a celebration of energy, creativity, and courage

2025 Awards

who

You, your friends, Bright Promises’ youth council, board of directors, and community of Chicagoland change-makers dressed in business-smart attire with a touch of orange.

what

An evening of celebration for our 2025 award nominees and 2026 grantee cohort. Enjoy networking and a plated dinner with open bar and ample vegetarian options.

when & where

October 22, 2025, 5–9pm
Wildman BT: 3020 W Carroll Ave.
Chicago, IL 60612

Image courtesy Stephen Serio Photography

celebrate our honorees

Join us for an inspiring evening as we honor three exceptional community members who have dedicated themselves to making a positive impact on the lives of Chicago’s children and youth. Witness their incredible stories of compassion and commitment, and celebrate their remarkable contributions to creating a brighter future for our community's youngest members.

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our past award recipients
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youth innovation showcase

Discover the future of community leadership at the Youth Innovation Showcase during the 2025 Bright Promises Awards. Youth leaders from across Chicagoland will present interactive displays of their creative solutions to pressing issues in their neighborhoods—from mental health to equity and safety.

Guests will have the chance to engage directly with these young changemakers, learn from their bold ideas, and be inspired by the next generation driving real impact. Your support helps amplify their voices and turn their visions into lasting change.

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Save Your Spot
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Image courtesy Stephen Serio Photography

enjoy an iconic event space

The historic Wildman Boiler & Tank building is a spacious and beautiful 12,000 SF industrial loft supporting local events, creators, and artists of all kinds. Easily accessible from downtown Chicago and all Chicagoland suburbs, it’s the perfect space for an evening of networking and celebration.

Arrival for the event is easy with complimentary valet, as well as ample nearby street parking.

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Get Directions
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thank you to our host committee!

Bryan Stokes - Robert R. McCormick Foundation
Dorri McWhorter - Executive’s Club of Chicago
Dorri McWhorter - Executive’s Club of Chicago
Peggy & Paul Bodine
Peggy & Paul Bodine
Peggy & Paul Bodine
Susan Devlin - Discover Financial Services
Andrea Durbin-Odom - Illinois Collaboration on Youth
Sonny Garg - Center for Expanding Leadership Opportunity
Francia Harrington - President, Harrington Foundation
Colleen Harvey - Social Impact Consultant
Iris Krieg - Founder and Principal, Iris Krieg & Associates
Bela Mote - Carole Robertson Learning Center
Eric Wilkerson - WiCo Strategies
Dorri McWhorter - Executive’s Club of Chicago


Image courtesy Gads Hill Center

evening schedule

5:00pm: Youth Innovation Showcase & Reception
featuring passed appetizers, food stations, and open bar
7:00pm: 2026 Awards Presentation
8:00pm: Afterparty & Networking

make a difference

100% of every dollar donated goes directly to high-quality community programs supporting the social, emotional, and mental health of over 11,000 Chicagoland children and youth. Want to show your support beyond attendance? Consider making your impact felt by becoming a Bright Promises sponsor!

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Become a Sponsor
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Image courtesy Gads Hill Center