The Chicago Help Initiative to Honor Community Champions at 2025 Helping Hands Awards

The Chicago Help Initiative (CHI) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Helping Hands Awards, to be presented at the organization’s annual Carnaval of Giving benefit on Thursday, September 18, at Fogo de Chão in River North. These awards recognize individuals and organizations whose service, generosity, and leadership embody CHI’s mission to uplift those experiencing homelessness, hunger, and hardship.

2025 Helping Hands Award Recipients
Anthony Spalla – Individual Honoree

A humble and deeply committed servant-leader in Chicago’s food rescue movement, Anthony Spalla is being recognized for his extraordinary outreach work with The Chicago Help Initiative, which touches communities across the city. Operating through a grant supported by the Archdiocese of Chicago, Anthony provides food, household essentials, and compassionate care on a weekly basis. From delivering rescued food to CHI’s Wednesday and Saturday meals, Anthony’s logistical prowess and servant heart have made him a quiet engine of relief for countless underserved individuals.

“I’ve been blessed with networks that allow me to help people from pregnancy through natural death,” says Spalla. “Whether it’s mental health facilities, prison ministries, or community shelters—if someone needs help, I’ll do everything I can to connect them to it.”

Though grounded in Catholic values, Anthony emphasizes that his outreach is universal: “You don’t have to be Catholic for me to help you. If you’re struggling, you matter. And that’s enough.”

Photo: Derrick Scott, mother Michelle Scott and grandchildren and Anthony Spalla making a food delivery.

Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust – Corporate Honoree
Accepted by Ben Vacek on behalf of Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust and its Metropolitan Capital Philanthropic Enterprise (MCPE), Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust is being honored for over 15 years of partnership and impact. The bank has not only consistently sponsored CHI’s Wednesday meals but has also provided a steady stream of volunteers, financial education, and in-kind donations.

CHI was the first nonprofit partner officially recognized by the MCPE. Their support has extended to CHI’s holiday initiatives, refugee toy drives, and board leadership, demonstrating an institutional culture of compassion and civic responsibility.

“Supporting CHI has been a deeply meaningful part of our commitment to the community,” said Vacek. “It’s an honor to partner with an organization that brings compassion and support to those who need it most.”

Photo: Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust team helping serve a Chicago Help Initiative meal.

First American Bank – Corporate Honoree
Accepted by Mark Knight, Vice President at First American Bank and a dedicated CHI board member, the bank is being recognized for its leadership, generosity, and hands-on involvement in CHI’s work.

Through sponsorships, volunteer engagement, and board service, First American Bank exemplifies the spirit of partnership that makes CHI’s mission possible. Assistant Vice President Erick Santiago also volunteers weekly at food distributions, helping CHI deliver nourishment and dignity to Chicagoans in crisis.

“First American Bank is committed to CHI’s vision of a Chicago where no one is homeless or hungry,” said Knight.

Join Us to Celebrate
🎟️ Tickets are $225 and $250 day-of
👉 Purchase tickets or become a sponsor
The evening will feature Brazilian-inspired cuisine, live music, a silent auction, and stories of impact—all to support CHI’s mission of feeding and uplifting those most in need.

💙 About The Chicago Help Initiative
The Chicago Help Initiative (CHI) is a nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, and poverty through prepared meals, case management, health resources, job readiness programs, and a Free Store for essential items. With no government funding and a 95% volunteer-run model, CHI supports over 44,000 people annually—powered entirely by the compassion of the community.
🌐 Learn more at chicagohelpinitiative.org
Can’t Attend? You Can Still Make a Difference.
If you’re unable to attend, consider donating any size. Every dollar directly supports CHI’s meals, services, and outreach programs—and helps ensure no one in our city goes unseen.

👉 Make a donation or purchase tickets here
🌐 Learn more about CHI’s mission