Join us for a night of community, connection, and impact.

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) invites you to the 6th Annual Gather for Good celebration on Friday, September 26 at 6:30 PM, hosted at Binny’s Beverage Depot, 153 Skokie Valley Highway, in Highland Park.

Gather for Good is a joyful community tradition that brings neighbors and friends together to celebrate what makes our community so special. As HPCF’s only fundraising event of the year, the night plays a critical role in advancing the Foundation’s mission of addressing unmet needs and expanding opportunities for all Highland Park and Highwood residents.

“This event is the culmination of the efforts of many individuals within HPCF and throughout the broader community who contribute their time, energy, and resources to make it a success,” said Caroline Mead, Gather for Good Co-Chair. “From our event committee, staff, and volunteers to our generous corporate and individual sponsors, the businesses that donate fantastic raffle and silent auction prizes, and the many restaurants who support us—it’s a true community effort that continues to grow each year.”

And that growth matters.

This year, HPCF received a record-setting volume of annual grant proposals, reflecting the rising demand for critical services in Highland Park and Highwood. Funds raised through Gather for Good help the Foundation support as many impactful programs as possible—serving children, families, and adults across our community.

“We saw a significant increase in the total amount of funding requested this year—a reflection of the growing and evolving needs in our community,” said Sofia Alvarez, Gather for Good Co-Chair. “The funds raised from this event—with everyone’s assistance, dedication, and generosity—will allow us to award critical support to address those needs.”

Tastes of the Town: A Culinary Celebration

Tastes of the Town is back — bigger, better, and more delicious than ever — with our largest lineup yet: 30 local restaurants and beverage partners showcasing the incredible culinary offerings in our community. Guests will enjoy a wonderful tasting experience while mingling with neighbors and supporting a vital cause.

The Foundation Board extends heartfelt thanks in advance to: 28 Mile Distilling, Abigail’s, Ami. Jerusalem Street Food, Backyard Grill, BellaRu Catering, Bent Fork Bakery, Binny’s Beverage Depot, Bluegrass, Buffo’s, Carol’s Cookies, Clucker’s Charcoal Chicken, Flara Bakery, Fluffy Bunny, Goodstuff Eats, Indus Progressive Indian, Judy’s Pizza, La Plancha Loca, La Taquiza, Long Grove Confectionery Co., Love That Spice, Michael’s Grill & Salad Bar, Mil Colibris, Once Upon A Bagel, Pixca, Sally’s Nuts, Tamales…A Mexican Joint, The Chunky Scone, The Claim Company, Viaggio – Highland Park, and Yummy Bowl, with additional participants still being confirmed!

HPCF is especially grateful to Maya Rotman-Zaid, founder of BellaRu Catering, for pouring her heart into coordinating the food and drinks for this year’s event, entirely pro bono. BellaRu has been part of our community since 2017 and, since 2020, has distributed more than 7 million pounds of food to help neighbors in need.

“We’re thrilled to see so many restaurants participate in this event,” Maya said. “It’s not just about food—it’s about connection. We love getting to know people in our community and seeing them connect with each other.”

That spirit of connection and generosity is shared by all our Restaurant Sponsors, and we are deeply grateful for their generous donations of time, energy, resources, and, of course, incredible food.

“We’ve been part of Gather for Good for years now,” noted Jeff Gorbena, owner of Tamales… A Mexican Joint. “I’ve been a part of the community since I was ten years old, and I think it’s a great event. We like to give back and support Highland Park and Highwood because the community supports us,” he added.

“HPCF is one of my favorite organizations to support because it is so directly impactful,” said Ryan Gamperl, owner of Michael’s Grill & Salad Bar. “They do so much that goes right back into our community. For me, it’s the best place to put our resources—supporting those who support us every day.”

Exciting Raffle & Auction Prizes

In addition to wonderful food and drinks, Gather for Good includes a silent auction and raffle with many exciting individual and bundled prizes valued at $1,000 or more. Prizes include:

• A Highland Park Fire Department ride to school
• A Highland Park Police Department ride to school or station tour, or adult ride-along
• Sports and entertainment tickets
• Fine jewelry and dining experiences
• Health and wellness services
• Special event and vacation packages
• Artistic, recreational, and photography offerings
• And much more, donated by over 70 generous local businesses.

Community Support Makes It Possible

As of our print deadline, more than 150 individuals and businesses have already committed to sponsorships, recognizing the difference their support makes for residents throughout the Highland Park-Highwood community. The Foundation looks forward to welcoming even more in the coming weeks to amplify the event’s success and all the good that flows from it.

Binny’s Beverage Depot—a long-standing, family-owned local business—is proud to host HPCF’s annual fundraiser once again. “We love being part of this event,” said Keith Youngmann, North District Sales Specialist. “It’s a great way to bring the community together and give back in a meaningful way.”

