2025 Annual Gala

We invite you to join us for Casa Central’s 2025 Annual Gala, Leading with Purpose: Women Inspiring Change — an evening dedicated to celebrating impact, honoring visionary leaders, and supporting life-changing programs that empower individuals and families throughout Chicago.

Join Us and Make a Meaningful Difference

All proceeds from the Annual Gala will benefit the hundreds of children, adults and families we serve each day. Casa Central needs your support to continue delivering the vital services that so many in our community depend on. From early childhood education and after-school programs to violence prevention, housing support, and care for older adults, our services are lifelines—helping people not only survive but thrive.

Our Gala Theme: Leading with Purpose: Women Inspiring Change

This year, we celebrate the incredible women who lead with purpose and transform lives through compassion, advocacy, and action. These women embody the heart of Casa Central’s mission and inspire a more equitable and just future for all.

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Women Leading with Purpose

The Honorable Susana A. Mendoza, Illinois State Comptroller and our evening’s keynote speaker. As Illinois’ highest-ranking Hispanic statewide elected official, Comptroller Mendoza is a trailblazer in public service. Her leadership in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and equity has had a lasting impact on families across the state.

Celena Sarillo, Executive Director of Start Early Illinois, will receive Casa Central’s highest honor, the Pastora San Juan Cafferty Award. A tireless advocate for children and families, Ms. Sarillo has dedicated her career to strengthening communities through education, social services, and public policy.

Maria Castro, Founder of Love Purse and Regional External Affairs Manager at Comcast, will be honored with our Community Impact Award for her dedication to supporting women in crisis and empowering communities through compassionate outreach and practical resources.

Casa Central is honored to recognize the Elizabeth Morse Genius Charitable Trust with our 2025 Philanthropic Partner Award. James L. Alexander, Co-trustee of the Trust, will accept the award on its behalf at our Annual Gala.

A dedicated supporter since 1998, the Trust has generously funded programs across Casa Central’s Older Adult Services, Individuals & Families, and Children & Youth Services. Through its unwavering support, the Elizabeth Morse Genius Charitable Trust has helped advance efforts that promote dignity, self-sufficiency, and well-being for those we serve.

We are proud to celebrate this long-standing partnership and shared commitment to uplifting communities across Chicago.

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Be a Sponsor. Be a Changemaker.

Your sponsorship of Casa Central’s Annual Gala will help ensure we can continue providing the essential programs that empower children, families, and older adults every day.

Join us as a sponsor and be part of an evening that uplifts lives and honors women who are leading with purpose. Proceeds from the gala directly benefit the children, adults, and families who rely on Casa Central’s services.

Together, we can create positive change and build a stronger, more vibrant Chicago.

Sponsor the Gala and Make a Payment Here

For more information, please contact Maggie Shiflett, Director of Advancement, mshiflett@casacentral.org or Laura Reilly, Vice President of Advancement, lreilly@casacentral.org.