Bid Raise Bid

Bid Raise Bid — led by nationally respected charity auctioneer Chris Hensley — brings high-energy fundraising and deep nonprofit strategy to gala events and benefit auctions. Chris and his team don’t just call bids; they create momentum for causes by blending engaging crowd work with a thorough understanding of an organization’s mission. Their approach helps clients connect donors to impact in a way that feels inspiring and fun, not transactional.

Chris is a licensed benefit auctioneer based in Chicago, known for his work with nonprofits across Illinois and nationwide. He’s been recognized as one of the top charity auctioneers in the sector and consistently helps organizations raise significantly more at their events through his energetic yet thoughtful auction style.

At the 79th Anniversary Gala for the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra held at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, I was brought in to document Chris in action as he led both the live auction and paddle raise segments. The goal was to capture not just the outcomes — including a stunning $231,000 raised for CYSO — but the energy, excitement, and emotional connection in the room: donors leaning in, paddle after paddle going up, and firsthand reactions from stakeholders who experienced the night’s success.

Click the images below to view highlights from the Event.