About The Emerald Benefit
The Emerald Benefit was founded by Kimaya Soin, a student, researcher, and passionate advocate who has lived with celiac disease since the age of four. What began as a personal challenge has become a lifelong mission: to raise awareness, fund vital research, and create a stronger, more supportive community for those affected by celiac disease.
In 2025, Kimaya launched the inaugural Emerald Benefit, bringing together more than 70 guests, community leaders, and local businesses. The event raised $15,000 for the Celiac Disease Foundation through their Team Gluten-Free program, while also amplifying awareness through press coverage, heartfelt storytelling, and community engagement.
But this is just the beginning. The 2026 Emerald Benefit will be even bigger—aiming to raise $50,000 with 200 guests, an expanded auction, and an elevated VIP experience. Anchored by Dr. Daniel O’Connell as keynote speaker, the event will unite science, advocacy, and lived experience in a single, unforgettable evening.
Beyond the fundraiser, Kimaya’s work includes publishing original research on public misconceptions about celiac disease, authoring an upcoming book for teens navigating the gluten-free journey, and planning a career in genetics and medicine with the ultimate goal of contributing to celiac disease research and treatment.
The Emerald Benefit is more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement. Every ticket, sponsorship, and donation fuels research, advocacy, and education. Together, we can transform the way the world understands celiac disease and bring hope to millions living with this invisible autoimmune condition.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Daniel O’Connell
Professional Activities
Dr. Daniel M. O’Connell is associate professor (CHS) and chief in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and vice chair of pediatric ambulatory specialty care for the Department of Pediatrics. He is a pediatric gastroenterologist with a clinical, research, and quality improvement interest in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). O’Connell is actively involved in research projects with medical students and residents investigating multiple pediatric GI diseases. Additionally, he serves as medical director of the Pediatric Specialty Clinics at UW Health Kids. In this role, he leads more than 200 physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) in operational aspects of ambulatory specialty care. On an international level, O’Connell is principal investigator of ImproveCareNow, a multidisciplinary collaborative in pediatric IBD.
Clinical Interests
O’Connell is a pediatric gastroenterologist with clinical interests and expertise in pediatric IBD, celiac disease, and general growth and nutrition issues in children and adolescents.
Research Interests
O’Connell’s research explores the intersection of quality- and value-based care in areas including IBD and celiac disease. He has been involved in clinical trials for novel therapeutics in pediatric IBD.
The Story Behind the Name
The Emerald Benefit was named to reflect both the cause and the spirit of the event. The color green represents celiac disease awareness, a reminder of hope, strength, and the ongoing fight for better understanding and treatment. The emerald, the birthstone of May—Celiac Disease Awareness Month—symbolizes healing, renewal, and growth. Together, these meanings capture the purpose of the Emerald Benefit: to bring people together in support of research, awareness, and a healthier future for all those affected by celiac disease.
Where Your Donation Goes
Every dollar raised through The Emerald Benefit through Team Gluten-Free supports the Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF) and helps advance their mission to improve the lives of everyone affected by celiac disease.
Your support helps fund:
Research & Innovation – accelerating scientific discovery, improving diagnosis, and working toward better treatments
Education & Awareness – providing trusted resources for patients, families, schools, and healthcare providers
Advocacy & Community Support – empowering families, strengthening support systems, and increasing access to proper care
CDF is committed to transparency and responsible use of donor funds. You can view their official financials and annual reports to learn more about how donations are allocated.
Learn more: https://celiac.org/about-the-foundation/financials-and-annuals/
Contact us
Have a question or want to support The Emerald Benefit? We welcome sponsorships, item donations, media inquiries, general questions, and more. For more information, please visit our Contact Us page.