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Events

2026 Fundraising Events

More than 66,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year. With a survival rate of just 13%, finding a cure is critical.

At Sky Foundation, we are committed to taking on this challenge. Our mission is to raise awareness and fund innovative research for the early detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer. We help life-saving research get off the ground, knowing that any one of the research projects we support could be the one that leads to the breakthrough that ends pancreatic cancer for good.

Through fundraising events, social media and unique public awareness opportunities we seek to educate and raise funding for pancreatic cancer research. We also stress the importance of genetic counseling, when to seek medical attention and potential risk factors and symptoms related to this disease. We have an ever-growing community with patients, survivors, family members, and loved ones that come together to support one another and our cause.

The researchers are the backbone of helping us find a cure to pancreatic cancer.

Sky awards seed grants for pancreatic cancer medical research, which provide initial funding to researchers for exploratory studies. These grants support innovative ideas, gather preliminary data, and encourage scientists to pursue their research further. Such funding plays a crucial role in kickstarting early-stage investigations and supports new approaches that will potentially lead to more significant research opportunities that may one day be the breakthrough to cure pancreatic cancer.

Join us in making a difference and showcasing your dedication to supporting Sky Foundation in this vital cause. Whether you’re a supporter, participant, or sponsor, your involvement speaks volumes to your clients, customers, and constituents. Sky Foundation provides numerous avenues for you to connect with our mission and display solidarity with the pancreatic cancer community. We invite you to explore the diverse opportunities available and consider partnering with us for any or all of our upcoming events. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and bring hope to those affected by pancreatic cancer.

At Sky Foundation, Inc., we believe in the power of community to drive awareness, fund research, and support those impacted by pancreatic cancer. Our fundraising events bring people together to make a difference—while having a great time!

Mark your calendars and join us for an exciting year of events in 2026.

CLICK HERE if your interested in partnering with us for any of our annual events

 

 

The Sky Movement

Sunday, May 17, 2026

The Sky Movement is a powerful national initiative that brings individuals, families, and businesses together to raise awareness and critical funding for pancreatic cancer research. Whether honoring a loved one, supporting a colleague, or rallying a corporate team, participants unite around one shared purpose: advancing early detection and improving outcomes.

From walking and running to biking, yoga, pickleball, and more, the Movement is designed to be accessible anywhere — making it easy for teams and individuals across the country to participate in a way that feels meaningful to them.

In 2026, we are introducing an in-person kickoff event to celebrate together, build community, and recognize the collective impact of our supporters. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels innovative research, educational outreach, and life-saving programs that give patients more options and more hope.

Whether you form a team, sponsor a group, or simply give in support, the Sky Movement turns action into progress.

REGISTER FOR THE SKY MOVEMENT HERE

 

Doctail Mixer 

Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | Pine Lake Country Club

At the Doc-Tail Mixer, doctors and medical professionals trade white coats for bar aprons, volunteering as “Doctenders” and crafting signature cocktails and mocktails in support of pancreatic cancer research. Guests sample each creation, vote for their favorites, and enjoy an energetic evening of connection and purpose.

Now in its third year, this signature event has rapidly grown — doubling revenue and expanding community engagement each year. More than a social gathering, the Doc-Tail Mixer fosters meaningful conversations between medical professionals, community leaders, corporate partners, and supporters, all united around advancing research and awareness.

Sponsors gain valuable brand exposure among an engaged and philanthropic audience, while guests experience a unique blend of entertainment, networking, and impact. Every ticket purchased and every vote cast directly supports innovative pancreatic cancer research and patient education initiatives.

CLICK HERE if you are interested in becoming a featured DOCTENDER at our Doctail Mixer!

 

The Sky Golf Classic: Driving Toward A Cure

Monday, August 31 | Oakhurst Country Club

The Sky Golf Classic brings together business leaders, community partners, and passionate supporters for a day of friendly competition with a powerful purpose. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Oakhurst Country Club, this tournament offers teams the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and compete — all while driving progress toward earlier detection and better treatment options.

Designed for corporate teams, sponsors, and individuals alike, the event fosters camaraderie and visibility while aligning participants with a meaningful cause. Sponsorship opportunities provide brand recognition throughout the day, from course signage to on-site activations and digital promotion.

Every swing supports Sky Foundation’s mission to fund innovative pancreatic cancer research and expand awareness efforts across Michigan and beyond.

 

Night Sky Gala

October 8, 2026 | Saint John’s Resort 

The Night Sky Gala is Sky Foundation’s largest and most impactful fundraiser of the year — an unforgettable evening of elegance, inspiration, and meaningful impact. This premier event gathers corporate partners, community leaders, researchers, advocates, and supporters who are committed to advancing pancreatic cancer research and awareness.

Held at the stunning Saint John’s Resort, the evening features a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, an exciting auction, and powerful stories from those personally impacted by the disease. It is a night that celebrates resilience, innovation, and the collective strength of a community determined to create change.

We proudly honor our “Stars in the Sky” — researchers, advocates, and volunteers whose dedication is accelerating breakthroughs in early detection and treatment. Sponsorship of the Gala offers premier brand visibility and alignment with one of Michigan’s leading pancreatic cancer organizations.

More than a gala, it is a gathering of changemakers — united to fund research, raise awareness, and bring hope to families facing pancreatic cancer.

 

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Who’s Your Bartender? | April 2018

Join Lauren Eaton & Annie Dalton at this year’s “Who’s Your Bartender?” event HERE

Check out the invitation on Facebook HERE.

 

Meet Sky’s Bartenders:

Lauren Eaton is involved in Sky Foundation in every aspect.  She is a treasured member on our Governing Board, an active participant on the Fundraising Committee, and is the Chair of our Young Professional Group.  Lauren is a loving wife and mother of two.  While she is not living and breathing Sky Foundation you can find her on the tennis court or out at the bar with some girlfriends.  This is her third year behind the bar at Who’s Your Bartender and is ready to serve YOU up a mean cocktail!

 

Annie Dalton has been working with founder, Sheila Sky Kasselman at Sky Foundation since September 2016.  She is involved with Sky’s event coordination, website design, campaign management and is the director of marketing. Outside of Sky Annie enjoys doing yoga, going on hikes and hanging with her buds.  This is her first year being a bartender and she can’t wait to concoct your favorite drink!

 

Order paper tickets by calling Annie at the Sky Foundation office, 248-385-5143.  Online tickets go on sale shortly. Cheers!

 

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