Get Your Tickets for the 150th Anniversary Awards

You are invited to Bright Promises's 150th Anniversary Awards on Tuesday, October 15 from 5-8p at the Chicago Cultural Center.

Honoring lifelong advocate for children Judith S. Block, American Indian leader Dr. Dorene P. Wiese, and outstanding volunteers Peggy and Paul Bodine.

Tickets are on sale and start at just $100!

The 150th Anniversary Awards is the premier celebration of the individuals and organizations who go above and beyond to ensure that every child in Chicago reaches their full promise and potential. This inspiring and uplifting occasion also raises critical funds that are invested in community organizations to address the urgent, unmet needs of children and families across Metropolitan Chicago.

‍

About the Honorees

Judith S. Block - Champion for Children Award

Judy Block's life work has been dedicated to all of Chicago’s children. She has served over 50 years in the city’s great cultural and education institutions as well as many foundations and human service agencies. Judy is a past Board chair and current Life Trustee of the Chicago Child Care Society. Judy is also a Life Trustee of her alma mater Northwestern University, a member and Chair of the Field Museum Women’s Board, and was the first woman to ever chair the Field Museum Board of Trustees.

Dr. Dorene P. Wiese - Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Wiese has spent 50 years advocating for children, and has dedicated her life to helping American Indian families in Chicago get the education they need to survive in today's world. She founded and serves as the President of the American Indian Association of Illinois that provides academic and other resources to over 100,000 American Indians in Illinois. Dr. Wiese is President of the Native American Educational Services, Inc. and serves as the artistic director for the Black Hawk Performance Company, which encourages Native youth to learn American Indian music and dance.

Peggy and Paul Bodine - President’s Award

Peggy and Paul Bodine have served as outstanding volunteer leaders for decades. Peggy is a member and past President of the Junior League of Chicago, and a member of the Field Museum Women’s Board. Peggy has also led many successful volunteer initiatives and helped raise critical funds to support Bright Promises Foundation’s growth. Paul is the founder of the Chicago School of Business Architecture Institute. He is a past President of Bright Promises and played an integral role in helping to develop the Foundation’s current innovative model of grant-making. Peggy and Paul are founding members of the Bright Promises Foundation Legacy Council.
‍

Special Performances by Chicago Youth Leaders

At the 150th Anniversary Awards event, Chicago youth leaders will share interactive displays and perform original songs, skits, and poetry inspired by their efforts to improve their communities. Bright Promises will also present $50,000 in special grants to support the work of five youth-led organizations. $10,000 grants will be presented to Arab American Action Network, Northwest Side Housing Center, Storycatchers Theater, True Star Media, and Yollocalli Youth Council of the National Museum of Mexican Art.

‍

The 150th Anniversary Awards celebration will include a cocktail reception with open bar and heavy hors d'oeuvres, a program honoring this year's award recipients, and performances by Chicago youth leaders. For more information and to reserve your tickets, visit www.brightpromises.org/150thanniversary.
‍

We hope you can join us!