Israel Idonije partners with Benny’s Chop House

The Bears' defensive end hosted a private reception and dinner benefit for his nonprofit Israel Idonije Foundation, which economically provides programming and opportunities for deserving children and their families in Chicago, Canada and Idonije’s native Nigeria. Donors, fans and a few local celebs including Pursuit of Happyness film inspiration and brokerage firm owner Chris Gardner, Bears defensive tackle Anthony Adams and ABC sports reporter Ryan Chiaverini were in attendance.

According to the IIF’s executive director Natalie Boe, Izzy—as he’s affectionately called—frequents Benny’s after home games. The River North steakhouse's selection of succulent, grass-fed meats and stellar service undoubtedly keeps him coming back. I probably could’ve used a butter knife to cut through my prime rib, which I devoured unapologetically during Lent. Bar manager Deidre Hays’s black currant and vodka "Fizzys" weren’t second string either; she served the original concoction in a pop bottle with a plastic straw.

Both establishments are fairly new: The IIF is four-years-young and Benny’s has been around for only a year. Yet the evening was orchestrated in veteran fashion. Personable Idonije thanked, greeted and posed for photo ops with every single guest. Some lucky diners walked away with autographed jerseys, helmets and other Bear gear. Most importantly, the charity raised $15,000 for the kids.

The Israel Idonije Foundation’s next public event is hosted by the Jack and Jill of America Inc. Western Cook County Chapter on Saturday, May 14 6:30–11:30pm, VIP Reception 7–8pm with Idonije at the Oak Park Country Club, 2001 N Thatcher Ave, Oak Park. For additional information, please visit the website at israelidonije.org.

Benny’s Chop House is located 444 N Wabash Ave (312-626-2444, bennyschophouse.com).