Let’s Gather for Good

Gather for Good is a night to come together, learn about HPCF’s impact, and help further the Foundation’s goal of improving the quality of life for all residents.

Whether you’re coming for the food, the fun, or the fundraising, it’s a night not to miss! To buy event or raffle tickets, donate, or become a sponsor, visit hpcfil.org/events/gather-for-good!

Let’s gather. Let’s give. Let’s strengthen our community.

Every community has neighbors who need a helping hand. Sometimes it’s a family searching for affordable housing. Sometimes it’s a parent struggling to afford diapers. Sometimes it’s a young person navigating anxiety or trauma. Other times, it’s someone facing an unexpected financial crisis who simply needs the flexibility to decide how they can best use financial assistance made available to them to address their most urgent needs.

Through its Human Services grant category, Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) invests in organizations addressing those everyday needs, helping build a healthier, stronger, and more resilient Highland Park and Highwood. “It’s at the center of what we do,” said Bonnie Mervis, HPCF Board Member. “There’s nothing more important than helping neighbors when they need it most.”

For David Reich, HPCF Board Member and Co-Chair of the Grants Committee, the category reflects the Foundation’s commitment to supporting people at every stage of life. “Our community is very diverse, and the needs are significant,” David said. “We have organizations addressing very different needs — from children to seniors, from mental health to food insecurity. It’s important that we’re able to support all of them.” That broad approach is reflected in HPCF’s Human Services grantees, each tackling a different challenge while sharing the same goal: helping neighbors thrive.

One of those organizations is Housing Opportunity Development Corporation (HODC), which believes that stable housing creates opportunities far beyond having a roof overhead. “HODC builds and manages quality affordable housing, really focusing on creating opportunities for people to not only live, but also thrive,” said Laura Youngberg, Director of Fundraising. “Stable housing improves people’s health, employment opportunities, family relationships, community connections, and overall quality of life.”

HODC currently owns or manages 36 affordable housing developments throughout Chicago’s northern suburbs, including Highland Park. This year’s HPCF grant supports the organization’s partnership with Collaborative Community Housing Initiative (CCHI) on Highland Park Commons, an innovative affordable homeownership model for adults with disabilities.

Laura said HODC is contributing its expertise in affordable housing development, financing, and construction to help bring the project to life while creating a model that could benefit other communities in the future.

Bonnie noted that affordable housing remains an essential need, even in communities often perceived as affluent. “This community has a reputation for being very affluent, but it isn’t true across the board,” Bonnie said. “Helping people find affordable housing gives families housing security instead of worrying every month whether they’ll be able to stay in their homes.”

Another grantee is Keeping Families Covered, which addresses needs that many people don’t realize exist. Diapers, period products, and incontinence supplies are generally not covered by state or federal assistance programs, leaving many families to choose between purchasing essential hygiene products and paying for other necessities.

Founded in 2010 by Ann Marie Mathis, Keeping Families Covered has grown from a grassroots effort in her basement into one of northern Illinois’ largest hygiene banks, serving over 30,000 families each year. “One in two families struggle with diaper need, one in four individuals experience period poverty, and incontinence is the fastest growing absorbent hygiene issue among adults, ” Ann Marie said. “Our program is not just about removing barriers to basic hygiene. It’s about dignity and providing people with what they need to fully participate in daily life.”

HPCF’s grant helps support the organization’s mobile pantry program in Highland Park and Highwood, where families can access hygiene products alongside food and other community resources. Ann Marie said many of the families they serve are working but still struggle to make ends meet and Keeping Families Covered helps to fill the gap. “People shouldn’t have to decide between buying diapers and buying food or paying their utility bills,” she said.

To date, Keeping Families Covered has distributed more than 14 million essential hygiene products. “These are things that people don’t always think about,” Ann Marie said. “The cost of diapers and hygiene supplies is a tremendous burden for those with limited income. Every day, we help families get what they shouldn’t have to go without. We envision a community where every family has what they need to live with health and dignity—no matter their age, income, or circumstances.”

Mental health is another growing need throughout the community. For nearly 55 years, OMNI Youth Services has provided counseling, prevention programs, and crisis intervention for children, teens, adults, and families. “We wanted to create a place for everyone,” said Chrissy Trilling, CFRE, Chief Development & Marketing Officer. “No matter your background or ability to pay, we never want finances to be a barrier to receiving support.”

Today, OMNI serves more than 75,000 people annually and continues to see increasing numbers of youth struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and school avoidance. Chrissy said those challenges intensified following COVID-19 and the Highland Park shooting. This year’s HPCF grant supports a collaborative youth program in Highwood involving OMNI Youth Services, Glenn’s Friends, and the Highwood Public Library, providing a safe, welcoming space where young people can receive support and build connections.

“We’re seeing positive impact every day,” Chrissy said. “There are amazing organizations working together to meet these mental health needs, and support for these programs truly makes a difference.”

