Concern Foundation Rolls the Dice to Conquer Cancer at 50th Annual Block Party Raising Over $2.5 Million Dollars in Support of Cancer Research
The GAMES were officially ON as the Concern Foundation hosted its milestone 50th Annual Block Party on the historic backlot of Paramount Studios Hollywood, raising over $2.5 million for groundbreaking cancer research. With more than 4,000 guests in attendance, the night proved to be a spirited celebration of community, courage, and commitment to curing cancer.
The golden anniversary celebration, GAME ON! Together Let’s Beat Cancer, paid tribute to longtime sponsors, board members, and community philanthropists Lisi and Steve Teller for their outstanding contributions to the community, and honored Special Lifetime Achievement Honoree Alexandra M. Levine, MD, MACP, Professor of Hematology and Chief Medical Officer Emerita at City of Hope, all while transforming the Paramount Backlot streets into a vibrant game night experience. The event featured a life-size Candyland stage, retro bowling, and interactive games like Jenga and Chutes & Ladders, symbolizing the challenges and victories in the journey toward a cancer-free future.
Guests indulged in a Trivial Pursuit of flavor, with tastings from over 90 acclaimed restaurants, wineries, breweries, and spirit brands, including crowd favorites like Alexander’s Steakhouse, BOX Chicken, City Club Los Angeles, Dulan’s on Crenshaw Soul Food, Emporium Thai, Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill & Jazz, Lawry’s The Prime Rib, Maple Block Meat Co., Nobu Malibu, Pink’s Hot Dogs, Poppy + Rose, Settecento DTLA, The Grill on the Alley, Uchi West Hollywood, Wife and the Somm, and Yamashiro Hollywood.
Sweet treats came courtesy of Bertha Mae’s Brownie Co., Chocolate and the Chip, CVT Soft Serve, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, My/Mochi Ice Cream, and many others. Premium coffee and tea were poured by Caffe Luxxe, Pasquini Espresso Co., Weaver’s Coffee & Tea, and more.
The evening’s spirited beverage experience included standout sips from BUZZBAR®, GIN&JUICE by Dre and Snoop, Empress 1908 Gin, Milagro Tequila, Leon y Sol Tequila, and featured wineries such as Ballers Champagne and Bido Wines. Common Space Brewery, Duvel, and La Chouffe kept beer enthusiasts refreshed, while Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water, Last Shot, Robeks Juice, SANPELLEGRINO® CIAO!, S.Pellegrino Sparkling Mineral Water, vitaminwater, and other premium non-alcoholic brands ensured everyone stayed hydrated.
Entertainment lit up the backlot with electrifying performances by the Tom Nolan Band, D’ City Sound & Events on the Main Stage, and the Jason Goldstein Sextet featuring Lilli Passero on the Vibrato Grill Jazz Stage, creating a soundtrack of energy and joy.
The evening also featured:
- Brian Kramer Photography Digital Photo Studio
- Casino-style Gaming with prizes by Pechanga Resort Casino
- Donation Station, sponsored by Anxiety Therapy L.A., who matched the first $10,000 in donations
- Spa services courtesy of Fairmont Spa Century Plaza
- Beauty Bus Foundation Glam Makeovers
- Specialty lounges by Mount Sinai Memorial Parks & Mortuaries
- Interactive photo booth by SnapItStudio.com
A major highlight was the Online Silent & Live Auction, offering one-of-a-kind experiences and luxury packages. The Live Auction was led by the dynamic Kimlai Yingling, who brought her signature energy to inspire giving with heart.
Concern Foundation proudly partnered with Modern Luxury Angeleno, which celebrated its 25th Anniversary on Angeleno Avenue, adding another layer of giving, glamor, and generosity to the evening.
The 50th Annual Block Party was not just an event; it was a powerful movement. Every roll of the dice, every sip, every donation helped move the mission forward: to fund innovative, lifesaving cancer research. The Concern Foundation continues to prove that when we come together, the odds shift in favor of a cure.
For more information on the Concern Foundation, to donate or sponsor, please visit www.ConcernFoundation.org.