2011 Annual Gala Raises Vital Funds to “Open Doors for Women in Chicago”

On June 17, 2011, hundreds of donors, volunteers, board members and participants joined together for a memorable evening at the Chicago Cultural Center for Deborah’s Place 2011 Annual Gala, “Opening Doors for Women in Chicago.”

Over 250 individuals and corporate sponsors donated and raised over $120,000 which will be used to provide life-changing supportive services, and safe, stable homes to the 400+ women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and served by Deborah’s Place.

Please enjoy these pictures from the event.

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (center) served as the event’s Keynote Speaker, pictured here with Deborah’s Place Executive Director Audrey Thomas and Board President Kim Cole.	The evening’s guests filled the hall, including several Deborah’s Place tenants– pictured here in the foreground.

Jim Stanley and guest raise their glasses to a great event accompanied by music from a live band, pictured in the rear.	Steering Committee Member JoAnn Pinetti (center) and guests

Throughout the evening guests mingled as they kept close eyes on their bids on the 38 silent auction items.	Event Chair Bonnie Hawkins looks on as guest Tom Opferman raises his paddle during the live auction.

Rebecca Johnson Apartments Tenant Emily Carter (l) speaks with Deborah’s Place volunteer Ceola Oware (r).	Gala Committee Member Jennifer Zordani (center) and guests enjoyed the evening

We were pleased to present former board member, Joyce Dugan, with the 2011 Patty Crowley Award for her 10+ years of volunteer work and contributions to Deborah’s Place.	Deborah’s Place tenant, Mary McFadden (left) was granted the Renewal of Spirit Award for her leadership and volunteerism within the organization. Mary is pictured here with Event Chair Bonnie Hawkins.

Thank you to the individuals who dedicated their time, energy, and skills to the event this year, and to all of our donors for their generous support!

Steering Committee	Event Committee	In-Kind Sponsors
Bonnie S. Hawkins, Chair Kimberly Cole Michael Demetriou Melissa Haase JoAnn Pinetti Steven Zick, Auctioneer Jennifer Zordani	Margit Anderson Catherine Colombo Robin Jessen Michael Lurie Christian Stahl	Auction Donors Constellation Brands, Inc. Crown Imports Brandy Fisher Karen & Michael Lurie Tropical Plant Rentals Steven Zick
Platinum Sponsor	Gold Sponsors	Bronze Sponsors
Northern Trust	Fifth Third Bank RR Donnelly	The Boeing Company Harris Bank