GREATER RIVER NORTH FOUNDATION
Presents
An Evening of Impact Gala
Celebrating the people who make community possible
Thursday, March 26, 2026
61 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
( Cocktail Attire )
Why it matters... an evening with purpose
We are hosting this gala to raise the philanthropic support needed to power the Greater River North Foundation’s community initiatives, work that directly strengthens River North’s small businesses, public spaces, and overall quality of life.
Proceeds from the evening will help fund grants for emerging businesses, beautification and placemaking projects, restaurant and hospitality support efforts, and neighborhood safety and clean-up initiatives that keep River North vibrant, welcoming, and resilient.
This gala is also an investment in the future of River North. As the district continues to grow, the needs that come with growth, cleaner streets, stronger security, enhanced lighting, and more inviting public spaces, require sustainable funding and coordinated action.
Future Initiatives:
Looking ahead, the Foundation is helping lay the groundwork for a dedicated commercial Special Service Area (SSA), which would provide long-term resources to support beautification and security throughout River North. By supporting this gala, donors are helping us deliver immediate impact today while building a stronger, safer, and more beautiful River North for years to come.
Evening at a Glance
We are hosting this gala to raise the philanthropic support needed to power the Greater River North Foundation’s community initiatives, work that directly strengthens River North’s small businesses, public spaces, and overall quality of life.
Proceeds from the evening will help fund grants for emerging businesses, beautification and placemaking projects, restaurant and hospitality support efforts, and neighborhood safety and clean-up initiatives that keep River North vibrant, welcoming, and resilient.
This gala is also an investment in the future of River North. As the district continues to grow, the needs that come with growth, cleaner streets, stronger security, enhanced lighting, and more inviting public spaces, require sustainable funding and coordinated action.
Silent Auction
Get ready to bid on an exciting collection of premium items, exclusive experiences, and one-of-a-kind packages—carefully curated to make your night even more memorable. Every winning bid directly supports the Greater River North Foundation’s work to strengthen small businesses and elevate our community initiatives.
Interested in donating an item or experience to our Silent Auction?
Albert Friedman Award
The Albert Friedman Award honors the legacy of Albert M. Friedman—long recognized for his commitment to strengthening and revitalizing the River North community. Each year, Mr. Friedman present this award to a business or individual whose leadership, community investment, and philanthropic spirit reflect that same passion for River North
About Albert Friedman
Albert M. Friedman is Chairman and CEO of Friedman Properties. Mr. Friedman has focused his career on fostering the revitalization of the River North community. Since its founding in 1970, Friedman Properties has redeveloped more than 12 city blocks. Throughout his career Mr. Friedman has worked on diverse projects including historic rehab projects, such as Medinah Temple, Court House Place, and the Reid Murdoch Center, as well as new construction such as a Class-A LEED certified office tower, luxury apartments, parking garages, and nine hotels. Today, Friedman Properties owns and manages 50+ properties totaling over 5 million SF, which are home to over 50 full-service restaurants and event spaces, including The Ivy Room.
Mr. Friedman’s visionary practice of adaptive re-use, his development projects, and his leadership in the resurgence of Chicago’s River North have earned him recognition as Chicago’s leading preservationist, a top real estate developer, and a respected civic leader. Mr. Friedman is a graduate of both Northwestern School of Business and DePaul University School of Law. He has been recognized by the DePaul University College of Law, and the National Conference for Community and Justice. He was also inducted into the Chicago Area Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame.
In addition to his notable achievements, Mr. Friedman is actively involved in a number of noteworthy charities and civic organizations. He served on the Board of Directors of the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois and served as Chairman of the Workforce Boards of Metropolitan Chicago, and the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau and was President of the River North Business Association. Currently, he serves on the Executive Committee for the Northwestern Memorial Foundation’s Board of Directors. He is also the Honorary Chairman for Big Green, a national nonprofit dedicated to building a healthier future for kids across America.
Mr. Friedman’s passion for the City of Chicago and deep community roots are shared by his wife, Suzanne, their son, Jason and his family, and their daughter, Julie and her family.
Entertainment
Enjoy live music throughout the evening with a five-piece band performing top hits from recent years—the perfect soundtrack for a high-energy, unforgettable night.
Band announcement coming soon. Please revisit our website for updates, as we are currently finalizing our entertainment vendor and will share the band name once confirmed.
Paddle Raise
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening, our Paddle Raise is a live, high-energy fundraising experience where guests can make a direct impact in real time. Every contribution helps fuel the Greater River North Foundation’s mission—supporting emerging businesses and funding community initiatives that strengthen and beautify River North. Participate at whatever level feels right to you—together, we’ll raise critical funds in just a few powerful minutes.
Wine Pull
Make a donation and take home a surprise bottle of wine! Choose a numbered cork to reveal your bottle—each one is wrapped so it’s a mystery until you pull. Bottles are valued from $35 to $135, with a limited number of premium selections in the mix. Limited quantities available—while supplies last.
Interested in donating wine?
