The Gillian Ragan Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families who have experienced the death of a child, has announced its first community fundraiser, set for May 17, 2026, at Pinnacle Brewing Company in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event, which is free and open to the public, will run from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the brewery's location at 15111 N. Hayden Rd., Unit 100.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will directly fund the foundation's Healing Assistance Program, which provides financial support for mental health therapy, grief counseling, trauma-informed care, EMDR, psychiatry, and support groups. The foundation was established by Jenifer Mattioli in memory of her daughter, Gillian Grace Ragan, who passed away at age 14.
'When you lose a child, your whole world changes in an instant,' said Mattioli. 'This fundraiser is about bringing our community together to ensure that no family has to face that darkness alone. Every dollar raised will fund therapy and healing resources for families who desperately need support but can't always afford it.'
The centerpiece of the event is a hybrid silent auction that opens online before the fundraiser and remains live throughout the afternoon at the venue. Items include original artwork, sports memorabilia, dining experiences, wellness packages, gift baskets, Diamondbacks Advantage baseball tickets, and jewelry. In-person attendees can scan QR codes placed near each item to bid via phone, while remote supporters can participate through the foundation's website at www.gillianraganfoundation.org. The auction features real-time bidding, outbid notifications, proxy bidding, Buy It Now options, and anti-sniping protection.
Additional activities include music bingo, raffles, craft beer, and food from Pinnacle Brewing's on-site kitchen. The event is family-friendly and open to all ages, with a come-and-go format.
Pinnacle Brewing Company, an award-winning family-owned brewery, was named 2025 Brewery of the Year at the Arizona Craft Beer Awards, 2025 Best Brewery in the Valley by Phoenix Magazine, and 2025 Best New Brewery by Phoenix New Times. Brewmaster Wyatt Wilson leads the brewery, which features a spacious taproom and dog-friendly biergarten patio.
The foundation's mission is to ensure that no family faces the financial burden of grief counseling after losing a child. The fundraiser aims to raise awareness and funds to expand access to these critical services. Community members can attend the event, bid online, make direct donations via the foundation's website, or volunteer.
Gillian Grace Ragan, known as 'Gigi,' was born on December 19, 2008, in Scottsdale. Despite congenital orthopedic challenges, she was known for her joy, compassion, and ability to make others feel seen. Her legacy continues through the foundation, which is co-founded by her brother Triston Ragan and governed by a board of directors.
The fundraiser represents a significant step for the young foundation, which relies on community support to provide healing resources. By partnering with a local business like Pinnacle Brewing Company, the foundation hopes to engage a broad audience and demonstrate the community's collective commitment to supporting grieving families.
