Salt & Light Coalition celebrates community support at Radiate Gala

Chicago’s historic Drake Hotel was the setting for the Salt & Light Coalition’s Radiate Gala on Sept. 27, an evening that combined inspiration, art and impact to support Illinois women affected by human trafficking. The event raised $1.057 million, exceeding the organization’s $1 million goal, to fund trauma-informed healing and workforce development programs for survivors.

Emmy Award-winning journalist Audrina Sinclair emceed the evening, which featured survivor storytelling, a dance performance by The Joffrey Ballet choreographed by Edson Barbosa, and a special musical quartet of original compositions by Alex Groesh. Guests also heard from participants in Salt & Light’s six-month empowerment program, highlighting the organization’s success in guiding survivors toward education, employment and independence.

Among those in attendance were founder and CEO Dr. Izabel Olson, board members, supporters from Chicago’s philanthropic and hospitality communities and Grammy nominee SOFI TUKKER. “Our supporters didn't just donate, they took a stand to champion transformative programs that deliver hope, skills and opportunity directly to the women we serve,” Olson said.

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Since 2017, Salt & Light Coalition has helped more than 350 survivors through its holistic program, with 82% of graduates securing full-time employment or pursuing higher education and entrepreneurship. The gala was made possible by lead sponsors including Webster Capital, Hyatt, Goya, Catalytic Wealth and SPINS, whose support ensures more women can move from surviving to thriving.

(For more information, visit www.saltandlightcoalition.com)