Tickets & Tables
Single Ticket Member
$150
Open Seating
Single Ticket Non-Member
$200
Open Seating
Member Table (seats 10)
$1000
Reserved Table
Non-Member Table (seats 10)
$1500
Reserved Table
Sponsorship Opportunities
Click any tier to view details, or explore all options
Presenting Sponsor
$25,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Presenting Sponsor
$25,000- Social media storytelling series tied to sponsor name
- Year-Round Recognition (website, annual report, newsletter)
- Visibility at multiple foundation events
- Champagne welcome experience
- Brief On-Stage Remarks during the Evening Program, offering a brief, mission-aligned message to attendees
- VIP table of 10 with priority placement + curated guest list support if desired
- Exclusive meet-and-greet with honorees / board / key stakeholders at VIP Reception
- Exclusive VIP recognition moment
- Full written feature in the Evening Program Book highlighting your commitment and impact
- Comprehensive sponsor profile on the event website
- Logo placement on all event communications to showcase your support at every touchpoint
- Dedicated media mentions
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Associate Sponsor
$10,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Associate Sponsor
$10,000- Social media storytelling series tied to sponsor name
- Recognition (website, annual report, newsletter)
- VIP table of 10 with priority placement + curated guest list support if desired
- Exclusive meet-and-greet with honorees / board / key stakeholders at VIP Reception
- Exclusive VIP recognition moment
- Full written feature in the Evening Program Book highlighting your commitment and impact
- Comprehensive sponsor profile on the event website
- Logo placement on all event communications to showcase your support at every touchpoint
- Dedicated media mentions
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Community Sponsor
$5,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Community Sponsor
$5,000- Recognition (website, annual report, newsletter)
- VIP table of 10 with priority placement
- Meet-and-greet with honorees / board / key stakeholders at VIP Reception
- Exclusive VIP recognition moment
- Full written feature in the Evening Program Book highlighting your commitment and impact
- Comprehensive sponsor profile on the event website
- Logo placement on all event communications to showcase your support at every touchpoint
- Dedicated media mentions
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Supporting Sponsor
$2,500Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Supporting Sponsor
$2,500- VIP table of 10
- Meet-and-greet with honorees / board / key stakeholders at VIP Reception
- Full written feature in the Evening Program Book highlighting your commitment and impact
- Sponsor profile on the event website
- Logo placement on all event communications
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Bar Sponsor
$5,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Bar Sponsor
$5,000- Keep the celebration flowing. As the Bar Sponsor, your brand will be prominently featured at the bar throughout the evening—one of the highest-traffic touchpoints of the gala. Your support helps elevate the guest experience while directly funding the Foundation’s work to strengthen Chicago’s emerging business community.
- Recognition includes: bar signage, logo placement on event materials, and verbal recognition during the program.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
VIP Reception Sponsor
$5,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
VIP Reception Sponsor
$5,000- Set the tone for the evening. The VIP Reception is where top sponsors, community leaders, and special guests connect before the main program begins. As the VIP Reception Sponsor, your brand will be featured in this exclusive portion of the night while helping us invest in initiatives that uplift local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
- Recognition includes: VIP reception signage, logo placement on event materials, and verbal recognition during the program.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Departing Gift Sponsor
$5,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Departing Gift Sponsor
$5,000- Leave guests with a lasting impression. The Departing Gift Sponsor provides the branded takeaway guests receive as they exit—ensuring your company is associated with a thoughtful, premium final moment of the night. Your sponsorship supports the programs and resources that help businesses grow, create jobs, and thrive.
- Recognition includes: logo on departing gift signage, optional branded insert in gift bags (if applicable), and recognition on event materials.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Champagne Welcome Experience Sponsor
$4,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Champagne Welcome Experience Sponsor
$4,000- Make the first impression unforgettable. As the Champagne Welcome Experience Sponsor, your brand will be featured during our signature arrival moment as guests are greeted with a celebratory toast. This is a high-visibility, photo-worthy activation that sets the mood and creates immediate brand association with elegance and hospitality.
- Recognition includes: signage at the welcome experience, logo placement on event materials, and recognition during the program.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Music Entertainment Sponsor
$3,000Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Music Entertainment Sponsor
$3,000- Power the energy of the night. As the Evening Entertainment Sponsor, you’ll support the music/entertainment that keeps guests engaged and the celebration moving. Your brand will be tied to one of the most memorable parts of the gala experience.
- Recognition includes: entertainment-area signage, logo placement on event materials, and recognition during the program.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
360 Photo Booth Sponsor
$2,500Strategic Partnership Inclusions
360 Photo Booth Sponsor
$2,500- Own the most shareable moment of the night. The 360 Photo Booth is a guest favorite—creating instant content and high engagement. As sponsor, your brand is showcased where guests are recording, posting, and tagging all evening.
- Recognition includes: signage at the photo booth, logo placement near the experience, and recognition on event materials.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Décor Sponsor
$2,500Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Décor Sponsor
$2,500- Help transform the space. As the Décor Sponsor, your support enhances the look and feel of the entire gala—from the room ambiance to statement décor moments. Your brand aligns with the elevated guest experience that makes this night stand out.
- Recognition includes: décor recognition signage and logo placement on event materials.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Coat Check Sponsor
$1,500Strategic Partnership Inclusions
Coat Check Sponsor
$1,500- Be the first brand guests see—and one they remember. The Coat Check Sponsor receives prominent visibility at the start and end of the evening as every guest passes through this touchpoint.
- Recognition includes: coat check signage and logo placement on event materials.
Sponsorship Confirmation Must Be Received by 2/26/26
Additional Opportunities
Ad Book
Silent Auction Donations
Our silent auction is a vital part of the event, generating the funds that help us sustain our foundation. We’re seeking unique, high-impact items and memorable experiences that will excite bidders and inspire strong bids.
Both attendees Bidding is open to guests and non-guests alike at the event
Our Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors who make this event possible