Bonnie, a retired school social worker, said investing in youth mental health benefits the entire community. “When you can help children when they’re young, you end up with healthy, productive adults,” Bonnie said. “I’m a great believer in therapy and support services for families going through crises.”

The Foundation also supports Direct Giving Lab, which takes a different approach to helping families by providing direct cash assistance. Rather than limiting how funds can be used, the organization trusts recipients to determine what will make the greatest difference in their own lives.

David said that flexibility allows families to address their most pressing needs, whether that’s housing, transportation, medical expenses, or another unexpected hardship. “It gives individuals the ability to use those funds in the way they deem most important,” he said. “There’s very little interference with their choices, and they can use the assistance where it will have the greatest impact.”

Bonnie agreed that direct financial assistance can be transformational for families experiencing temporary hardship. “There are times when people desperately need money,” she said. “Helping families through a financial crisis can give them the opportunity to get back on their feet.”

Although each organization serves the community in a different way, together they illustrate the purpose behind HPCF’s Human Services grant category: investing in organizations that meet people where they are and provide the support they need to move forward.

“It’s such a fundamental part of what we do,” David said. “We’re entrusted with community resources, and our job is to make sure those funds go to organizations doing amazing work in the most impactful way possible.” For Bonnie, the Foundation’s work is ultimately about creating a stronger community for everyone. “I was awed by the number of agencies and the variety of programs the Foundation supports,” she said. “It all adds up to making this a more caring community — one that truly supports its residents.”

Through its annual grants program, Highland Park Community Foundation invests in nonprofit organizations that strengthen the quality of life for residents of Highland Park and Highwood. By supporting programs that address essential needs — from housing and mental health to hygiene insecurity and financial stability — the Foundation helps ensure that neighbors facing challenges have access to the resources and support they need. Together with its nonprofit partners, HPCF continues to build a stronger, more connected community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) is pleased to recognize Mirela Vesa as the 2023 recipient of the HPCF Golden Apple Award! The HPCF, along with a local family foundation, initiated the annual award in 2010 to recognize and honor outstanding teachers in Highland Park’s public schools who have completed a minimum of four full years of teaching. The award rotates among the elementary, middle school, and high school levels of teaching. This year, nominations were accepted for teachers who work full-time in pre-K through 5th grade classrooms.

“Each year, a Selection Committee comprised of exemplary current and retired educators, administrators, and former award recipients evaluates a large number of applications and completes a full day of observations for each of the final three candidates. The recipient is chosen based on content knowledge, instruction, staff and student interaction, and contribution to school and community,” said Sara Sher, Chair of the HPCF Golden Apple Committee. After receiving many excellent nominations and completing a rigorous review process, Mirela Vesa was chosen as this year’s recipient. Rachel Joseph and Meredith Rossman were selected as this year’s semi-finalists.

L-R: HPCF Board Member Jean Meadows, HPCFGA Recipient Mirela Vesa, HPCFGA Committee Chair Sara Sher

Mirela Vesa, the 2023 HPCF Golden Apple honoree, teaches a pre-K self-contained special education individualized learning program classroom. Her extensive knowledge of early childhood education and expertise in special education allow her to support the variety of needs, strengths, and talents that exist in her classroom. Yet, they are only part of what helps her students reach their full potential. Mirela’s devotion to her students ensures that each child’s strengths and interests are supported and the needs of each are addressed. She also forms significant and meaningful relationships with them. Mirela meets their various academic, emotional, linguistic, and social needs, pretty much doing the job of two teachers by having to plan for twice as many diverse learners as is typical. With Mirela, though, it’s not a job, it’s a calling. She teaches her students to celebrate their similarities and differences, creating an empathetic classroom environment modeled after her own caring nature. The impact she has on those in her classroom is reflected in remarks made by the students’ parents. Mirela is a “magical unicorn kind of person” noted one parent, a “superhero/superhuman,” noted another, when reflecting on what sets her apart as an educator

Rachel Joseph teaches kindergarten at Braeside Elementary School, where she brings extraordinary energy to the classroom. Rachel remembers being a student who did well in school, thanks to the teachers who took the initiative to get to really know her as a person, and views herself as “paying it forward” with her own teaching. By empowering her students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, Rachel nurtures well-rounded students who strive to be their best selves and succeed in every aspect of their lives. She fosters her students’ strengths by recognizing and focusing on each student’s individual needs through her curriculum and connecting with her students in a personalized manner.

Meredith Rossman exemplifies what it means to be a role model for her fourth graders at Sherwood Elementary School. Beyond ensuring her classroom is a place that encourages and facilitates education, she makes sure it is an inclusive and safe space for all. She helps students become the best possible version of themselves and world changers. She also, as one administrator commented, “connects with kids in a way that can’t be taught.” The impact of her excellent character goes beyond the classroom. Her positivity is infectious and spreads to both her colleagues and students. From her command of the subject matter to the overall culture of learning she cultivates in her classroom., Meredith distinguishes herself as an educator.

