Disney-Pixar holds ‘Monsters University’ fundraiser for JDRF

Mary Yanni June 22, 2013

1 minute read

“Monsters University” is expected to make at least $70 million at the box office in its debut weekend, but we have an even more impressive number to share:

$1.65 million.

That’s how much a Pixar preview screening of the movie raised for JDRF, the leading organization dedicated to funding research into treating and ultimately curing Type 1 diabetes.

The gala preview took place last weekend on Pixar’s campus in Emeryville, Ca. — already one of the coolest places on the planet even before it was decked out like Monsters U, complete with marching band, cheerleaders and beer pong tables (minus the beer).

About 400 party-goers, many in black tie, had the rare opportunity to tour the campus. The party started with college-themed food and drinks and a silent auction and continued with a sit-down dinner and live auction. Among the items available at auction: original Pixar artwork, a collection of Pixar Hawaiian shirts and a dinner for eight with John and Nancy Lasseter at their Sonoma winery.

And then there was the preview of the movie in the newly christened Steve Jobs Building. The theater comes with a bit of ambiance: As the lights go down, crickets begin to chirp and the stars come out.

“Monsters University” was the 7th movie Pixar has previewed to benefit JDRF. The cause is near and dear to the hearts of both the Lasseters and John Ratzenberger, the actor who has lent his voice to every Pixar movie. Both have grown children who live with Type 1 diabetes.

JDRF spends 85 percent of the money is raises on research into treatments and, ultimately, a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Inspired to help? Make a tax-deductible donate to JDRF anytime.

Photos below courtesy of JDRF Greater Bay Area via Flickr.