“The pulse of any city can be measured by its philanthropic commitment to empowering the less fortunate.”  — Lawrence Funderburke

Despite falling short of our goal of raising $250,000, the 2023 LFYO Fundraising Luncheon was a tremendous success. We secured just over $150,000 in financial support. A beautiful, sunny afternoon placed attendees in the perfect mood for great food. The atmosphere and ambiance at Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, the downtown location, were spectacular. Kudos to the general manager, Ryan Reidel, and his staff for their amazing service. The capacity crowd included celebrity athletes (past and present), business luminaries, and most notably, Central Ohioans who care deeply about our non-profit organization’s mission to change lives and transform legacies.

The first hour consisted of networking, delectable hors d’oeuvres, and generous bidding on 10 exclusive, auction-item packages (with the Chef’s Dinner for 8 generating the highest bid). As you can see, excitement was buzzing in the air before the start of the program! In the second hour, a delicious three-course meal was served, including a caesar salad, trio lunch platter (3 ounce petite cut filet, 4 ounces of salmon, 3 ounces of lemon caper chicken, roasted garlic whipped potatoes, and sautéed asparagus), and a dessert duo (mini cheesecake and a mini flourless chocolate torte). Past LFYO participants reflected on their heartwarming experiences, followed by thought-provoking insights from Chris Scott (Toy Barn General Manager), Ted Murdaugh (GoodLife Foundation Executive Director), Clark Kellogg (CBS Basketball Analyst), and Gene Smith (OSU Athletic Director). In short, each speaker reiterated a common theme: difference-makers make the difference in their own unique way. At their companies. With their colleagues. In their communities.