In 2004, after a close experience with cancer, Chris Okapal decided to gather a small group of family and friends to raise $5,000 in support of the American Cancer Society. The name of their team was "Circle of Friends". In three months of fundraising, with lots of determination and support, this goal was surpassed and "Circle of Friends" was able to present a check for over $13,000.

Inspired by the heartfelt stories of cancer recalled by their sponsors, the group was motivated to return. As 2005 approached, close friend Mike Judy shared that he too had been recently affected by cancer. Both striving to make a difference, Chris and Mike joined forces for the fundraising year ahead. Through the process of planning a spring event, they realized that they would be able to accomplish much more for the cancer community if they founded their own not-for-profit organization. They were excited by the opportunities ahead and so they brought aboard the assistance of Thérèse Cilella, MaryAnne Okapal and Steve Judy. The team met and with their first goal of $35,000 it all began...

After carefully choosing a name to signify their own groups of supportive friends and family and the dream that someday the foundation would include an extended network of volunteers and donors working toward the same goal, All for Hope was born. The lighthouse logo was later added to represent hope and to remind others to believe in the possibility of a bright future, no matter what cancer challenges they are facing. However, it didn't take long for the board members to realize that there is much more involved in forming a cancer foundation than just choosing a name and planning a fundraiser! But having the encouragement of their families and many helping hands returning from the "Circle of Friends" days, together they knew they would make it work.

On May 22, 2005, the day of the first All for Hope Charity Golf Outing, the team truly understood for the first time why building the foundation is so important and well worth all the effort. Yes, it certainly was a chaotic day of fun, but witnessing a sold-out event on one of the most beautiful days of they year brought to life the idea that everyone together really can make a difference! With many thanks to supporters, All for Hope raised $58,000 and was reminded that each person has something valuable to contribute; choosing to attend an event, providing a donation, lending the team a helping hand, spreading information about the cause and adding in a smile or hug. It's all part of the experience!

Since the early days in 2004, the team has had the honor of raising $211,000 and donating to such places as the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Wellness House, and its recent partnership of Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL. In 2006, All for Hope felt the need to select an annual cause to be their primary beneficiary. As Children's Memorial is available to all of Chicagoland's most critically ill children, regardless of the families' abilities to pay, the team is now proud to be associated with the hospital's care. In 2006, All for Hope presented a check to Children's Memorial in the amount of $45,000 to aid their cancer related Patient and Family Services Program. In 2007, All for Hope raised $35,000, in 2008 $25,000 and in 2009 $35,000 for the hospital.

Today All for Hope looks forward to its annual golf outings and other fantastic fund raising events such as the Wine Gala, Family Fall Festival, Fit Families For A Cure, and the Poker Run. The team also has a growing number of volunteers who are becoming more involved in the operation and success of the foundation. All for Hope would like to thank their countless supporters, the businesses who have donated their goods and services, the numerous establishments and individuals who have contacted them through their website, and previous guest speakers. Because of everyone joining together to create this bright future, it really is All for Hope!