ZCenter Raises More than $120,000 at "Rooted & Rising" Spring Luncheon

The Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (ZCenter) welcomed community leaders, advocates, survivors, and supporters to its 2026 “Rooted & Rising” Annual Spring Luncheon on Friday, May 8th at the Hilton Orrington Evanston, raising more than $120,000 in support of free, trauma-informed services for survivors of sexual violence and their families across Lake County and Northeastern Cook County.

This year’s luncheon featured an interactive photo booth, live auction, paddle drop game, wine pull and paddle raise. Guests enthusiastically lifted their paddles in support of survivors and ZCenter’s life-changing work.

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The program was emceed by Suzanne Le Mignot of CBS Chicago and featured remarks from ZCenter CEO Sandy T. Williams and Board Chair Zrinka Allen, as well as recognition of Community Impact Award recipient Project Linus – North and Central Chicagoland Chapter for its commitment to supporting children and families in need.

One of the most powerful moments of the luncheon came through a moving feature video and courageous remarks from ZCenter client Brianna, who shared her personal story of survival and healing. Her testimony served as a poignant reminder of the transformational impact of ZCenter’s free, individualized, trauma-informed services and the importance of ensuring survivors have access to compassionate support.

“Rooted and Rising reflects both the strength of survivors and the resilience of our community,” said Sandy T. Williams, CEO of ZCenter. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, shared in this mission, and helped raise critical funds that allow us to continue providing care, advocacy, and education to those who need it most.”

For more than 40 years, ZCenter has served as a trusted source of healing and empowerment for survivors of sexual assault and abuse. Through counseling, advocacy, community outreach, and prevention education, the organization continues working toward a future free from sexual violence.

To learn more about ZCenter or support its mission, visit ZCenter.

Photos by CRosemond Photography HERE