The National Business Products Industry (NBPI) has raised another $15 million for City of Hope over the past year.
The 2023 ACCOmplishing Hope fundraising campaign led by ACCO Brands’ CEO Boris Elisman crescendoed last Thursday at Navy Pier in Chicago (IL) for the annual Spirit of Life Gala, where a cheque was presented to the leading cancer research and care organisation.
More than 400 executives from the business products industry came together from segments including office products, jan/san, furniture, technology and foodservice to celebrate Elisman and his team’s outstanding leadership throughout the year.
It was an evening of celebration, achievement and reflection, expertly emceed by Harry Dochelli, Essendant President/CEO, who served as the 2023 NBPI Dinner Chair and will be the 2024 NBPI Spirit of Life Honouree.
He was joined by former ACCO Brands Chairman and past Spirit of Life Honouree Bob Keller, who shed light on Elisman’s inspiring rise personally and professionally in the wake of his imminent retirement.
City of Hope was represented by speakers Leo Wang MD, PhD and Associate Professor of Paediatrics and Immuno-oncology, as well as Chief Philanthropy Officer Kristin Bertell, reminding all attendees why they were in the room – to help cure life-threatening diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Another emotional reminder was delivered by Brooks Smith, CEO of Innovative Office Solutions. He outlined his connection with City of Hope through the journey he and his late wife Jennifer had gone through during her battle first with breast cancer and then acute myeloid leukaemia, which she had courageously conquered before her passing.
Over the past 41 years, more than $250 million have been raised through our industry’s partnership with City of Hope. “The National Business Products Industry is embedded in City of Hope’s DNA,” acknowledged Matt Dodd, its Senior Executive Director of Corporate Philanthropy.
He added: “Through every major milestone at City of Hope, this industry has been by our side and we’re so honoured to have their continued support as we continue to provide life-saving care to more people across the country.”
As the 2023 campaign closes, Dochelli’s Fulfilling Hope fundraising efforts get underway, supported by the NBPI Council which is now chaired by another former, long-serving Essendant industry stalwart, RJ Schinner’s Steve Schultz.
The 2024 NBPI Dinner Chair and 2025 NBPI Spirit of Life Honouree, meanwhile, will be John Fellowes, CEO of Fellowes Brands.
Chicago (IL), USA
