Center of Concern Hosts Special Event on Cost of Living

Networking, Expert Panel, and Annual Awards Ceremony at the Des Plaines Theatre on Monday, September 14

The Center of Concern is proud to announce a special free event dedicated to addressing how rising costs are impacting our community on Monday, September 14, 2026. The evening will start with appetizers and networking at 5:30 PM and an expert panel discussion and awards ceremony beginning at 6:30 PM.  

The event will be hosted at the historic Des Plaines Theatre and will provide the opportunity for socializing, resource sharing, insightful discussions, and recognition of extraordinary community members who support the Center of Concern’s mission to enable vulnerable residents to live with dignity and independence.  

Attendees will explore the resources, strategies, and partnerships that can increase access to housing, food, healthcare, and transportation for older adults and low-income individuals and families. There is no cost to attend, though donations are encouraged.  

Guest speakers include Danita Childers, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of Cook County; Dr. Kiran Joshi, Chief Operating Officer of the Cook County Department of Public Health; John Schomberg, Assistant Secretary for Programs at the Illinois Department of Human Services; and Dian Slezak, President and CEO at AgeOptions. Senator Tammy Duckworth will provide virtual opening remarks, and Illinois State Representative Michelle Mussman will serve as the discussion moderator. 

Center of Concern annual award recipients include Sister Kathleen Stadler, Volunteer of the Year; Kathy Zelm Gazzolo, Dee Heinrich Award; Park Ridge Mayor Marty Maloney, Excellence in Leadership Award; and Jewel Osco, Benny Velazquez, Partner of the Year Award. Also being recognized this evening are former Board members Tom Merlin and Cathy Thompson in appreciation of their dedicated service to the Center of Concern Board of Directors.

More information about this special event can be found online at centerofconcern.org/needs or by calling the Center of Concern at 847-823-0453.