HPCFGA Recipient Mirela Vesa

The HPCF Golden Apple Selection Committee met in early May to determine this year’s recipient and semi-finalists. Mirela learned she had been selected this year’s recipient at a surprise celebration on Tuesday, May 9, where she was presented with a $2,000 honorarium, $500 Apple Store gift card, and “Golden Apple” statue. Mirela Vesa, Rachel Joseph, and Meredith Rossman were all honored at the May 16th District 112 School Board meeting.

The HPCF plans to continue its annual recognition of exemplary teachers to demonstrate the importance of a strong education system in helping young people reach their full potential and in shaping lifelong learners. For information about past recipients visit hpcfil.org/awards/golden-apple-winners

Gather with friends and neighbors on Friday, September 20, at Highland Park Community Foundation’s fifth annual Gather for Good celebration! The event kicks off at 6:30 PM at Binny’s Beverage Depot, 153 Skokie Valley Highway, Highland Park. Funds raised from this festive event will further the Foundation’s mission of addressing unmet needs and expanding opportunities for all Highland Park and Highwood residents.

“The evening brings together many incredible individuals from our community to celebrate the support nonprofits provide for our Highland Park and Highwood residents. It’s a terrific night that helps to bolster the resources of the Foundation to enable it to support these amazing organizations. We are also building on the success of our past events and highlighting more of the wonderful local restaurants that truly make our community special, so we hope everyone who can possibly make it will join us!” said Caroline Mead, Gather for Good CoChair.

Gather for Good 2023

In addition to raising funds for the Foundation’s annual grants, the event raises awareness about the vital work of the Foundation and honors exceptional service to the community through the Jack Blane Community Service Award. “Jack Blane was a very honored board member, one of the founding members of the Foundation, a tremendous community service advocate, and a generous donor. The award honors him by celebrating an individual or organization we feel is following in his footsteps to better the lives of everyone in the community,” stated Laurie Levin, Foundation Board Chair.

This year’s Jack Blane Community Service Award recipient is Pablo Alvarez, a long-time Highland Park resident and Highland Park High School guidance counselor. Pablo’s commitment to his community extends far beyond the reach of the high school, although he has had a tremendous impact on students’ lives there. As a Moraine Township trustee, he works closely with families and other members of the community, helping to address needs in the areas of food insecurity and emergency relief. Pablo is also the Board Chair of Josselyn, where he helps to bring accessible mental health services to people throughout 300 different local communities. “Pablo was also a member of the Together Highland Park Unidos Committee, which was dedicated to providing funds for those impacted most by the Highland Park shooting and spent countless hours translating applications and ensuring that the process ran smoothly. He has a pure heart and a unique talent for bringing out the best in people. We’re excited and honored to recognize Pablo Alvarez as the recipient of this year’s Jack Blane Community Service Award,” added Laurie.

Pablo Alvarez

Foundation Board members are currently reviewing 68 annual grant applications totaling over $1.18 million in funding requests. All of the funds raised through Gather for Good will be used for the grants the Board will award this year to nonprofits that help community members in numerous ways. “Every year, we see an increase in the number of grant applicants, but we also see an increase in the dollar amount we can award. The funds raised from this event—with everyone’s assistance, dedication, and generosity—will allow us to award critical funds to address the needs of residents,” said Sofia Alvarez, Gather for Good Co-Chair, when reflecting on the importance of this annual event to both the Foundation and the community as a whole.

HPCF’s annual Gather for Good celebration is a fun night for mingling and coming together as a community. Close to 25 local establishments will provide delicious food and drinks – Tastes of the Town – highlighting the number of amazing culinary options available in our community. The Foundation Board thanks in advance: 28 Mile Distilling, Abigail’s, Backyard Grill, BellaRu Catering, Bent Fork Bakery, Binny’s Beverage Depot, Bluegrass, Bright Bowls, Carol’s Cookies, Central Café, Disotto, Indus, Judy’s Pizza, La Plancha Loca, Long Grove Confectionery Co., Michael’s Grill & Salad Bar, Once Upon A Bagel, Pixca, Sugar Coated, Tamales…A Mexican Joint, The Claim Company, The Chunky Scone, and Viaggio-Highland Park. With restaurants still signing on, there will be even more at the event!

The Foundation is exceptionally grateful for all the hard work and time Maya RotmanZaid, founder of BellaRu Catering, has dedicated to coordinating the food and beverages for this year’s event. BellaRu Catering was established in 2017 and, since 2020, has distributed – for free – over 7 million pounds of food to help community members in need. The Foundation is proud to partner with Maya on this venture, and Maya is excited to see the local establishments coming together to support Gather for Good. “The Highland Park and Highwood restaurant community has really banded together in this last year, and we all strongly believe in the Foundation and its mission—that’s why we’re here giving back to the community in whatever way we can!” said Maya.

