Gillian Ragan Foundation Hosts Inaugural Fundraiser to Support Grieving Families

The Gillian Ragan Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families after the death of a child, will host its inaugural Community Fundraiser on Saturday, May 17, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Pinnacle Brewing Company in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event aims to raise funds for mental health therapy, grief counseling, and emotional healing resources for families navigating child loss.

The open-house style gathering is free and open to the public, featuring a silent auction, music bingo, raffles, craft beer, and food. All proceeds will directly support the foundation’s Healing Assistance Program, which provides financial aid for therapy and counseling services.

Jenifer Mattioli, founder of the foundation and mother of Gillian Grace Ragan—who passed away at age 14—emphasized the importance of community support. ‘When you lose a child, your whole world changes in an instant,’ Mattioli said. ‘This fundraiser is about bringing our community together to ensure that no family has to face that darkness alone.’

A highlight of the event is a hybrid silent auction that opens online before the event and continues at the venue. Attendees can scan QR codes to bid from their phones, while remote participants can bid through the foundation’s website at www.gillianraganfoundation.org. The auction includes items such as original artwork, sports memorabilia, dining experiences, and Diamondbacks Advantage baseball tickets, with features like real-time bidding and Buy It Now options.

Pinnacle Brewing Company, an award-winning family-owned brewery, will host the event. Named 2025 Brewery of the Year at the Arizona Craft Beer Awards and Best Brewery in the Valley by Phoenix Magazine, the venue offers a spacious taproom and dog-friendly patio.

The foundation was established by Mattioli in memory of her daughter, Gillian ‘Gigi’ Ragan, who was born with congenital orthopedic challenges and passed away at 14. Known for her compassion and joy, Gigi’s legacy drives the foundation’s mission to remove financial barriers to grief support. The foundation also offers resources such as trauma-informed care, EMDR, and support groups.

Community members can participate by attending the event, bidding online, donating directly through the website, or volunteering. Businesses interested in donating auction items or sponsoring can contact the foundation for more information.

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