Ruby Fundraiser Tops $100,000

Proceeds to Benefit Parkinson's Research

In the beginning, the goal of the recent Paul Ruby Foundation golf tournament and Concert for a Cure was to raise $50,000 for Parkinson’s research.  In the end, the four-events-in one-day fundraiser amassed twice that in monetary donations alone.

“For a first-time event to raise $50,000 is phenomenal.  But $100,000?  That was beyond our wildest dreams,” said foundation namesake Paul Ruby, general manager of the Herrington Inn & Spa in Geneva.  A little over one year ago, Ruby, now 44, was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s, the same form of the disease that has afflicted actor Michael J. Fox.

In an effort to “fight back” against the disease, Ruby decided to raise money for Parkinson’s research and subsequently enlisted a few of his friends to help      -- 120 volunteers, 144 golfers, 55 caddies, 4 bands and 500+ concert goers.

On August 17th they all came together at Mill Creek Golf Course in Geneva for a day of fundraising via a golf tournament, live auction, silent auction, dinner and outdoor concert headlined by Chicago rock legends the Ides of March.

“Thanks to the hard work and generosity of so many people, we are now able to make a meaningful donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.  Even after we back out expenses and seed money for next year, we’ll still be able to donate considerably more than we expected to raise in total,” Ruby said.

“There are no words to express my gratitude and, frankly, astonishment.  It was a day, an effort I will never forget.  I just hope everyone involved feels the same pride in our accomplishment. 

“Of all the neurological disorders, Parkinson’s is closest to being cured.  Hopefully, our contribution will help achieve that goal to the benefit of all current and future Parkinson’s patients.”