Gather for Good 2023

In addition to all the wonderful food and drinks, Gather for Good includes a silent auction and raffle with exciting individual and bundled prizes, many with values of $1,000 and up, that will appeal to everyone! These range from a Highland Park Fire Department ride to school and a Highland Park Police Department adult ride-along to sports and entertainment tickets; jewelry; special event packages; artistic, recreational, and dining opportunities; health and wellness services; portrait photography; home goods; and more, donated by over 70 local businesses.

Over 100 individuals and businesses have committed to event sponsorships, recognizing the difference their support makes for residents throughout the Highland Park-Highwood community. The Foundation hopes to increase that number in the coming weeks to maximize the event’s success and the good that can be accomplished through giving where you live.

Gather for Good is a night for Highland Park and Highwood residents to gather, learn about the Foundation’s work and impact on the community, honor community members, and help further the Foundation’s goal of improving the quality of life for all. For more information about donations, tickets, and how to add you or your business’s name to our list of sponsors please visit hpcfil.org/events/gather-for-good!

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) is proud to welcome DINX Social Club as our newest Silver Level Corporate Champion! With deep roots in the community, DINX’s generous spirit perfectly reflects HPCF’s core belief and guiding principle: Give Where You Live.

“Corporate Champions support the community by helping to provide funding for the annual grants we award each October,” said David Israel, HPCF Treasurer. “What drives them is how deeply they care about Highland Park and Highwood—they live and breathe this community.”

Support from local businesses is essential to advancing HPCF’s mission of addressing unmet needs, and we are deeply grateful for DINX’s dedication and leadership, shown through their commitment as a Corporate Champion.

“The role of Corporate Champions goes far beyond philanthropy,” added Alyssa Knobel, HPCF Board Member. “Just as businesses invest in their own growth, their pledge to HPCF is an investment in the well-being of the entire community. We are especially excited to welcome DINX Social Club as a new Corporate Champion. DINX embodies the spirit of connection— bringing people together through pickleball, golf, and social experiences—and now, through their five-year pledge, they’re extending that connection to support the broader community.”

DINX Founders L to R: John Bakalar, Christine Bakalar, Brooke Sloane, David Sloane

DINX Social Club was founded by the Sloane and Bakalar families—longtime Highland Park residents—after the idea sparked during a family vacation. Christine and John Bakalar, along with their daughter and son-in-law Brooke and David Sloane, have called Highland Park home for nearly 50 years. They are truly pillars of the community, deeply rooted through both personal ties and philanthropic involvement.

“Their family is wonderful, and they are incredibly involved philanthropically,” said Betsy Brint, former HPCF Chair. “The minute that they heard about the Community Foundation, they jumped on board. They’re community-minded and want to make an impact in both Highland Park and Highwood.”

In addition to supporting the community through their financial commitment to the Foundation, DINX Social Club enriches local life by offering what co-founder David Sloane describes as a ‘third space’—a welcoming, vacation-inspired environment where the décor sets a relaxing and warm tone.

“Since the pandemic, the lines between work and home have blurred,” David shared. “People were doing everything from home and losing connection with one another—and, in some cases, with themselves. We wanted to create a space where people can come, socialize, have a drink, and enjoy a night out, in addition to exercising and engaging in an activity.”

Leaning into the hospitality aspect of the business, David added, “At DINX Social Club, we like to say we know your name and we know your game.”

DINX offers a variety of programming—from intro beginner clinics (some of which are free) to open play and league programming for both pickleball and golf. The facility is also available for private event rentals. “We have a vibrant social scene,” David noted. “Our space is unlike anything else currently available in this area in terms of sports entertainment. It feels more like a chic lounge than a pickleball court or a gym.”

Expanding their investment and commitment to the wellness of our community, DINX Social Club will host “DINX+LINX 4 PINX” this October. This month-long initiative will offer multiple pickleball and golf events to support the important education and research efforts of Chicago’s Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation.

Reflecting on the decision to become an HPCF Corporate Champion, David said it was a “no brainer.” “My wife grew up here with her siblings, we’re raising our family here, and we have invested our business in this community. We want to make sure that, in turn, we are supporting all the members of our community. We invested in Highland Park and Highwood because we see the potential here, and we want to make sure that we do our part to deliver on that potential to all its citizens.”

HPCF is honored to welcome DINX Social Club as a Corporate Champion. Their dedication to giving back to the place they call home helps ensure that individuals and families throughout Highland Park and Highwood receive the support and services they need.

If your business is interested in becoming a Corporate Champion, please contact Terri Olian, HPCF Executive Director, at terri@hpcfil.org, or Steve Schapiro, HPCF Director of Philanthropy, at steve@hpcfil.org.

