The Gillian Ragan Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, announced its inaugural Community Fundraiser in partnership with Pinnacle Brewing Company. The event will take place Saturday, May 17, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the brewery located at 15111 N. Hayden Rd., Unit 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. The open house is free to attend, family-friendly, and open to all ages, with guests welcome to come and go throughout the afternoon.
Activities include a silent auction, music bingo, raffles, craft beer, and food from Pinnacle Brewing's on-site kitchen. All proceeds will directly fund mental health therapy, grief counseling, and emotional healing resources for families navigating the loss of a child. Jenifer Mattioli, founder of The Gillian Ragan Foundation and mother of Gillian Grace Ragan, 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."
The silent auction features items donated by local businesses, including original artwork, sports memorabilia, dining experiences, wellness packages, gift baskets, Diamondbacks Advantage baseball tickets, and jewelry. Operating as a hybrid system, bidding opens online prior to the event and continues live at the venue. Guests can scan QR codes to bid via phone, while remote supporters can participate through the foundation's website at www.gillianraganfoundation.org. The auction includes real-time bidding, outbid notifications, proxy bidding, Buy It Now options, and anti-sniping protection.
Pinnacle Brewing Company, an award-winning family-owned craft brewery, provides the venue. Named 2025 Brewery of the Year at the Arizona Craft Beer Awards, 2025 Best Brewery in the Valley by Phoenix Magazine, and 2025 Best New Brewery by Phoenix New Times, the brewery's taproom and dog-friendly biergarten patio offer a welcoming setting for the community gathering.
The Gillian Ragan Foundation was established in memory of Gillian Grace Ragan, "Gigi," who passed away at age 14. Born with congenital orthopedic challenges, Gigi was known for her joy, compassion, and ability to make others feel seen. The foundation provides financial assistance for therapy and grief counseling through its Healing Assistance Program, ensuring families receive care without financial barriers. The foundation is governed by a dedicated board committed to carrying forward Gigi's legacy of kindness.
The community is invited to attend the event, bid in the silent auction online, make a direct donation via the foundation's website, or volunteer to support the event. Businesses and individuals interested in donating items or becoming sponsors are encouraged to contact the foundation directly.
