On Saturday, March 2, more than 545 donors, guests and volunteers gathered at the Sheraton Lisle Naperville for the 43rd Annual Little Friends Benefit Auction. On an outstanding evening of friendship, advocacy and support, Little Friends is pleased to announce that over $530,000 was raised, a 38% increase over last year, which will continue to ensure that our more than 800 clients lead fulfilling lives in our community – regardless of challenge.
The funds raised were the result of an outpouring of support from generous business sponsors and an incredible live auction featuring exclusive dining, experiences, and travel packages. The signature Fund-a Need portion of the evening followed an emotional appeal by former client, Emily Erdmann, who was a transition student at the agency’s Bridge High School and Spectrum Vocational Services. After finding her calling as a teacher through her time at Little Friends, Emily captivated the audience when she stated, “Knowing now that being a teacher is hard work, I have proved to myself I can do anything I set my mind to.”
“This past Saturday evening was truly electric. The energy in the room and support shown to Little Friends goes beyond words,” states President and CEO, Mike Briggs. “We couldn’t be more appreciative of this record donation and truly thank all those who have helped the organization!”
Another highlight of the evening came with the presentation of the Dottee Krejci Memorial Award for Distinguished Service to its second recipient, Maul Paving. Chris and Eric Maul were honored for their organization’s commitment to Little Friends through service and leadership helping our agency empower those with special challenges, and their families, to live, learn, work, and thrive in the community.
Thank you to all that attended the 43rd Annual Benefit Auction – and to our generous community partners, who sponsored this year’s event: ABM Business & Industry, Advantage Capital, Ashland Addison Floral, Blooming Color, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Boughton Materials Inc., Busey Bank, CBRE, Chico and Nunes, PC, Continental Motors of Naperville, Dean’s Clothing, DFS, Gerald Auto Group, Global Vision Technologies, Humbert Insurance, IBEW Local Union 701, JC Anderson, john greene Realtor, Kirkland Ellis LLP, Ledebuhr Wealth Management, Lisle Savings Bank, Matsock Insurance,
Meson Sabika, Naperville Running Company, Phillip’s Flowers, Road Builder Charities, S&J Construction , Spartan Chemical Company, VAI’s Italian Inspired Kitchen+Bar.
Guests were left inspired by the work of Little Friends, as our speaker Emily so confidently said, “Now I know I could achieve any goals no matter what my disability is.”