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) will bring together residents, local businesses, restaurants, and community supporters for its annual Gather for Good celebration on Friday, September 25, from 6:30 to 9 PM at Binny’s Beverage Depot in Highland Park. The event offers an opportunity to enjoy great food and drinks, connect with neighbors, and support HPCF’s grants to nonprofits that meet the needs of our community.

“Binny’s has been part of the Highland Park community for many years, and we’re proud to host Gather for Good once again!” said Keith Youngman, Sales Specialist, of Binny’s Beverage Depot. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring people together in support of an organization that does so much to strengthen our community.”

Bobbie Hinden, an HPCF board member and Gather for Good co-chair, said the event’s relaxed atmosphere is part of what makes it special. Guests can mingle, enjoy food from approximately 30 local restaurants, and participate in the raffle and silent auction. “We’re very lucky to live in such a generous community,” Bobbie said. “Gather for Good gives everyone a chance to come together and show their support.”

The event raises funds for HPCF’s annual grants to nonprofits addressing a wide range of community needs. Bobbie, who also serves on HPCF’s Grants Committee, said she hopes attendees leave with a greater appreciation for the generosity around them. “I hope people take away that this is a giving community and that we all like to participate in helping our neighbors,” Bobbie added.

Patty Pell, an HPCF Advisory Council member, said the raffle and auction are other examples of the community’s generosity. “They are exciting parts of Gather for Good,” Patty remarked. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of local businesses and community members, attendees have the chance to win amazing prizes while directly supporting the Foundation’s work.”

Cristina Mota, HPCF board member and Gather for Good co-chair, said the event reflects the spirit of collaboration that makes the community unique. “I think that’s what makes Highland Park special: everyone jumps in to help each other,” Cristina said. “I love that about the Foundation and the community as a whole — the connection and collaboration, and the way people come together to make our community better for everyone.”

“Community is built through partnerships and Gather for Good is a perfect example of that,” Keith explained. “We’re grateful to be part of an event that brings people together to support the organizations and initiatives that help our neighbors thrive.” For info, visit hpcfil.org/events/gather-for-good.

Each year, the Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) awards a Personal Achievement Award to a graduating Highland Park High School (HPHS) senior who demonstrates perseverance and commitment to overcoming challenges to meet their personal goals. The recipient must also “exemplify the spirit of the Community Foundation in terms of being a part of their school community or other communities they are involved in,” said Nancy Mills, HPCF Board Member and Personal Achievement Award Committee Chair. In recognizing outstanding students who overcome obstacles, the HPCF honors those who demonstrate resiliency and dedication to their education. This year’s recipient, Carlos Sanchez, personifies these characteristics.

Carlos Sanchez

The global pandemic and consistent interruptions to regularly scheduled classes made school – and life – difficult for students. Yet, Carlos faced those and other challenges with strength and determination. “Carlos faced many difficulties related to Covid-19, Zoom learning, and personal matters. He showed remarkable resilience and persistence in working through these obstacles and setting goals for his future,” said HPCF Board and Award Committee Member Jean Meadows. She added, “Carlos is very artistic and has a good sense of humor. We know Carlos will build on his many skills, engaging personality, and perseverance to achieve his career and personal goals.”

HPCF Board Member Jean Meadows, HPHS teacher Sam Toro, Carlos Sanchez, HPCF Board Member Nancy Mills

Carlos’s ability to maintain a part-time job outside of school while pushing himself to always be his best self demonstrates his dedication to excellence, which will no doubt continue throughout his life. As one of his teachers, Sam Toro, noted “Carlos continued to improve his school attendance, challenged himself academically, held a part-time job outside of school, and took advantage of Homework Club. He independently applied to three different colleges in case he decided not to commit to joining the Marines after graduation.” The thought and effort Carlos put into preparing for his future are admirable.

The HPCF has awarded outstanding graduating students with the Personal Achievement Award since 2018. After reviewing nominations submitted by Highland Park High School staff, a small committee from the HPCF interviews the finalists and selects the winner. During the selection process, members of the Community Foundation have had the privilege to get to know a number of truly amazing students

Carlos Sanchez was awarded the Personal Achievement Award in May at Highland Park High School’s Student Honors Night. The HPHS Board and Staff congratulate him on all his hard work and wish him all the best in all his future endeavors.

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) recently awarded 65 Annual Grants totaling $873,075 to organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents of Highland Park and Highwood. These grants will be utilized to address the educational, human service, creative, and cultural arts needs of young children, teens, families, adults, individuals with disabilities, and seniors in our community as well as expand opportunities for all residents.

