After years of cancellations as a result of the pandemic, two of Little City’s premier events had incredibly successful returns with the Annual Gala and LCI Golf Classic bringing hundreds of supporters together to support people with developmental disabilities.
The Gala returned for the first time since 2019 on May 14th at the Drake Hotel in Chicago as Little City supporters gathered for a night of fundraising and celebration to raise $395,000 in support of the more than 1,100 people with developmental disabilities receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
The night was also a special recognition of Howard Bell, who was posthumously honored with the Vernon Carson Luminary Award for his lifetime of support at Little City and pioneering efforts in helping the agency grow into what it is today.
Howard first came to Little City in 1964 after his daughter, Andy, had been diagnosed with a developmental disability. Andy is now one of Little City’s longest tenured residents and has thrived over the last 50+ years, becoming an acclaimed artist, gold medalist Special Olympian and retiring from a successful work career in community-based employment.
Howard’s legacy continues to live on through the passionate support of his daughter Julie, who currently serves on the Little City Board of Directors and accepted the award in her father’s honor.
Additionally, Little City honored Motorola Solutions and its Foundation with the first ever Corporate Partner of the Year Award for their dedication to Little City’s mission.
That commitment was on full display in 2021 as Motorola Solutions and its Foundation made 24 donations including a gift that improved the way Little City communicates and operates with a radio system donation valued at over $110,000.
But their partnership does not end in donations. Motorola executives Chad Werkema and Dale Rublaitus serve on the Little City Board of Directors, and their staff have visited campus on countless occasions to dedicate their time and talent through volunteerism.
The impact of Little City’s supporters continued to be celebrated at the annual LCI Golf Classic, which took place on June 20th at Twin Orchard Country Club in Long Grove. The event was one of the highest attended in recent history, with more than 260 golfers coming together to help raise an astounding $400,000 for Little City.
The event also celebrated the incredible contributions of Wendy and Irwin Steinberg who were honored with the 2022 Morrie Kellman Humanitarian Award. They have not only helped grow the event to new heights, but have made crucial investments to improve the lives of those at Little City.
As Little City ambassadors, the Steinbergs have introduced countless people to Little City through the event and have used their network and connections to help people with developmental disabilities. Their passion has been especially impactful for children, including funding a therapeutic playground that is still enjoyed by the kids today.
Little City wants to thank everyone for making these historical events more successful than ever!
Save the Date!
Annual Dinner Gala: April 22, 2023 at The Palmer House | honoring Shawn Jeffers
LCI Golf Classic: June 19, 2023 at Twin Orchard Country Club | honoring Housh Khoshbin
