7 Philadelphia Charity Events in May


Promo photo for Renegade Company’s Star Wars-themed fundraiser. Details below.

Apparently, there’s something about spring that makes the city feel extra philanthropic. Throughout the month of May Philly will see all kinds of charity events — from those supporting the local arts and disease research to poverty. Because soirees of this kind require a little planning ahead, Ticket has rounded up seven of the season’s not-to-be-missed charity events that’ll fit any giving budget.

Maria Papadakis is among the local celebs scheduled to attend Blingo to Cure Duchenne.

Maria Papadakis is among the local celebs scheduled to attend Blingo to Cure Duchenne.

Spring at the Mansion: Support Philadelphia Art Alliance‘s historic home, the stately Wetherill Mansion, at its second-annual Spring at the Mansion event. The extravagant gala will feature cuisine from cuisine from Chef Pierre Calmels of Le Chéri, and specialty cocktails. A portion of the proceeds will go to the preservation of Wetherill MansionFriday, May 2nd, 6 p.m., Philadelphia Art Alliance, 251 South 18th Street.

Blingo to Cure Duchenne:  In its first year, Cure Duchenne’s event gathers Philly celebs for an evening of Bingo and bling to cure the muscle-wasting disease that affects 1 in 3,500 boys. The evening promises glamorous guests and attire, with events including Bingo, auctions, an open bar, prizes, and a fun photo booth, all to support Duchenne research. Saturday, May 3rd, Hyatt Regency, 201 Columbus Boulevard.

Star Wars Episode VII: The Renegade Company Throws a Fundraiser: “To evade the Empire’s threats of dreaded low audience numbers, a group of theatre artists, led by Michael Durkin and Griffin Stanton-Ameisen, have established” a Star Wars-themed fundraiser to benefit Philly’s innovative Renegade Theater Company. The evening includes complimentary beverages, treats from Little Baby’s Ice Cream. There will also be appearances by Revolution Shakespeare, light saber wunderkinds Dragon Jedi, and a musical performance courtesy of Jawbone Junction. Sunday, May 4th, 6 p.m., $10, Headlong Dance Studios, 1170 S. Broad Street.

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Bon Jovi will make an appearance at Night of Broadway Stars for Covenant House.

Night of Broadway Stars for Covenant House:  Covenant House hosts its annual Night of Broadway Stars, featuring a revue of Broadway numbers, a cocktail and dessert reception, and a special appearance from Bon Jovi. The festivities support the work of Covenant House, which serves Philadelphia’s homeless, runaway, and trafficked youth. Wednesday, May 7th, 5:30 p.m., Pennsylvania Convention Center, 12th and Arch streets.

Daisy Day Luncheon: The volunteer-organized Daisy Day Luncheon returns this spring, continuing its 58-year run of raising funds for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Sponsor Saks Fifth Avenue will put on a high-end fashion show with looks from guest-of-honor Zac Posen. Proceeds will benefit the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment at CHOP. Thursday, May 8th, Hyatt at the Bellevue, 200 South Broad Street.

Taste of the World: Bollywood Bash 2014: The Jimmy Rollins Family Foundation‘s fourth annual Taste of the World takes on Bollywood this year, with dress and entertainment taking a cue from India’s entertainment scene. Renowned chefs will provide tastes from around the world for this gala event. Proceeds benefit Philly’s Jimmy Rollins’ Foundation, which raises money for young adults living with arthritis. Wednesday, May 14th, Union League of Philadelphia, 140 South Broad Street.

Wall Ball 2014: Now in its 30th year, Mural Arts’ Wall Ball supports Philadelphia’s public art programming, as well as those impacted by the justice system and those in treatment for behavioral health challenges. This year’s event features honored guests M. Night Shyamalan and Shepard Fairey. Thursday, May 29th, Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden Street.