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130 Anniversary Gala Album is live! Thank you for joining us at our 130th Anniversary Gala at Morgan Manufacturing on Friday, May 10. |
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| The 130th Anniversary Gala, themed “Honoring the Past. Building the Future,” at Morgan Manufacturing on Friday, May 10 brought together more than 500 leaders from Chicago’s business, philanthropic and community sectors to commemorate the organization’s history, impact and future endeavors. This gala marked a significant milestone for Chicago Commons, reflecting on generations of impact in Chicago, while also signifying an inflection point for the remarkable growth the organization has experienced over the last few years.
With the unveiling of our refreshed brand identity and new logo, multiple federal initiatives for seniors in under-resourced communities on the South side and the announcement of upcoming initiatives of a new early education center at LeClaire Courts, we are eager to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families across Chicago. Thanks to you we successfully raised over $450,000 in funds to bolster future investments in empowering families throughout Chicago via the organization’s programs. These initiatives aim to empower parents and caregivers to equip their children with the essential tools and resources for success while also aiding seniors and individuals with disabilities to lead independent and dignified lives. Ana Belaval from WGN Morning News served as the event’s Master of Ceremony, and the evening included a cocktail reception, dinner and activities featuring and inspired by Chicago Commons’ programs. The gala also recognized community leaders who have made significant contributions to Chicago Commons’ mission. The event concluded with an after-party featuring the Chicago Players. The Lea Taylor Philanthropy Award was presented to JPMorgan Chase, which has been a long-time supporter of Chicago Commons. JPMorgan Chase has been instrumental in providing funding for programs to create workforce strategies helping low-income women and single mothers of color achieve financial stability and build wealth, such as through Chicago Commons’ successful Family Hub program and among others. Additionally, Evette Williams, the Pathways for Parents Leader, received the Donald L. Duster Leadership Award for her remarkable journey. Evette found hope and support through Chicago Commons’ Pathways for Parents Program. She pursued her dream of becoming an early educator, and reached her goal of becoming a teacher assistant. The gala owes its success to the generous support and sponsorship of Peoples Gas as the Presenting Sponsor, alongside esteemed contributors such as ComEd, Northern Trust, Purple Group and US Bank, who served as Grand Avenue Sponsors, among other amazing supporters. Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García and Congresswoman Delia Ramirez provided remarks during the event. Additional attendees included esteemed individuals such as Chicago Deputy Mayor Kenya Merritt, State Representative Kam Buckner, State Representative Theresa Mah, 25th Ward Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez, 43rd Alderman Timmy Knudsen and Illinois Department on Aging Director Mary Killough.
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