More than 840 guests helped raise $1.2 million at the Cubs’ annual Bricks and Ivy Ball to benefit Chicago Cubs Charities. Cubs owners, players, front office associates and fans gathered at Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom last week to enjoy cocktails, dinner, silent/live auctions and live music by DJ Kasper K and his 70s dancers. The event supports numerous organizations and programs targeting youth sports access and improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk.

Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts addressed the team’s commitment to supporting Chicago’s children through community outreach and charitable programming.

“Our goal is to make life better for the youth and families of Chicago by doing our part to improve health, fitness and educational opportunities for those at risk,” Ricketts said. “Whether it’s a hospital visit, holiday toy drive, serving lunch at a USO or Thanksgiving dinner to homeless teens, our team is there donating their time and resources.”

During the evening, Chicago Cubs Charities introduced a video featuring some all-star youth who have benefitted from grants, including Cubs Care grants, a McCormick Foundation Fund. Hannah Perez from Cubs Care RBI Fast Pitch Girls Softball, Isaac Diaz from Urban Initiatives, Aaron Ibarra from Midtown Educational Foundation and Devin Hall from Breakthrough Urban Ministries talked about how the Cubs are making a difference in their communities. The video also featured Cubs players Darwin Barney, David DeJesus, Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Samardzija who interviewed the youth for the video.