Pillars Ball Raises $292K for Local Mental Health and Social Services

Submitted by Pillars.

La Grange, IL - In a most important year for Pillars, 2016 marks the 10th anniversary of the merger that created the nonprofit, as well as its 10th annual Ball. Thus, it was only fitting that the 2016 Ball was equally impactful, raising $50,000 more than last year.

Dressed in black tie attire, 530 people showed up Jan. 30 to support area mental health and social services. As a nonprofit, Pillars relies on grants and fundraising to meet the needs of residents in Chicago’s western and southwestern suburbs.

The 2016 Pillars Ball, the agency’s largest fundraising event, offers a way for individuals to provide that much-needed financial support, while also enjoying a fun night out to network with local community members and learn more about the organization.

In addition to 530 attendees, 32 area businesses and community leaders stepped up to sponsor the event and another 75 people served as volunteers. The gala raised $50,000 more than last year, bringing the total contributions to $292,000 to support Pillars’ mission.

“Pillars is necessary in our communities. The services we provide offer life sustaining support and hope to our neighbors and friends right here in our own community,” says Ann C. Schreiner, AM, LCSW, president and CEO of Pillars. “As we strive to reduce the barriers often encountered when seeking help, all of our supporters, donors, volunteers and advocates are the most important resources for someone in need: they know Pillars can help.”

“The generosity and passion from our attendees and donors at this event was unmatched, as we raised a significant and inspiring amount of donations this year. We are so grateful for their support of our efforts to build healthier communities by making connections and changing lives. This is a great step forward in 2016.”

This year’s theme was “Glitz, Glam, and Generosity.” A live auction and raffle offered opportunities to give back and win something to take home, but it was the paddle raise that brought the most excitement. After a video featuring a conversation between clients, staff, board and community members on Pillars’ impact on our community, guests rallied around the fundraising goal. One by one, they raised their paddles to offer a donation.

To view all photos from the Ball and to watch the client video, visit pillarscommunity.org.