LAS VEGAS (September 22, 2005)—TRF (The Tyler Robinson Foundation) founded by GRAMMY® Award-winning band Imagine Dragons, hosted its annual Rise Up Gala on Friday, September 12 at Las Vegas’ ARIA Resort & Casino to tremendous success! The annual event, now in its eleventh year, raises money for pediatric cancer families and celebrates the inspirational kids fighting such brave battles. This year more than 30 families attended the gala – the largest amount in the event’s history. Founded in honor of Tyler Robinson, whose courageous fight against cancer inspired millions, TRF has raised more than $30 million since its inception, directly aiding families across the globe. The annual Rise Up Gala is the foundation’s flagship event, drawing philanthropists, celebrities and supporters together for a night of generosity and celebration.
“This is our favorite night of the year, and this foundation is more important than songs,” Dan Reynolds said talking about the importance of TRF. “We just feel incredibly lucky and blessed to be a part of it because it’s so much bigger than us.”
Over the course of the evening, actor Ken Jeong joined returning host Joel McHale to provide many memorable moments including their own performance of “Radioactive.” The hosts joining Imagine Dragons on stage to give their own take on the hit song was one of the night’s highlights.
The show quickly became a dance party as dozens of kids gathered in front of the stage, danced along with Dragons’ front man Dan Reynolds prompting the band to donate thousands in honor of their impressive moves. A heartwarming highlight that lit up the entire room. The star-studded night also included GRAMMY®- nominated recording artist and new Vegas headliner Leona Lewis who showed support joining several kids on stage to help announce raffle winners.
With the $12,000 Signature Grant, families receive a full year of financial support that covers essentials like housing, utilities, and groceries, so parents can focus on their child’s recovery instead of bills. The Travel Grant, up to $5,000, helps families get to out-of-state treatments and therapy, making sure kids aren’t separated from their loved ones just because of distance or travel costs. For moments that matter, the Family Fun Grant offers up to $2,000 so families can celebrate birthdays, holidays, or just have a much-needed night out together, creating special memories even in tough times. The Path to Heaven Grant steps in for families facing the unimaginable, providing help with funeral and burial expenses when they need it most. And in moments of crisis, the Emergency Grant delivers up to $1,000 for urgent needs – whether it’s a sudden loss of income, a broken-down car, or an unexpected repair – so families aren’t left scrambling during treatment.
For more information and to donate, visit trf.org/gala. For more information, contact info@trf.com.
About Tyler Robinson Foundation
Founded in 2013 by the Grammy Award-winning band Imagine Dragons and the Robinson family, the Tyler Robinson Foundation (TRF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families financially and emotionally as they cope with a pediatric cancer diagnosis. TRF works to offset out-of-pocket life expenses that arise during treatment – helping families stay in their homes, keep food on the table, and maintain stability during the fight of their lives. Rooted in the values of trust, resilience, and family, TRF empowers families to navigate the unimaginable with strength and dignity. Inspired by the life and legacy of Tyler Robinson, a courageous teen who faced cancer with unshakable optimism, TRF continues to grow its impact globally – while remaining deeply committed to walking alongside families every step of the way. Learn more at www.trf.org.
