Since its founding in 1857 as The Chicago Relief Aid Society, Metropolitan Family Services has become a cornerstone of support for families across Chicago, offering vital resources that empower individuals to overcome life’s greatest challenges. Whether helping a single mother access childcare while she pursues a college degree or guiding a family through the legal system to protect their rights, Metropolitan Family Services provides more than 122,970 families and individuals with the tools they need to reach their full potential and positively impact their communities.
To make these services possible, Metropolitan Family Services sponsors 10 community centers throughout Chicago and the suburbs, driving policy initiatives and programs that address the unique needs of vulnerable populations. It is through the unwavering dedication of staff and the financial support of philanthropic partners that these life-changing services are made possible.
This year, the 2024 Mpower the Night gala — a critical fundraiser for the organization — takes place on Nov. 1. This annual event not only supports Metropolitan Family Services’ expansive programming, designed to help families and individuals learn, earn, heal and thrive, but also serves as a celebration of community connection and resilience.
Ric Estrada, CEO of Metropolitan Family Services, joined ABC7 to talk about what Mpower means to families.
Adding to the impact of this year’s gala, a generous $25,000 matching grant has been donated by the Make It Better Foundation, doubling the effect of each dollar raised and enabling the organization to reach even more families across Chicagoland.
Mpower the Night, now in its 43rd year, will be held from 6 – 11 p.m. at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, 221 N. Columbus Drive, Chicago. This year, the event will honor two outstanding partners whose philanthropic leadership has significantly empowered Chicago-area families. Nicor Gas, represented by President & CEO Wendell Dallas, will be awarded the inaugural Corporate Champion Award for its dedication to strengthening communities across Northern Illinois. The Chicago Community Trust, a longstanding partner in promoting equity, will receive the Legacy Award, accepted by President & CEO Andrea Sáenz.
“As a company that is dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve throughout Northern
Illinois, Nicor Gas is truly honored to be recognized with the Corporate Champion Award,” says
Dallas. “We at Nicor Gas believe in making meaningful impact and Metropolitan Family Services does the same, empowering thousands of families and individuals yearly while making our communities stronger.”
“The Chicago Community Trust and Metropolitan Family Services share a deep commitment to creating equitable pathways to opportunity throughout the Chicago region,” says Sáenz. “We at the Trust are pleased to receive the Legacy Award from an organization with whom we share so much and whose services help us to create a society where people of all ages are able realize their full potential in safe, healthy communities.”
Thanks to the generous support of corporate, foundation, and individual sponsors, Mpower the Night will continue to empower thousands of lives across metropolitan Chicago, surrounding counties, and Central Illinois, helping families access the tools they need to thrive. With each year, Metropolitan Family Services and its community of supporters reaffirm their commitment to a stronger, more equitable Chicago.
How To Help
Visit the official Mpower the Night Gala website to learn more about the event, see the full list of sponsors, and donate to help them reach their $25K match goal.
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