WINGS’ 12th annual “Sweet Home Chicago” holiday-themed brunch, held Dec. 13 at the Four Seasons Chicago hotel, was a record-breaker for the nonprofit, raising more than $1 million. More than 400 people attended the family-friendly fundraiser, which supports WINGS’ shelters, programs and services for women and children affected by domestic violence throughout the Chicago area.
At the benefit, nearly 200 children, along with their parents and grandparents, enjoyed balloon artists, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and dancing to live music performed by Ralph’s World, a popular children’s musical group. In the hotel’s Stateroom, kids happily decorated gingerbread houses.
K-9 Comfort Dogs (all golden retrievers) from Lutheran Church Charities lounged in the reception area to welcome visitors. The dogs, enlisted year-round to provide emotional comfort, “are very calming,” said director Rich Martin. “They allow kids to open up their hearts and receive help for whatever is affecting them.” A Comfort Dog stuffed animal was given to each child attending the benefit.
Prior to a lavish brunch buffet in the Grand Ballroom, guests posed for family portraits in front of a wintry backdrop scene for photographer Curtis Newborn. Attendees dined at tables topped with lanterns, candy canes and pine branches. Bright, white stars were projected onto the walls for an added holiday effect.
Ron and Christina Gidwitz served as honorary co-chairs along with event co-chairs Meghan Norton and Anna Bilton. Other notable guests included Cece and Tom Ricketts, Ellen and Jim O’Connor, Craig Duchossois, Jackie and Glenn Tilton, Dominic DiFrisco, Prue and Frank Beidler and WINGS board President Matt Baumann. Also in attendance were Rita and John Canning, who started this event and recruit the honorary co-chairs.
More Top Picks Best Beard Trimmers
Since it opened in 2005, WINGS’ northwest suburban Safe House has provided nearly 85,000 nights of shelter to 3,400 women and children. Funds raised from this event will cover 10 months of operating costs for the Safe House. Some of the proceeds will be allocated to its newest shelter, WINGS Metro, currently under construction on Chicago’s Southwest Side and scheduled to open in February.
“It takes so much courage and blind faith to walk away from an abusive situation, not knowing how you will feed your children or where you will live,” said Rebecca Darr, WINGS CEO. “When someone takes this step into the unknown, they need solid ground placed beneath them so that they have a chance to fly.”
Freelance writer Candace Jordan is involved with many local organizations, including some whose events she covers.
More coverage
Find more photos and events at www.chicagotribune.com/candidcandace. Visit Candid Candace’s website.