2026 Annual Gala: Illuminate the Future

Illuminate the Future: Lighting the Way for Children and Families to Thrive

Join One Family Illinois for an inspiring evening celebrating the power of family, community, and possibility.

Thursday, November 5, 2026
6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
The Geraghty
2520 S. Hoyne Avenue, Chicago
Cocktail or Black Tie Optional

One Family Illinois is illuminating the future for children and families through a distinctive foster care model that prioritizes keeping siblings together and preserving family bonds. With the dedication of professional foster parents and the stability of our family-centered villages, children and parents receive the support they need to heal, grow, and thrive.

Together, we will celebrate the leaders and partners whose vision, generosity, and service continue to strengthen One Family Illinois and create brighter futures.

Recipient of the Legacy of Family Award

As a member of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, Lynn's leadership, vision, and generosity have helped advance the mission of One Family Illinois. She was instrumental in establishing Chicago Village, creating opportunities for siblings in foster care to remain together in safe, stable family homes. As Chicago Village marks its 20th anniversary, we are proud to recognize Lynn's enduring commitment to children and families.

Recipient of the Heart of the Village Award

Through its generous financial support and countless volunteer hours, BorgWarner has demonstrated a meaningful commitment to One Family Illinois. The dedication of the BorgWarner team exemplifies the spirit of community and helps ensure that children and families have access to the stability, care, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Your participation helps make this work possible. Purchase a ticket, host a table, become a sponsor, or make a donation to help illuminate what is possible for Illinois children and families.

Together, we can help every child experience the promise of a bright future with a forever family.

Gala Committee

Don Biernacki
Executive Vice President of Construction,
Related Midwest

Theodore Weldon
Co-Founder and Principal, Tree Street Group

Rama Dandamudi MD
Founder & CEO, Dandamudi's Inc.

Jonah M. Siegellak
Principal, Millennium Advisors

Joe Skender
Chairman Emeritus, Skender

Phaedra Leslie
Vice President of Diversity, Workforce Development,
and Community Engagement, ALL Construction Group

Jim Wolfe
Founder, Law Office of James E. Wolfe, P.C. 

Board of Directors

Theodore Weldon
Co-Founder and Principal, Tree Street Group

John Trotta
Senior Vice President/Midwest District Leader, WSP USA

Don Biernacki
Executive Vice President of Construction, 
Related Midwest

Jeff Riemer
Executive Vice President, Lendlease, Retired

Christina Abbott
Audit Managing Director, KPMG LLP

Angelica Alfaro
Founder & CEO, Alfaro Strategies

Melissa Angelucci
Vice President/Partner, Synnov Group

Ian Burns
Vice President - Assistant General Counsel, 
Wintrust Financial Corporation

Mary Patricia Burns
President, Burke Burns & Pinelli, Ltd.

Rama Dandamudi MD
Founder & CEO, Dandamudi's Inc.

Jaclyn Jackson
Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer,
National Equity Fund

Phaedra Leslie
Vice President of Diversity, Workforce Development,
and Community Engagement, ALL Construction Group

Devin Rowland
President/Principal, KMA Property Management Services

Jonah Siegellak
Principal, Millennium Advisors

Patricia Thomas
Senior Director of Compliance, IQVIA

Jocelyn C. McCoy
Assistant General Counsel, ComEd