2024 Hope on the Hill Gala – The Driving Force

Van Andel Institute’s signature gala is back for its 24th year! Join us for Hope on the Hill — The Driving Force on Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Amway Hangar at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

Hope on the Hill — The Driving Force combines the intricate motor work of vintage automobiles with the precision of biomedical research, all while celebrating science, discovery and the heroes working to build a better tomorrow.

The event will focus on the power, intricacies, and impact of iconic vehicles, including two unique cars available for auction: A 1962 Ford Thunderbird in a gorgeous light-blue and a 1972 Buick Riviera sporting an eye-catching green look along with its iconic boat tail. Both vehicles have been carefully maintained by a single owner over the last few decades.

Further mechanical prowess will be on display, as guests will get to view a selection of 15 vehicles, including vintage, historic, exotic, and powerful cars, all generously delivered for exposition by members of the VAI community. 

More lively experiences await in the stunning Amway Hangar, where guests will find exquisite food, delectable drinks and world class entertainment. Unforgettable experiences and unique items will be available at a silent auction and paddle raise.

All proceeds benefit biomedical research and education programs at the Institute.

Suggested attire for the evening is cocktail attire.

Individual tickets for this event are $250 each.

3-Hour Jet Ride with Apogee Air
This incredible package is for use on an SF50 Cirrus Vision Jet, which seats up to six passengers (four adults and two children under 90 lbs.). Offer includes plane, fuel and pilot for one day. Sample trip for 3 hours would be Grand Rapids to Nashville and back.
Value: $9,500 | Starting Bid: $4,750

3M Product Basket
Assorted 3M products to assist with everything from cleaning and organizing, to office work and safety!
Value: $120 | Starting Bid: $60

“4GR8Food” Restaurant Package
$100 gift card for any of the 4GR8Food restaurants, including:

• Apache Trout Grill
• Bagel Beanery
• Beltline Bar
• Boone’s Prime Time Pub
• Flap Jack Shack
• Grand Coney
• Noble
• Omelette Shoppe
• Pete’s Grill & Tavern
• Rainbow Grill
• Red Geranium
• Real Food Café
• Rockwell Republic
• Sundance Grill
• West End Tavern

Value: $100 | Starting Bid: $50

A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort Package
Enjoy a $300 gift card to A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, offering four stunning courses along Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. To Native Americans, “a-ga-ming” means “on the shore,” which this premier Northern Michigan golf destination certainly is!
Value: $300 | Starting Bid: $150

Albanese Confectionary Basket
Gift basket filled with the world’s best chocolates and gummies!
Value: $115 | Starting Bid: $58

Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Package
Includes the following:

• Overnight accommodations for two in a luxurious guest room.
• 20% discount on non-sale, non-food items in the Plaza Essentials Gift Shop and additional select retail shops.
• Self or valet parking for one vehicle with unlimited in and out access.
• One bottle of wine: your choice of Sparkling Wine, Pinot Grigio or Cabernet Sauvignon.
• One $100 food and beverage gift card for Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Grand Rapids.

Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

Barracks 616 Lesson Package
One-hour firearm lesson with trained professional.
Value: $75 | Starting Bid: $38

BMW One-Day Driver’s School
Start with a brief classroom session to go over key concepts, then take it to the track for pulse-elevating exercises involving the wet skid pad and panic breaking. After lunch, you’ll head back for the Handling Course, and finally a timed lap to bring together everything learned that day. Locations to choose from include Spartanburg, South Carolina; Thermal, California; or Indianapolis, Indiana.
Value: $999 | Starting Bid: $500

Car-Care Detailing Gift Basket
Deluxe gift basket tote, complete with everything needed to make your car sparkle like new, including cleaners, wax, cloths, mops, air fresheners and organizers.
Value: $350 |  Starting Bid: $175

