Atlanta business mogul Mack Wilbourn hosted a private fundraiser and unforgettable 007 Secret Agent-themed party at the Piedmont Driving Club to benefit C.H.O.I.C.E.S. – the Center Helping Obesity In Children End Successfully.
In celebration of his 70th birthday, Wilbourn tapped a number of his fellow Atlanta business contemporaries to support the event, which welcomed Mayor Kasim Reed and legendary business leaders from Atlanta and around the world.
Among the highlights, Wilbourn presented the C.H.O.I.C.E.S organization with a six-figure donation, followed by another $25,000 check presentation. Additionally, Laurel Levy, the southeast regional director for Community Relations at Aetna’s Community Relations andUrban Marketing presented C.H.O.I.C.E.S with an additional $35,000 grant check on behalf of the Aetna Foundation.
Other event spectaculars included famed broadcaster and Atlanta’s own Monica Pearson who serenaded the 70-year-old 007 Agent, with a Marilyn Monroe-style rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Additionally, the birthday boy was surprised by a jazz tribute and performance by dear friend, Tom Burrell, founder of one of the first and most successful African American Advertising firm’s in the nation, Burrell Communications.
The event continued with an astounding portrait unveiling by acclaimed artist, Simmie Knox, the first black American artist to receive a presidential portrait commission. The breathtaking oil portrait featured Wilbourn, his two sons and President Obama. Wilbourn’s 90-year-old mother was also on hand for the unveiling and event. The evening concluded with music by DJ Tron and what seemed to be a never-ending party and celebration in honor of one of Atlanta’s most beloved businessmen.
The 007 Fundraiser was attended by the who’s who in Atlanta and was a powerful and meaningful gathering of influence and giving. Vanetta Keyes, founder and executive director of C.H.O.I.C.E.S. shares, “I could never express what Mack Wilbourn’s generosity and the generosity of his friends that supported this event means to C.H.O.I.C.E.S.” She continues, “He has been a guiding force for our organization from the very beginning. And now, we will be able to have a new Center in Atlanta where obesity prevention programs will be offered to all ages, all year round.”
Photography by: Caselove Productions
