Event co-chairs Kim Frezados, Melissa Canning and Maggie Pflanz. (Gosia Matuszewska Photography)
WINGS raised a record $1.2 million to support domestic violence survivors at its 26th annual Purple Tie Ball held at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. More than 700 guests attended the grand masquerade-themed evening, which celebrated the organization’s work while raising critical funds for housing, counseling and other services for survivors and their families.
Natalie Kroft, Jody Ginger, Atour Sargon, Kim Frezados and Charla Whiteley. (Gosia Matuszewska Photography)
Held on Oct. 3 in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Purple Tie Ball featured a cocktail reception, dinner, live entertainment by Hello Weekend and the presentation of the prestigious David K. Hill Award to an inspirational WINGS graduate.
Guests also had the opportunity to bid on an array of exclusive experiences during the live auction, including exotic trips, premium sports tickets and concert packages, with proceeds benefiting WINGS’ mission to end domestic violence.
The record-breaking total marks the most money raised in the event’s 26-year history, providing vital support at a particularly important time for the organization. Event co-chairs were Kim Frezados, Melissa Canning and Maggie Pflanz.
Dawn and Matt Baumann. (Gosia Matuszewska Photography)
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“We are thrilled that this year’s Purple Tie Ball raised the most funds in the event’s 26-year history,” said Rebecca Darr, WINGS president and CEO. “That support comes at a critical time, as a government grant that funded several counseling positions at our Foglia Family Resource Center has ended. Our community’s support means so much and allows us to say ‘yes’ to adult and child survivors of domestic violence seeking counseling, resources and support.”
With more than 40 years of experience, WINGS Program, Inc. is the largest domestic violence agency in Illinois. The organization provides housing, integrated services, education and advocacy, with programs designed to meet the needs of survivors across ages, ethnicities and gender identities.
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Its work includes safe housing, community-based counseling and mentoring programs that help survivors rebuild their lives. To date, WINGS has provided more than one million nights of safe housing, along with services intended to help individuals and families move toward safety and independence.
The Purple Tie Ball's record fundraising achievement will help sustain these services as survivors continue to seek the support and resources they need to move forward.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence can call the WINGS 24-hour hotline at 847-221-5680. For more information, visit www.wingsprogram.com.
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