Cherished Car Storage Package
Six months of storage, starting Oct. 1, 2024, to April 1, 2025. Heated, private and secure. This is the perfect storage facility for your vintage, collectable, rare or seasonal cherished vehicle. Conveniently located in the Schuler Bookstore Building on 28th St., Grand Rapids.
Value: $900 | Starting Bid: $450

Children’s Driving-Themed Gift Basket
Gift basket complete with Lego kit, truck, storybooks, toy cars, and electronic racers.
Value: $350 | Starting Bid: $175

Crystal Clean Auto Detailing Package
Deluxe exterior and interior auto detail.
Value: $350 | Starting Bid: $175

Custer Design Package for Commercial Design — 20 Hours
Know you need a refresh but don’t know where to start? Having trouble attracting fresh talent? Dying to know what the latest workplace trends are and how to implement them? At Custer we know that a beautiful and impactful space begins with great design, and we offer an array of services to get you there. Design can be nuanced, as it touches so many aspects of a project. This package for 20 hours of design can be used in whatever way you have the greatest need. We are excited for the opportunity to work with you and look forward to helping bring your dreams to life!

Ideas can include …

• Programming review of needs and functions.
• Discussion of current and future state, workplace or otherwise.
• Space planning exploration with new and/or pre-existing furniture.
• Visit your project site to field verify and 2D create plan.
• 3D modeling of space.
• Concept for custom millwork.
• Discussion on acoustical needs.
• Assistance with accessory selection and placement of accessories.
• Selection of plants and planters, artwork, window treatments and privacy film.
• Selection architectural finishes including, paint, wallcovering, flooring and tile.
• Selection of architectural fixtures such as lighting or plumbing.

Value: $4,000 | Starting Bid: $2,000

Custom Designed Cornhole Boards
Beautiful hand-made set of cornhole boards, ready to be custom-designed however you’d like! Boards are made by youth who participate in the Employment Program at Wedgwood Christian Services.
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

Diamond Tennis Bracelet
1.32 ctw lab grown diamond tennis bracelet set in solid 14k yellow gold.
Value: $1,950 | Starting Bid: $975

“Dine with Wine” Package
$50 gift card to Noto’s Old World Italian Dining, two bottles of red wine and two bottles of white wine.
Value: $130 | Starting Bid: $65

Dinner for 6 at Nonna’s: The Trattoria — Package #1
Enjoy dinner for six people at Nonna’s — up to $360. Excludes alcohol, tax and gratuity. Valid through October 2025.
Value: $360 | Starting Bid: $180

Dinner for 6 at Nonna’s: The Trattoria — Package #2
Enjoy dinner for six people at Nonna’s — up to $360. Excludes alcohol, tax and gratuity. Valid through October 2025.
Value: $360 | Starting Bid: $180

Dormie Network: One-Year Private Destination Golf Membership
Enjoy a 1-year membership and initiation fee with Dormie Network, a national network of golf clubs combining the experience of destination golf with the premier hospitality of private membership! It’s pure golf as it should be. Dormie Network membership extends complete access to, and full member privileges at every club in the network. Each club offers an intimate, pure golf experience in a relaxing environment ideal for business or leisure. Membership includes access to:

• Six nationally ranked courses designed by master architects. No greens fees, cart fees, or reciprocal play arrangements.
• Onsite cottages in various sizes per club, with four master suites, fireplace, fully stocked bar, and private patio and firepit.
• Regionally inspired, seasonal farm-to-course menus and a creative cocktail program to be enjoyed at the clubhouse, in a private dining space, or at your cottage.
• Fully stocked golf shops, club fittings, personal shopping, custom orders, corporate merchandising, and cottage gifts for your stay.
• State-of-the-art practice facilities and personalized clinics.