Since our founding, we have distributed over $7.3 million in grants to nonprofits serving our community. This total includes $6 million in Annual Grants, $240,000 in emergency COVID grants awarded in 2020 and 2021, and $1,074,500 in Highland Park Shooting Recovery and Response Fund grants distributed in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

HPCF is proud to support more than 60 organizations that deliver essential services to the residents of Highland Park and Highwood. “We’re honored to offer opportunities and support to our neighbors in Highwood and Highland Park,” said Eric Ephraim, Vice-Chair of HPCF’s Governing Board, when reflecting on the importance of the grants in strengthening the foundation of the community. “Each of our board members performs heavy due diligence to ensure that the money we raise is distributed to local organizations that will be effective. This process ensures the success of the funded programs and strengthens our community,” he continued. David Reich, a past Board Chair, added, “These grants, both small and large, have a significant impact on a broad cross-section of the community, enabling organizations to deliver services to those in need or provide educational, musical, or artistic experiences to community members. These grants impact the lives of individuals and enrich the community as a whole.”

HPCF’s 2024 Annual Grant recipients include: 112 Education Foundation, A Safe Place, Art Impact Project, Arts of Life, Arts4Impact, Bella Ru Catering Giving Program, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, Blessings in a Backpack Highland Park, Cancer Wellness Center, Center for Enriched Living, Collaborative Community Housing Initiative, College Bound Opportunities, Community – The Anti-Drug Coalition, Community Partners for Affordable Housing, Curt’s Café, Direct Giving Lab, East on Central Association, Erie Family Health Centers, Family Focus HP, Family Service of Glencoe, Focus on the Arts, Glenkirk, GPF Foundation, Gratitude Generation, Heart of the City, Highland Park After Prom, Highland Park Community Early Learning Center, Highland Park Historical Society, Highland Park Public Library, Highland Park Strings, Highwood Public Library & Community Center, Housing Opportunity Development Corporation, HPHS – Estudiante to Student Mentor Program, HPHS – Homework Club, HPHS – National Hispanic Institute, JCFS Chicago, JCYS – Lutz Family Center, Josselyn, Keeping Families Covered, Keshet, Kids Rank, Midwest Young Artists Conservatory, Mothers Trust Foundation, Music Institute of Chicago, North Shore School District 112 – Service Learning, North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association, Operation Warm, Parks Foundation of Highland Park, Pilgrim Chamber Players, Roberti Community House, SaLT – Service and Learning Together, Southeast Lake County Faith in Action Volunteers, The Art Center Highland Park, The Record North Shore, Time to Dance, Tri-Con Child Care Center, United Way of Lake County, Uptown Music Theater of Highland Park, Willow House, Working Together, Youth Services, and Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center.

Grant recipients shared the importance of these grants to their organizations and how the funding can help them strengthen the Highland Park-Highwood community. Susan Bell, Executive Director of College Bound Opportunities (CBO), said, “CBO is very grateful for the support the Highland Park Community Foundation has given to our Scholars from this community over the past 15 years. We are proud to count HPCF as a partner in our growth and success in advancing educational equity. HPCF has had a tremendous generational impact in Highland Park and Highwood, enabling 53 current students and 162 alumni who grew up in this community to earn their college degrees. Many of these graduates have returned here to live, work, and raise their families.” HPCF looks forward to witnessing how CBO will continue to grow and positively impact students’ lives in the future.

CBO Image, Caption: The extended Alonso-Melchor family, all of whom attended Highland Park High School and remain in the Highland Park and Highwood community, visiting freshman Ricky at Illinois State University’s fall family weekend. Pictured are Top Row: Dolores (CBO parent), Denisse (CBO Alumna, UIUC ’20), Ricky (CBO Scholar, ISU; HPHS ’24), Tati (CBO Alumna, UIUC ’12) Bottom: Aylin (CBO Scholar, Lake Forest College ’25), and Nicole (CBO Scholar, HPHS ’25). Not pictured: Diana Melchor (CBO Alumna, SIU ’17)

Reflecting upon the impact of their grant on Highland Park Community Early Learning Center, Executive Director Robin Byster said, “Highland Park Community Foundation’s Annual Grant has been instrumental in enhancing our programs. It allows us to provide high-quality, equitable early childhood education to families in Highland Park and Highwood, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. This support not only benefits the children we serve but also strengthens our community by fostering a foundation for lifelong learning and development.”

Highland Park Community Early Learning Center, Caption: Robin Ruthie with students at the Highland Park Community Early Learning Center on the playground

“We are so grateful for the impactful partnership with HPCF!” stated Amy Rosenfeld Kaufman, Vice President of Community Relations at Community Partners for Affordable Housing. She continued, “The grant we receive supports our Community Land Trust (CLT) program in Highland Park, which provides homeownership opportunities for those who find affordable housing in the community out of reach. Many of our residents describe owning a home in Highland Park that they can afford as ‘a dream come true,’ noting feelings of stability and permanency. In addition, CLT homes are permanently affordable, helping household after household, enabling HPCF’s grant to live on into future generations. What a tremendous contribution to the community!”

