Clancy's Sallyfest Helps Local Families Hit By Hard Times

OAK LAWN, IL — For years, Sally Foy tirelessly raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Make A Wish Illinois, an organization that fulfills the wishes of children facing cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, until she succumbed to cancer herself in 2020.

A few years later, the Mount Greenwood woman’s circle of loyal friends decided to put the band back together by carrying on with a major fundraiser in her name.

“Sally’s partner, Al Bruce, built both of my bars,” said Kevin O’Kennedy, owner of Clancy’s on 95th Irish Tavern and Clancy’s Irish Pizza Pub. “All I can do is thoughts and prayers, but then I thought, ‘I have two businesses. I can raise money.’”

The 2025 Sallyfest will be held Sept. 13 at Clancy’s on 95th, 5763 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn. Clancy’s largest fundraiser in honor of Sally Foy. Sallyfest features a pig roast, all-star music, raffles, split the pot and more. The event starts at 3 p.m. and there is a limited open bar from 3 to 7 p.m.

Clancy’s is continuing Foy’s mission by raising funds for local families experiencing difficulties, such as cancer or other medical struggles, loss of a family member through accident or death, or other tragedies. Past beneficiaries have included the son of the late Chicago Police Officer Patsy Swank (2022), the Ryan Sisters (2023) and Frank "the Tank" Brazel, Bridgette Oliver and Jessica Tranowski (2024).

This year’s beneficiaries are 12-year-old Patrick Juarez, of Evergreen Park, and the family of Alsip-resident Juli Radz.

Patrick Juarez attends Most Holy Redeemer School. His family describes him as strong, caring and extremely athletic. Last year, Patrick was diagnosed with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of pediatric cancer. He began treatment right away. Patrick is back at school four days a week.

Juli Radz, of Alsip, is a mother of nine children, seven who are still living at home. Radz was diagnosed with three different types of cancer – breast, thyroid and kidney. Radz has tried going back to work since June, but is not yet able to last a full day. Proceeds will help Radz and her children with needed home repairs and living expenses.

“We hope to raise enough money to buy her new roof,” O’Kennedy added.

O’Kennedy has lined up four musical acts for the benefit, including:

• Billy Gray (3 p.m.)
• Katie Sullivan (4 p.m.)
• Liam Durkin (5 p.m.)
• AA and the Relapse (6 p.m.)

Bad Hand will perform at the after-party, starting at 8 p.m.

Advance tickets are $30, or $40 at the door. The after-party is $15. Tickets can be

“We’re asking for donations for baskets, in-kind donations, gift cards and corporate sponsored,” O’Kennedy said.

Individual and family sponsorships are available for $100 and $350, respectively. Also sought is a beer tent sponsor ($500) and stage sponsor ($1,000).

Premium sponsorship opportunities include the silver level for $500; star level for $1,000; blue, $5,000; and Gold, $10,000. All sponsors will receive online and onsite recognition. Sallyfest Foundation is a 501(c) 3 and donations are tax-deductible.

And, you can never have too many raffle baskets. Individuals, businesses and organizations can drop off basket items and gift cards at Clancy’s Irish Pizza Pub, 4624 W. 103rd St. (Jewel-anchored shopping center), or Clancy’s on 95th, 5763 W. 95th St. Both are located in Oak Lawn.

For more information about Sallyfest ‘25, to purchase tickets or learn more about sponsorships, visit Sallyfest Foundation.