The Starlit Gala: A Night of Hope and Fundraising for Underserved Youth
On February 22, 2025, the vibrant city of Chicago will play host to an event brimming with hope and potential: the Annual Starlit Gala presented by A Boy and His Dream Foundation. Scheduled to take place at the trendy W Hotel City Center, this magical fundraising evening promises to provide a beacon of support for underserved children not only in Chicago but also extending its reach to youth in Nigeria.
Kicking off at 6 PM, the gala seeks to raise an ambitious $300,000 for a variety of crucial programs. These initiatives include scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and essential educational supplies designed to encourage young individuals to pursue their academic and professional dreams. Furthermore, the funds will be allocated towards the construction of playgrounds in Africa, creating safe spaces where children can thrive and engage in community activities.
Hosted by the dynamic Samantha Chatman alongside Dr. Tasha Green Cruzat, the Starlit Gala will be a night to remember. Guests can savor exquisite hors d'oeuvres and participate in a unique silent auction featuring several once-in-a-lifetime items. The 'adopt-a-star' initiative will also allow attendees to contribute directly to specific projects aimed at helping children. The evening's entertainment will be highlighted by the inspiring performances from the Yohan Experience, complemented by heartfelt testimonies from scholarship recipients whose lives have been transformed by the foundation.
Founder Sunny Akhigbe will share his vision and mission for the foundation, emphasizing the importance of hope as a driving force for the children they serve. In the words of Greg Dekalb, the Director of Scholarships, "Hope is the main message we want to convey to the children benefitting from our foundation—encouraging them to chase their dreams relentlessly. These opportunities will help them achieve their goals and create a better future."
This gala is more than just a fundraising event; it serves as a powerful bridge connecting community members and advocates for the empowerment of youth. By participating, attendees contribute to life-altering programs that have lasting impacts on the lives of children. Tickets are currently available for purchase through a designated link or by reaching out to Alexandria via email for more information.
This year's event is made possible thanks to its generous sponsors, including Stinar Gould Grieco Hensley, The Allen and Ellen M Blessman Family Fund, and The Stephen and Patricia Blessman Family Fund. Their commitment to creating change reflects the foundation's core values and underscores the importance of communal efforts toward the betterment of society.
A Boy and His Dream Foundation operates as a volunteer-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved youth through education, mentorship, and recreational spaces. Remarkably, 100% of the funds raised during events like the Starlit Gala directly support the children they serve. This allows for the continuous development of programs that nurture young talents, guiding them on a path toward success. To learn more about the foundation and its crucial work, visit their official website.
As the Starlit Gala approaches, the excitement builds, with anticipation not only for a night of entertainment and goodwill but for the empowered future of countless children. Together, with your support, we can illuminate the path forward for those who need it most.