Logan Clements knows a thing or two about organizing large-scale events. She moved to China four years ago and currently runs her own sports management company, Logan Strategy Group. A desire to give back to the community led to her involvement with Chi Fan for Charity Shanghai, where she serves as this year's event director. Founded 10 years ago by Michael Crain and his wife as an alternative to the standard hotel ballroom charity gala, this annual affair takes place in both Shanghai and Beijing. Here, Clements tells us more about the highly anticipated November 17 event.
Can you tell us more about this year’s beneficiary?
This year we’ve aligned with Beijing and have both picked Educating Girls of Rural China as our beneficiary. Our goal is to sponsor 20 girls through a two-year vocational program for kids who aren't able to attend college because of the gaokao or financial situation. Just RMB6,000, or the cost of a table, is enough to sponsor a year of school for one of these girls. This means every table host can walk away from the event knowing exactly what the money was used for.
"Just RMB6,000, or the cost of a table, is enough to sponsor a year of school for one of these girls"
How can people get involved?
We’re always looking for extra volunteers. A core committee attends weekly planning meetings from the middle of summer until the event in November. Another group helps on the night because we need people to manage the after-party. We also look for photographers to donate their time to document the event, and sponsors for the raffle in additon to donations of food and drink for the afterparty.
Image courtesy Chi Fan for Charity
Can attendees personally connect with the beneficiaries?
Last year, we added charity alumni tables, and this year, several graduates from Educating Girls of Rural China who are now working professionals have bought at a table and will participate in the event, so you can talk to them about their experience. Seeing the charity alumni return and participate as donors is a really nice ‘coming full-circle’ moment.
Image courtesy Chi Fan for Charity
What percent of the funds raised goes to the charity?
All of the ticket sales plus raffle proceeds go to the charity, which is possible because the dining venues donate all the food, labor, time and seating capacity.
Finally, which restaurants do you want to go to this year?
I always want to go to M on the Bund as it’s one of our higher-priced tables for this year, and they never disappoint. I expect good things from Urban Thai because they are always so excited about their menu. Three years ago, Pelikan was one of the best dinners I’ve ever had. There was so much food, the drinks were amazing, and I loved having a great night out with my friends.
[Cover photo courtesy Chi Fan for Charity]
This year’s annual Chi Fan for Charity Shanghai event takes place on November 17. Click here to book your table, see event listing here.
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