American Cancer Society’s Game Changer Gala Raises Funds to Fight Cancer

By Elaine Harris

Writer Lewis Carroll wrote, “One of the deep secrets of life is that all that is worth doing is what we do for others.” That spirit of helping is at the heart of many community organizations in Nevada.

Recently, I witnessed the incredible generosity of many civic and business leaders at the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Game Changer Gala. This year’s theme,  “Hatters Mad Enough to Fight Cancer,” reflected the character of the Mad Hatter from Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” where participants were encouraged to wear their most elegant and creative hats.

Proceeds from the extravagant event and live auction went to aid ACS’s cancer research, patient support services, and advocacy efforts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, making it an illness that touches everyone’s life at some point—either personally or through someone they know. That reality has inspired influential leaders and everyday individuals to give, rally, and raise awareness in this ongoing battle.

Community action is at the heart of ACS’s work in Nevada. Events such as the annual gala fundraiser bring the community together to honor cancer survivors, remember those who lost their battle with the disease, and raise much-needed awareness and funds for ACS’s lifesaving research and outreach. This year’s Game Changer Gala, along with ACS’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Relay for Life, generates crucial resources and fosters a sense of unity and hope among participants.

On March 1, 2025, generosity took center stage as donors opened their hearts and wallets at one of the year’s most significant charity events. The Keep Memory Alive Center transformed into a scene from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland as the Game Changer Gala, presented by Findlay Automotive Group, became a night where courage and compassion lit the way for those seeking hope in the fight against cancer. Dressed in their finest attire and most extravagant hats, supporters embraced the spirit of the Mad Hatter in the ongoing battle to defeat cancer.

Coordinated by ACS’s Nevada chapter, one of the nation’s most respected organizations devoted to eradicating cancer, the annual gala fundraiser brought together cancer survivors, generous sponsors, donors, and community leaders. It underscored ACS’s persistent efforts in its mission as an ongoing support system, advocate, and educational resource for Nevada.

As guests arrived, sparkling wine, soaring violin music, and passed canapés set the mood for a night of inspiration, fine dining, and recognition of those touched directly or indirectly by a cancer diagnosis. A carefully curated meal was served, beginning with a fresh spring harvest salad featuring tender mesclun greens, sugar snap peas, and strawberries dressed in a light white balsamic basil vinaigrette. The main entrée was red wine-braised short ribs with Cacio e Pepe mashed potatoes and roasted carrots. Dessert, fitting for a tea party, included a tiered tray of assorted French macarons, mini éclairs, and chocolate praline tarts.

The evening continued as the mission speaker, Game Changer Gala honoree Kimberly Reed, shared her journey through cancer and the victorious life she now leads, thanks to early detection.

“When I was first diagnosed, they said five to seven years, but I said, really? Now it’s been 13.”

Tyler Corder, CFO and COO of Findlay Automotive Group, expressed gratitude for ACS’s invaluable resources in assisting cancer patients like himself in their fight against the disease.

“Our goal tonight is to honor local community champions while raising funds to support people with cancer and their families. No one should have to face cancer alone.”

Game Changer Gala honorees were recognized for their contributions, including Rossi Ralenkotter, former Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority CEO, and Dr. Renee Coffman, president of Roseman University of Health Sciences, among other distinguished recipients.

Auctioneer Christian Kolberg energized the crowd with sought-after auction items, including tickets to the French Open, a Golden Knights package, and a luxury getaway to Sedona and Aspen. Paddles were raised, and lively bidding ensued, making for a vibrant and memorable evening supporting ACS’s mission.

The future looks promising as the organization expands its cancer research and patient support initiatives. With each donation, ACS remains hopeful about progress toward a cure.