CHICAGO, IL Chicago House, the first organization in the Midwest to provide housing and support for people living with HIV and AIDS, is excited to celebrate its 31st Annual Spring Brunch and Fashion Show at the Harold Washington Library! On Sunday, May 7th, from 12 3:30 p.m., join Chicago House for "Unity on the Runway," presented and hosted by co-chairs Chris and Derek Bagley. "We want our guests to feel inspired and unified as a community," state Chris and Derek Bagley simultaneously. "Our theme plays with current fashion trends how they are making more than just a statement on the runway," says Executive Producer Quenten Schumacher. "Guests can expect this event to be powerful, authentic, colorful and dramatic!"
Held in the beautiful Winter Garden Ballroom at Chicago's Harold Washington Library, the brunch features a three-course meal, entertainment and fashion show headlined by local Chicago boutiques and design studios and nationally recognized designers.
"With the theme this year of "Unity on the Runway" - we will kick off spring brilliantly!" says Chicago House CEO Scott Ammarell. Kate Fenner-Lux, Chief Development Officer, shares the sentiment and adds, "This year's fashion show highlights how fashion trends can be a powerful voice."
With some 350 expected attendees, guests will enjoy a three-course gourmet brunch by Inspired Catering, sip on cocktails by Buzzbox Cocktails, and wine and champagne by LKH Management and bid on fantastic live auction items including a South African Safari and a stay in a Tuscan Villa with airfares provided by Orbitz! Guests can also purchase flowers at the one-of-a-kind "Flower Market," a favorite attendee pastime at this event. The market will feature a variety of over 60+ fresh floral arrangements from different local floral designers, all sold to benefit Chicago House.
Media Personality, Blogger and Host of Candid Candace TV, Candace Jordan will emcee the day including the runway show that will headline spring 2017 looks from local boutiques CRAM, soundoff design and J-Toor, plus feature a showcase of work from upcoming costume designer Raul Redaggio. The organization will also present its annual Spirit Award to Ray Lechner, Ph.D., Superintendent, Wilmette Public Schools, District 39. Ray served for many years on Chicago House's board and as board chair. A tireless ambassador for Chicago House and its mission, he continues to be an advocate of our work. We are thrilled to present him with the Spirit Award honoring his dedication. Special thanks to our sponsors: The Chris and Derek Bagley Family Foundation, Legacy Sponsor ConAgra Brands, and other sponsors including: Aon, Jensen & Associates, MB Financial and Room & Board.
About Chicago House
Founded in 1985 at the height of the AIDS crisis, Chicago House has repeatedly demonstrated innovation and expansion to serve community members impacted by HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ marginalization. Today Chicago House provides permanent housing and supportive services to men, women and children living with HIV and AIDS. The agency provides employment services through the first, and largest, program in the Midwest to specialize in working with LGBTQ population who are unemployed and underemployed, as well as, Health, Outreach, Prevention and Education through the HOPE program. Chicago House's newest program, TransLife Care provides TransWorks, an employment support program, TransHousing, scattered site housing for transgender persons, TransLegal legal services, TransHealth, linkage to culturally-competent healthcare and social services and TransSafe, which offer safe drop-in spaces to access all "TLC" services. The agency's wraparound services include community case management, HIV prevention, medical adherence and free, anonymous rapid HIV testing.
Tickets are $200 for General Admission ( table of 10/$2000 ), $250 for Preferred ( table of 10/$2500 ) and $300 for a front row Runway seat ( table of 10/$3000 ). The event will be held in the Winter Garden Ballroom, 400 South State Street at the Harold Washington Library Center. For tickets or more information, contact Alejandro Hernandez at 773.248.5200 ( ext. 209 ) or visit www.chicagohouse.org .