Brookfield Zoo, AMITA Health, and LADSE recognized at Gala

On Saturday, April 14, Helping Hand Foundation hosted its 19th Annual Gala at the Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center in Oakbrook Terrace. The evening featured live and silent auctions, a $2,500 Grand Raffle, an Invest in the Mission paddle raise, cocktails, dinner, and dancing with live music provided by the Chicago band, Green Fourteen.

The program also recognized AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center LaGrange, Brookfield Zoo, and the LaGrange Area Department of Special Education (LADSE) for their partnership in creating the Project SEARCH internship program. Through the support of these local community partners, Helping Hand Center has found jobs for over 40 individuals with disabilities since beginning Project SEARCH in 2014. “I am thrilled to recognize these organizations,” said Helping Hand Center’s CEO, Bill Dwyer. “These organizations understand the benefit that their companies receive and the pride they give by employing people from Helping Hand.”

The Annual Gala is the largest fundraiser for Helping Hand Center and Helping Hand Foundation. Over 325 guests were in attendance. The event raised over $160,000 to support the agency’s mission of assisting children and adults with disabilities achieve independence.

For additional information about Helping Hand Center or the 19th Annual Gala, please visit hhcenter.org