Sneakers replaced stilettos and hit the dance floor as After School Matters supporters turned out for the fifth annual Sneaker Ball, hosted by the organization’s Associate Board at Punch Bowl Social. The event raised more than $175,000 for ASM’s Stipend Fund, ensuring that Chicago teens receive compensation for their time and talent across a wide […]
“Oh, I’ve had such a curious dream,” said Alice — and so did the 950 guests who stepped through a magical keyhole entrance on Saturday, May 31, for the Joffrey Ballet’s annual spring fundraiser. Held on a sprawling soundstage at Chicago’s Cinespace Film Studios, the “Joffrey Celebration” honored Board Chair Anne L. Kaplan and Life […]
Aimee Nolan’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at just 55 years old. At the time, Aimee was living out of state with two young children of her own, so her grandmother stepped in as caregiver — supporting Aimee’s mother until her passing at 62. Heartbreakingly, Aimee’s grandmother died just 10 days later, perhaps with […]
Music Theater Works’ annual gala, the Producers Gala: Luck Be a Lady, was held Saturday, April 5, at the Michigan Shores Club. The 2025 fundraiser broke previous gala records, raising more than $220,000 with 200 guests attending. The night included performances, live auctions, a paddle raise, gaming, and the presentation of the fourth annual Joyce […]
On April 30, 2025, more than 800 guests filled the Hilton Chicago ballroom for the 23rd Annual American Red Cross Heroes Breakfast — an uplifting celebration of ordinary individuals doing the extraordinary. Hosted by the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago, the event honored 12 exceptional people whose courage, compassion, and service have made a […]
The People’s Music School (TPMS) turned up the volume at its eighth annual Big Night Gala, raising over $740,000 to provide free, high-quality music education to Chicago youth. The Feb. 21 event, emceed by CBS Morning News Anchor Audrina Sinclair, brought nearly 450 guests to The Geraghty for a celebration of the transformative power of music. […]
Garfield Park Conservatory, a 2013 Make It Better Foundation Philanthropy Award Winner, transformed into a one-of-a-kind runway as floral designers unveiled stunning creations made entirely of plants and flowers at the annual FLEUROTICA fundraiser on Oct. 17, 2024. Drawing a sold-out crowd in just nine minutes, the event combined creative artistry with a mission to […]
Earlier this fall, Chicago’s civic, corporate, and community leaders came together for a night that was as impactful as it was inspiring. The After School Matters annual Gala, held Sept. 18 at 167 Events in Fulton Market, brought together more than 400 supporters, raising $2.59 million to fund after-school and summer programs that provide thousands […]
For birth parents who choose adoption, finding a community that understands their journey can be transformative. On Your Feet Foundation provides that space — one where birth parents are met with empathy, lifelong support, and resources that empower them to move forward with confidence. As the only secular, independent organization in the U.S. dedicated to […]
On June 14, the Joffrey Ballet, a major grant partner of the Make It Better Foundation, celebrated the Chicago end to an incredible 68th season with its largest annual fundraising event, this year titled, Midsummer Celebration. It only seemed fitting to plan a gala event inspired by Alexander Ekman’s Swedish take on “A Midsummer Night’s […]