This package includes full member privileges at the six private clubs:

• ArborLinks Golf Club- Nebraska City, NE
• Ballyhack Golf Club – Roanoke, VA
• Briggs Ranch Golf Club – San Antonio, TX
• Dormie Club- West End, NC
• GrayBull Club- Maxwell, NE
• Hidden Creek Golf Club- Egg Harbor Township, NJ
• Victoria National Golf Club- Newburgh, IN

Value: $30,000 | Starting Bid: $7,500

Ethos Day Spa — Head Spa Treatment
Each Head Spa service begins with a Specialized Scalp Analysis using a magnification tool that enables us to see the condition and health of the scalp. After each Scalp Analysis our stylists recommend the best treatment for the health of the scalp. Once the treatment is applied to the scalp a relaxing scalp massage is performed to improve the efficacy of the topical scalp treatment. Following the application of the scalp treatment, we steam the scalp which removes build up and deep cleans pores. Then, a shampoo head massage further removes build up and increases blood flow to the scalp and head region. Finally, our Oway Organics treatment masks are applied to nourish the hair and scalp.
Value $100 | Starting Bid $50 

Ferris Coffee & Nut — Gift Basket #1
A delicious assortment of sweet and salty snacks sure to satisfy any craving!
Value: $60 | Starting Bid: $30

Ferris Coffee & Nut — Gift Basket #2
The best of Ferris — includes tea and coffee products, a mug, koozie and snacks!
Value: $60 | Starting Bid: $30

Frederik Meijer Gardens Family Membership & Gift Basket
One-year family membership to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, plus gift basket including Lego set, American Horse book, carnivorous growarium, two small terrariums, two sticker books, plush cactus, butterfly patch and keychain.
Value $240 | Starting Bid: $120 

Good Hart Haven Cottage Getaway Package
Three-night getaway at lakeside four-bedroom cottage in Good Hart. Enjoy a fall color tour of winter ski weekend. Located in Good Hart along the Tunnel of the Trees, with a three-minute walk to the private beach. The Good Hart Haven Cottage is 15 minutes from downtown Harbor Springs, ski and golf resorts. The cottage includes four bedrooms along with a loft that has two twin beds, sleeps up to 10.
Value: $1,200 | Starting Bid: $600 

Grand Meadows Farm ½ Beef, Package #1
One half of beef (approx: 375 lbs) from Grand Meadows Farm. Custom cut per the buyer’s instructions.
Value: $2,000 | Starting Bid: $1,000

Grand Meadows Farm ½ Beef, Package #2
One half of beef (approx: 375 lbs) from Grand Meadows Farm. Custom cut per the buyer’s instructions.
Value: $2,000 | Starting Bid: $1,000

Grand Rapids Griffins VAI Purple Community Game Package
Grand Rapids Griffins purple jersey, four vouchers to a Griffins game and four vouchers to a Rise game.
Value: $520 | Starting Bid: $260

Grand Rapids Symphony: Two Tickets to “Sax & the City” Friday Performance
Friday evening performance, Jan. 10, 2025. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m., DeVos Performance Hall.
Value: $138 | Starting Bid: $69

Grand Rapids Symphony: Two Tickets to “Sax & the City” Saturday Performance
Saturday evening performance, Jan. 11, 2025. Concert begins at 7:30 p.m., DeVos Performance Hall.
Value: $138 | Starting Bid: $69

Grilla Chimp Tailgater Wi-Fi Wood Pellet Grill
Perfect for tailgating, camping, your backyard or anywhere else, the Chimp is durably constructed with versatility in mind. Now, you can take it anywhere, and control it anywhere with Grilla Grills new Alpha Connect Control Board. With Alpha Connect, you can:

• Start or stop your grill from anywhere you have a wireless connection.
• Monitor temperatures, set probe and grill temperature alarms.
• Utilize our new TempTamer technology.

