The Emerald Benefit: Advancing Celiac Research

🎉 The Emerald Benefit: Advancing Celiac Research 🎉

Hosted by Kimaya Soin in support of the Celiac Disease Foundation

Join us for an unforgettable evening of purpose, connection, and celebration at The Emerald Benefit, a community fundraiser dedicated to raising awareness and advancing research for celiac disease. 

The Emerald Benefit brings together members of the gluten-free community, medical professionals, researchers, local businesses, and supporters who are passionate about advancing progress in celiac disease research.

The inaugural Emerald Benefit in 2025 brought together nearly 70 guests and raised over $15,000 for celiac disease research, demonstrating the incredible impact a passionate community can make when it comes together. This year, we’re building on that momentum with an even bigger and more inspiring evening.

Whether you are personally affected by celiac disease, supporting a loved one, or simply passionate about advancing medical research, this event is an opportunity to connect, learn, and make a difference.

📅 Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026

📍 Location: East Side Club, 3735 Monona Dr, Madison, WI 53714

🕕 Time: 6:00 pm - 10 pm

🎟 Tickets: Limited availability – reserve your spot early!

What to Expect:

💚 A powerful night supporting the 3 million+ Americans living with celiac disease

🌟 Special guest: Dr. Daniel O’Connell, Pediatric gastroenterologist at UW Health Kids and associate professor of pediatrics at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health

🍽 Delicious, 100% celiac-safe food from trusted local restaurants — full lineup coming soon!

Last year’s tasting featured favorites like pizza from Ollie’s, guacamole, chips, and corn fritters from bartaco, empanadas from Mishqui Peruvian Bistro, hard cider sampling from Hidden Cave Cidery, gluten-free beer from ALT Brew, cotton candy from Lily’s Magical Treats, cookies from GoodAF Baking, and more.

🎁 Silent auction & raffle with amazing gluten-free prizes

Why It Matters: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, yet it remains underdiagnosed and underfunded. By supporting this event, you're helping to drive critical research, improve diagnostics, and support those affected.

Dress Code: Chic with a touch of green! Think semi-formal with emerald flair.

Let’s come together to create change, one bite and one bid at a time.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS-

Emerald Sponsor: Middleton Jewelers

Sapphire Sponsor: Esh Cardz

Ruby Sponsors: Ansay & Associates; Grams & Christoffersen

For donations or sponsorships, please contact Kimaya at [email protected]

Website: emeraldbenefit.com

Info: Mingle, sip, and savor a mouthwatering lineup of gluten-free delights! Enjoy a curated tasting experience featuring a variety of gluten-free dishes and desserts from local restaurants, bakeries, and beverage partners. From savory bites to sweet treats, guests will have the opportunity to sample some of the best gluten-free offerings our community has to offer – a delicious way to kick off the evening.

Info: Be inspired by powerful stories from members of the celiac community, highlighting the real-life challenges and resilience of those living with celiac disease. The evening will also feature expert insights during a special presentation and Q&A with Dr. Daniel O’Connell, pediatric gastroenterologist at UW Health, as he shares the latest advances in celiac disease research and treatment. Kimaya Soin, founder of The Emerald Benefit, will serve as emcee for the evening. Guests will then enjoy the excitement of a lively live auction hosted by Carol Miller of Baileys Honor Auction Service, followed by a meaningful Paddle Raise to support critical research efforts.

Info: Celebrate the closing moments of the evening with us as we announce raffle winners, conclude the silent auction, and share our heartfelt thanks for your generous support of celiac research.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Kimaya Soin