Rev Indy celebrated its 8th anniversary in late July this year, even though the event is usually in early May to kick off the greatest month in racing. Local musicians, artists, influencers, chefs, media, and the like enjoy a philanthropic evening walking on the red carpet, tasting dishes from well-known local restaurants, dancing the night away, and even getting to experience a lap around the track. Funds raised at the event benefit IU Health trauma and critical care programs.
Jody DeFord, Indianapolis lawyer and Maven known well around Indianapolis for her unique style, was excited to be back in-person at an event like Rev.
“My husband and I always have a conflict in May, so we were thrilled the event was in July this year to be able to attend,” said DeFord, who was head-to-toe in Indy 500-inspired attire designed by a local artist.
As a sort of microcosm for the city of Indianapolis, Rev was a hub of excellent food, sports, visual art, and live entertainment. GANGGANG, founded by Indy Maven Editorial Board Member Malina Simone and her husband, hosted a runway with an interactive gallery, allowing attendees to watch as local artists created on canvas.
Among the food and beverage vendors at the event was Indy Maven partner Simplicity Juice. Simplicity intern Shannon Orgozaly, who also served at Indy Maven’s June Monthly Member Meetup with Sweat & Sip, said she was delighted with the hustle and bustle of this summer’s events schedule, both as a Simplicity team member and personally. Orgozaly is looking forward to more outdoor activities this year, including the Quinn XCII concert at White River State Park in September.
Of course, beyond the adrenaline of the track, entertainment, art, and glamorous red carpet is the spirit of the entire event: philanthropy. Indy Car drivers and former IU Health trauma patients spoke to the importance of the IU Health trauma and critical care units.
IU Health Foundation President and Chief Philanthropy Officer Crystal Miller said the IU Methodist Emergency Room is the busiest ER in the country on race day. The impact that IU Health has on the citizens of our city and state is undeniable, and Rev Indy gives back to the foundation that seeks to protect and care for our Hoosier friends and neighbors.
Lauren Kanaan, wife of 2013 Indy 500 winner Tony Kanaan, expressed immense gratitude for the IU Health Foundation. In addition to the comfort the proximity of such a state-of-the-art trauma center brings her having a husband in a high-risk career, the Kanaan family are advocates of Riley Hospital for Children, the only dedicated children’s hospital in the IU Health Network.
“Tony and I have a kiddo who is a Riley kid, and we have loved everything about that place ever since we’ve had a reason to work with them,” Kanaan said. “We do our best to raise a lot of awareness for Riley.”
The evening brought together local leaders across industries for an important cause, and Rev organizers don’t plan to lose momentum. The organization already announced on its Facebook page that tickets for the May 2022 event will go on sale Dec. 1.
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