Value: $599 | Starting Bid: $300

Haworth Zody Task Chair
Light brown Zody task chair that is height adjustable, with sliding seat pan, forward tilt and back lock.
Value: $1,383 | Starting Bid: $692

Heidi Christine’s Salon Package
Certificate for a pedicure and color/highlight/blow-dry service. Salon staff will also provide a free haircut if an apprentice is available at the time of appointment.
Value: $190 | Starting Bid: $80

“Intro to Pickleball Camp” Package for 16 Players Led by Pickleball Experts at 20×44 Sports
Enjoy a two-hour beginner’s pickleball lesson at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Rooftop Pickleball Courts. The package is for up to 16 players and can be held at a time of your choosing. You can bring coworkers, employees, or friends to learn from the pickleball experts at 20×44 Sports.
Value: $1,000 | Starting Bid: $500

Introductory Flight Day & Aviator Swag with Apogee Air
Reach the stars in luxury! This package includes a one-hour flight in our prestigious 2024 Cirrus G7 SR20 Aircraft, up to 2.5 hours with a Certified Flight Instructor and an Aviator Swag Basket. Bring a friend, or two! You could even do it as a Fall Colors flight or a flight to lunch! Flight training does not get better than this. All ages welcome. Seats up to three passengers.
Value: $1,050 | Starting Bid: $525

Lake Michigan Happy Hour Package
Wine and cheese happy hour and boat ride evening on Lake Michigan, coordinated with Tim and Kim Long.
Value: $1,000 | Starting Bid: $500 

Maui Jim Polarized Aviator Sunglasses
Silver frame with grey lenses.
Value $319 | Starting Bid: $160 

Medical Grade Skincare Bundle
Includes the following:

• Baby Foot Exfoliating Foot Peel
• Grand Pearl Intensive Hand Cream
• Revision Lip Replenisher
• Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser
• SkinCeuticals Body Tightening Concentrate
• SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30
• Avéne Thermal Spring Water Spray
• Jane Iredale Triple Luxe Lipstick

Value: $312 | Starting Bid: $156

“Michigan Made” Gift Basket
Selection of Michigan products from The Crushed Grape.
Value: $250 | Starting Bid: $125

Michigan State University vs. Rutgers — Two Tickets to Football Game
Two tickets plus a parking pass to the MSU vs. Rutgers game at Spartan Stadium on Nov. 30, 2024. West Lower area, Section 23, Row 25.
Value: $220 | Starting Bid: $110

Mission BBQ Basket
$50 gift card to Mission BBQ, insulated grill bag with grilling tools, and a 6-pack “fill your own sauce” package.
Value: $120 | Starting Bid: $60

Nothing Bundt Cakes Certificate
Certificate for two dozen bundtinis.
Value: $42 | Starting Bid: $21

“Ocea” Art Piece
Mixed media assemblage on canvas, 31″ x 31″
Value: $1,500 | Starting Bid: $750

Pickleball Tote Bag & Accessories
“Pickleball Vibes” tote bag filled with the following: Holbrook Mav Pro paddle, Holbrook Mav Pro E paddle, a set of three Holbrook outdoor pickleballs, baseball hat, visor, pickleball mug, two can coolers and a set of pickleball-themed beverage mixing sticks.
Value: $512 | Starting Bid: $256

Preusser’s Jewelers Necklace
Ladies 14 karat yellow gold 24″ lariat styled necklace with a briolette blue topaz.
Value: $720 | Starting Bid: $360

Private Planetarium Show & Tour
A private planetarium show and tour for up to 20 guests at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. This will include appetizers and beverages provided by the Museum, taking place after business hours.
Value: $1,200 | Starting Bid: $600

Ray-Ban Clubmaster Classic Sunglasses
Polished grey with black lenses.
Value $257 | Starting Bid: $129

Real Seafood Co. Package
$200 gift card for use at Real Seafood Co. (or other restaurant within the Mainstreet Ventures Restaurant Group).
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

Rueben Antonio Floral & Design
$500 gift card toward fresh floral design.
Value: $500 | Starting Bid: $250

Schuil Coffee Basket
Large basket containing $100 Schuil Café gift card, four 12 oz. bags of coffee, 20 ct. Stash tea, merchandise and treats!
Value: $250 | Starting Bid: $125

