Lincoln Park Community Services Raising Over $200,000 at Annual Metamorphosis Gala

Lincoln Park Community Services (LPCS) welcomed supporters, donors, volunteers, and community leaders to Metamorphosis 2026: “An Enchanted Evening,” its annual spring gala held Friday, May 8 at Sarabande in Chicago. The immersive evening celebrated the compassion, generosity, and dedication that continue to make LPCS’s mission possible while raising more than $200,000 to support individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty across Chicago.

For more than 40 years, LPCS has served as a beacon of hope, providing shelter, meals, housing assistance, mental health support, outreach, and pathways to independence for thousands of Chicagoans annually. This year’s Metamorphosis gala reimagined the fundraising event as an enchanting, experiential evening where storytelling, creativity, and community impact came together.

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Guests enjoyed close-up magic by Dan Feltey and performances by faculty from Merit School of Music. The evening also featured cocktails, dinner, and both live and silent auctions benefiting LPCS programs and services. One of the night’s most talked-about silent auction packages was inspired by the hit TV show The Bear, featuring a framed cast-autographed poster, exclusive cast and crew gifts, limited-edition apparel, an apron from the show, and other collectible memorabilia.

“The evening was a celebration of the incredible support and dedication our donors, volunteers, and community members continue to show LPCS,” said Cheryl Hamilton-Hill, CEO of LPCS. “Every person in that room played a role in helping individuals move toward stability, healing, and independence.”

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the annual Compassion in Action Award to board member and volunteer Lynne Brenan in recognition of her unwavering commitment to LPCS’s Drop-In Program. Through her consistent presence and care, Brenan has made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless guests.

The event also marked the announcement of the inaugural Betsy Carlson Graduate Champion Award, a new honor that will be presented annually to an LPCS graduate who demonstrates extraordinary perseverance and lasting stability. The award recognizes individuals whose journeys reflect the resilience, hope, and determination that Betsy Carlson championed so deeply.

LPCS was honored to recognize Janet Matthews as the first recipient of the Betsy Carlson Graduate Champion Award. Matthews previously lived in one of LPCS’s shelters before transitioning into permanent supportive housing. Today, she serves on the LPCS Board of Directors and volunteers regularly at the organization’s Fullerton location, where she warmly greets guests, staff, and visitors. The award was presented by Betsy Carlson’s mother and father, who traveled from Minnesota to attend the event.

“Janet’s story is a powerful reminder of why this work matters,” Hamilton-Hill said. “She represents the resilience and strength we see in so many members of our community, and we are proud to celebrate her leadership and impact.”

As homelessness continues to rise across Chicago, LPCS remains committed to providing critical support and advocating for sustained investment in housing, outreach, and supportive services that create long-term stability.

For more information, please visit www.lpcschicago.org.