. 14-16, setting a new record for the most funds raised through one event.
The money was generated through ticket sales for Rendezvous, the IMEX America Night, and directly benefits the MPI Foundation Education Endowment, which provides chapter grants and scholarships to MPI members around the world.
Rendezvous, the IMEX America Night is the foundation’s largest annual networking fundraiser. This year there were more than 1,600 people in attendance, an increase of 39 percent compared to last year. The foundation hosted the event at Drai’s Beach Club and Nightclub on the rooftop of The Cromwell.
“The MPI Foundation appreciates the support of our sponsors and all the people who joined us at Rendezvous during IMEX America 2014. Their contributions will help grow the knowledge base of the meeting and event industry by nurturing people within the MPI community who will be instrumental in moving our industry forward,” said Gus Vonderheide, chairman, MPI Foundation.
Earlier this year, MPI Foundation raised more than $170,000 during the 2014 World Education Congress (WEC), setting a new record for the most money raised at an MPI conference. During WEC 2014 in August, the foundation held three fundraisers, including The Big Deal, an official World Series of Poker satellite tournament; the Not-So-Silent Auction; and Rendezvous.
MPI Foundation currently offers MPI membership 21 different types of scholarship opportunities as well as three types of grants for MPI chapters. Detailed information, applications and success stories can be found on the foundation’s website at www.mpiweb.org/foundation.
Rendezvous, the IMEX America Night was made possible this year thanks to generous contributions from the host sponsor, Caesars Entertainment as well as the following presenting sponsors: IMEX America, Universal Orlando, Freeman, and Synchronicities.