Community Partners for Affordable Housing, Caption: Highland Park couple after closing on their new home

The Annual Grants HPCF awards not only uplift individuals but also enhance the community as a whole. This impact is made possible through the generosity of HPCF’s donors and the support of the City of Highland Park. Their contributions help realize our vision of an inclusive, well-rounded, and vibrant community where residents’ lives are enriched through our philanthropic efforts.

Nominations for the 2026 Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) Golden Apple Award are now open!

Each year, the Highland Park Community Foundation recognizes an exceptional teacher through its HPCF Golden Apple Award, honoring an individual who exemplifies excellence in education and makes a lasting impact on their students. In 2026, the award will be presented to a pre-K through 5th grade teacher who goes above and beyond in their dedication to their students, school, and community.

“Each year, we honor an exemplary educator with the prestigious HPCF Golden Apple Award,” said Sara Sher, Chair of the HPCF Golden Apple Committee. “The recipient is chosen based on content knowledge, instruction, staff and student interaction, and contribution to school and community. It is our mission to collect nominations from the community to award a teacher who has dedicated their time and effort to making a difference in their students’ lives through their academic guidance and encouragement.”

2024 HPCFGA Award Winner Jennifer Sobel

Nominations for the HPCF Golden Apple Award will be accepted for full-time teachers currently working in North Shore School District 112 in grades pre-K–5. Community members—including students, parents, colleagues, and administrators—may submit nominations; however, self-nominations and nominations by family members will not be accepted. To nominate an outstanding educator, please visit hpcfil.org and click on “awards” in the navigation bar.

The HPCF Golden Apple Award honoree will receive a Golden Apple statue and the Sara Sher Excellence in Teaching Prize—which includes a $2,000 honorarium and $500 Apple Store gift card. The recipient will be recognized at their school and honored by the NSSD112 Board of Education and HPCF’s Board of Directors.

To be eligible for the award, the nominee must have completed four full years of teaching and be committed to continue teaching in the Highland Park-Highwood public school system for at least two more years. They must also be part of the Golden Apple Selection Committee after receiving the award. Nominations will be accepted until Monday, November 3, 2025, at 5:00 P.M.

Show your appreciation for outstanding educators who make a difference every day by submitting one or more nominations today! For more information or questions regarding the HPCF Golden Apple Award, please contact Sara Sher at sarasher606@gmail.com.

Highland Park Community Foundation (HPCF) is excited to introduce Steve Schapiro as the Foundation’s first Director of Philanthropy. As we continue to expand our reach and impact, dedicated leadership in fundraising and development will optimize the success of our efforts to address unmet needs and expand opportunities for all community members. Steve brings with him a vast amount of knowledge and experience to the Foundation and joins us with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities of the nonprofit sector. His professional background, coupled with a passion for improving lives, make him an ideal fit for this pivotal role.

Native to this area, Steve is aware of the disparities that exist within our community and looks forward to expanding our fundraising platforms to address them. “I am humbled and honored to be working with Highland Park Community Foundation’s dedicated Board and staff. As we look to the future, a focused effort on fund development is required to expand opportunities and address the unmet needs of residents in Highland Park and Highwood, an effort I’m eager to engage in. I look forward to meeting our generous donors and broadening our base of support from the business community, foundations, and individuals,” he said. “Over the next several months, I will also be meeting our partner agencies, who provide the essential and irreplaceable services and programs our residents need. I will be at community events as well to introduce myself to as many people as possible and raise awareness about the Foundation and all we do to strengthen our community.”

Steve Schapiro

Steve is an accomplished development professional with a solid record of success in executing fundraising plans across a wide range of sources including special events, major gifts, and corporate gifts; cause-related marketing; sponsorships; and grants. He has led diverse fundraising teams and collaborates harmoniously with donors, the C-suite, volunteers, staff, and boards. He has held senior-level positions with several leading nonprofit organizations, including the Alzheimer’s Association and, most recently, the Les Turner ALS Foundation as Chief Philanthropy Officer.

“We are thrilled to have Steve Schapiro join our team,” said HPCF Board Chair Laurie Levin. “He has lost no time in meeting our Board members and bringing his wealth of experience in the philanthropy world to help HPCF identify and foster new donor bases, increase the commitments of existing donors, and broaden the initiatives that will enable HPCF to thrive generationally. Steve is approachable and enthusiastic, characteristics that align perfectly with the HPCF’s mission to address the unmet needs of our diverse community.”

Executive Director Terri Olian added, “The decision to bring Steve on board reflects our commitment to strengthening our fundraising strategies, fostering donor relationships, and securing resources necessary to advance our mission. With Steve’s guidance and expertise, we are confident in our ability to expand our reach and make an even greater difference in the lives of children and adults throughout Highland Park and Highwood.”

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Steve as we continue to build a brighter future for our community!