'Orange is the New Black' creator Piper Kerman shares her story at JUF Young Women's Board fundraiser

More than one hundred women packed The Art Center (TAC) of Highland Park last week to hear Piper Kerman, author of the bestselling memoir and inspiration for Emmy-nominated Netflix original series Orange is the New Black: My Year in a Women’s Prison, speak at the 2015 ‘Valor’ fundraiser hosted by the Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago’s Young Women’s Board.

Orange and black was the theme of the evening, which featured outfits, flowers, sweet treats, and gift bags in the signature colors – as well as an “orange carpet” where guests could strike a pose as they entered.

The event raised nearly $90,000 to support the Jewish United Fund’s important work in the community. As one of the largest nonprofit social welfare institutions in Illinois, JUF mobilizes resources to uplift the global and local Jewish community by supporting basic needs, creating Jewish experiences and strengthening Jewish community connections.

Elissa Goldsmith, of Deerfield, and Julie Novack, of Glencoe, chaired the event, along with Amy Hausman and Katie Taylor, of Highland Park, Vice Chairs; Rachel Stein and Robyn Tavel, of Glencoe, Vice Presidents, Campaign; Jennifer Wirth, of Winnetka, President, Campaign; and Devra Resnick Shutan, of Highland Park, Board Advisor.

A special thank you to the following event sponsors:

Joes Stone Crab

Table Compliments

The Bar Method

Midtown Athletic Club

Amy Soifer Designs

Style Shack

BloOuts Blow Dry Bar

Fun @ EStreet

Kenzy Décor in Highland Park

Enaz

Orange Theory Fitness

For more information, please visit www.juf.org/women.

(All photos by Robert Kusel.)