The Tyler Robinson Foundation (TRF), founded by the Grammy Award-winning band Imagine Dragons, hosted the 11th Annual Rise Up Gala on Sept. 12 at Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The gala raised more than $2 million to support families battling pediatric cancer, and was the most successful event in the foundation’s history.
The event hosted hundreds of guests, with more than 200 travel industry members in attendance — driven by its special meaning for the travel community.
Tyler Robinson’s personal battle with cancer inspired Imagine Dragons to launch the foundation. Robinson was the teenage son of Shannon Robinson, owner of Melroy Travel and a Signature Travel Network member. From that personal connection, the foundation has grown into an industry-wide movement, with members, partners and even competitors joining together.
“It is remarkable to see the travel industry unite around this cause, honoring Tyler’s legacy in such a powerful way,” said Alex Sharpe, co-chair of TRF’s board and CEO of Signature Travel Network. “The generosity shown here tonight ensures families can focus on what matters most — being with their children — without the burden of financial stress. To witness our industry friends rallying together in this way was one of the most moving experiences of my career.”
The evening featured a variety of performances, including one from Imagine Dragons.
“This foundation is more important than songs,” Dan Reynolds, lead singer of Imagine Dragons, told the audience. “We just feel incredibly lucky and blessed to be a part of it because it’s so much bigger than us."
Other highlights of the star-studded event included hosting duties by Joel McHale, an appearance by actor Ken Jeong and a performance by Grammy-nominated artist Leona Lewis.
The Rise Up Gala has become TRF’s flagship event and one of Las Vegas’ most impactful philanthropic evenings to unite celebrities, industry leaders and supporters in a shared commitment to uplift families affected by pediatric cancer.