The Chophouse: Dinner for Two
Four-course dinner for two at The Chophouse GR, with cocktail and wine pairings. Gratuity is not included. Package cannot be used on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day.
Value: $400 | Starting Bid: $200

The Crushed Grape Wine Club Membership
One year membership of monthly wine gift basket.
Value: $250 | Starting Bid: $125

The Flying Dutchman — Tritoon Adventure
Two-hour ride Monday through Thursday for Summer 2025, taking place in Saugatuck, Michigan.
Value: $800 | Starting Bid: $400 

Tova Salon Massage & Wine Basket Package
Ninety-minute therapeutic or deep tissue massage from TOVA, and relaxation wine basket with soaps, candle and towels.
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

TuroSkin Bundle
Includes the following:

• TuroSkin 3-in-1 Shower Cleanser
• TuroSkin Multi-Active Shave
• TuroSkin Lotion & SPF 15
• TuroSkin Regenerating Night Cream
• TuroSkin Revitalizing Eye Cream
• TuroSkin Travel Bag

Value: $234 | Starting Bid: $117

Two-Hour Photo Session at M-Buck Studio, LLC
West Michigan’s award-winning photographer Micheal Buck of M-Buck Studio will provide a two-hour photo session on location within an hour distance of Grand Rapids. From artistic photos of you and your awesome autos to memorable family photos, this session is sure to be an exciting adventure! This package also includes the digital high-resolution files.
Value: $650 | Starting Bid: $325

“Tyre Tikes” Racing Steering Wheel #1
A replica race car steering wheel (easy to turn with push buttons and mounted on a base). Children can drive along at home while watching the race!
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100

“Tyre Tikes” Racing Steering Wheel #2
A replica race car steering wheel (easy to turn with push buttons and mounted on a base). Children can drive along at home while watching the race!
Value: $200 | Starting Bid: $100 

Urban You Reserve VIP Party
Elevate your next gathering with an unforgettable experience for up to six guests. Each attendee will enjoy our signature wellness bar, express medical spa services and a personalized consultation with an expert provider. Savor a selection of fine wine and appetizers as you and your guests indulge in an evening or afternoon of pure wellness and pampering. The host will receive free neurotoxin (Jeuveau) for a year (up to 250 units).

Event highlights:

• Skincare Masterclass: A brief session where guests can learn about skincare routines and products for men and women.
• Aesthetic Services: Choice of a revitalizing express facial or dermaplaning for each guest.
• Skin Rejuvenation Consultations: Free consultations are available for guests interested in biostimulators, hydration boosters, fillers, or neurotoxins, with special event pricing.
• Wellness Bar: Vitamin Shots — B12 vitamin injections to increase energy and wellness.
• Pampering Services: Hand paraffin treatment — a warm, relaxing treatment that leaves hands soft and smooth.
• Set an appointment for a full wellness consultation which includes Urban You’s Reserve experience — NuCalm’s neuroacoustic options of recovery and restoration.

Value: $5,500 | Starting Bid: $2,750

West Michigan Whitecaps Package
Family four pack of tickets, including four hot dogs and four sodas, plus opportunity to throw the first pitch of the game!
Value $214 | Starting Bid $107

Directions to Event Parking – Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)
Upon arriving at the airport, please follow the event signage directing you to the designated parking area adjacent to the Economy Lot. Kindly note that this will not be the regular Economy Lot entrance. Instead, you will be directed to the highlighted entrance on Welsh Drive SE, as indicated on the provided map. Valet service will be available in the designated lot for your convenience. Event staff and signage will assist you in locating the appropriate entrance and parking area, where the shuttle service will transport you to the Amway Hangar.

Rideshare Drop-offs:
Ride-share drop-offs should utilize the designated area on Corporate Drive. Corporate Drive is a cul-de-sac running north and south, adjacent to the main hangar. For the most accurate navigation, use “Corporate Drive and Ross Drive” as the drop-off address.

Signage and event staff will be present to help guide you to the correct area.