LPCS Raises Over $283,000 at Metamorphosis Gala

On Friday, May 9, Lincoln Park Community Services (LPCS) hosted its most meaningful Metamorphosis gala to date, celebrating 40 years of impact in Chicago’s fight against homelessness and raising more than $283,000 to support its life-changing programs and services.

Held at Sarabande in Roscoe Village, Metamorphosis 2025 was not just a fundraiser—it was a heartfelt homecoming. Guests traveled from across the country to honor the legacy of LPCS, reconnect with old friends, and share stories that spanned four decades of service and transformation.

Among the night’s most memorable moments: a former volunteer from California—who made the original soup served on LPCS’s first night 40 years ago—returned to celebrate; a hand-knitted scarf, crafted by a former LPCS guest who is now a board member, was auctioned off; and guests added their names and memories to the interactive “40 Decades Board,” honoring their years of involvement. Former staff members, including past executive directors, were also in attendance, reflecting the organization’s deep roots and enduring impact. A lively mix of live and silent auctions, a paddle raise, and a spirited 54-card raffle energized the evening, which was beautifully underscored by a moving performance from The Nomad Cellist.

Adding to the celebration, Alderman Timmy Knudsen presented LPCS with a proclamation honoring its 40 years of service to Chicago’s 43rd Ward, and Mayor Brandon Johnson shared a special video message thanking LPCS for its decades of transformative work and its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Chicagoans experiencing homelessness.

“This year’s Metamorphosis wasn’t just a fundraiser—it was a reunion, a remembrance and a rallying cry for the future of our Guests,” said Cheryl Hamilton-Hill, CEO of LPCS. “We were reminded that it takes a village to do this important work, and LPCS has one of the most dedicated villages in Chicago and beyond.”

Two special awards were presented during the evening to honor those who have played a pivotal role in LPCS’s journey. Darla and Jeff Lawler received the Compassion in Action Award in recognition of their unwavering volunteerism, leadership, and enduring support of the organization. The Cornerstone Legacy Award was presented to the four founding churches—Church of our Saviour, Lincoln Park Presbyterian, St. Clement Parish , and St. Paul’s United Church of Christ—whose collaboration in 1985 laid the foundation for what has become one of Chicago’s most impactful housing and support organizations for those experiencing homelessness.

As LPCS celebrates this milestone year, it also looks to the future—committed to expanding access to shelter, case management, permanent housing, and holistic support services for Chicago’s unhoused population. To support LPCS or learn more, visit www.lpcschicago.org.

About Lincoln Park Community Services

Lincoln Park Community Services (LPCS) brings communities together to empower individuals facing homelessness and poverty to secure stable housing and make sustainable life changes. With locations in Lincoln Park and Old Town, LPCS offers a continuum of care including interim housing, permanent supportive housing, drop-in services, street outreach, and a growing Graduate Community. Each year, LPCS helps hundreds of adults move toward greater stability, dignity and independence.