Old Bags Luncheon™spent more than two decades transforming luxury handbags into a fundraising engine that has generated millions for charitable organizations internationally. Founded by Eileen Cornacchia in Palm Beach in 1999, the organization evolved from a local luncheon into a recognizable philanthropy brand with affiliated events across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Now, Cornacchia appears focused on a different objective: preparing the company for its next phase of leadership and long-term expansion.
"I always wanted this organization to become larger than me," Cornacchia says. "You build something over many years, and eventually you start thinking about who can carry it forward with the same level of care and vision."
Built around designer handbag auctions and high-profile luncheons, Old Bags Luncheon™functions as a fundraising category that aims to amplify the impact of nonprofits. According to studies, charitable contributions in the United States have exceeded$590 billion in recent years, while others suggest thatengaging potential donors in creative activitiesbefore asking for a donation ameliorates donation behavior.
Cornacchia recognized this opportunity early.
She says, "People support causes differently today. They want connection, atmosphere, entertainment, and purpose all tied together."
The organization's business structure reflects that shift. Within each event, Cornacchia highlights that luxury handbags donated by supporters are auctioned during curated luncheon events attended by philanthropists, business leaders, fashion insiders, and community figures. Proceeds are intended to benefit charitable organizations focused largely on healthcare, children's causes, and social services.
The events held in Palm Beach over the decades have helped establish Old Bags Luncheon™as a fixture within luxury philanthropy circles.Public figureshave participated in previous events, while partnerships with premium brands have expanded the organization's visibility beyond traditional nonprofit spaces.
Cornacchia notes that consistency became one of the company's greatest strengths.
"We created a format people trusted. From sponsors to donors to charities, everyone understood it," she says. This operational reliability, she adds, helped the organization scale internationally. Cornacchia spent years refining sponsorship structures, donor engagement systems, auction logistics, and event replication models that could function across multiple markets while maintaining the same identity.
Source: International Business Times UK
