Social Calendar — Can’t Miss October Charity Events
- Most Anticipated October Charity Events in Chicago

Chicago’s fall gala season’s calendar of must attend events is well underway and we are glad to see organizations looking to put the FUN back into FUNDraising for their numerous causes. Gala’s are a special tradition in Chicago as many of these non-profit organizations seize the opportunity to raise a money while donors, board members and patrons and guests alike get to meet and mingle in a more social setting. This month’s calendar of events range from foodie to the arts but one thing’s certain, The Geraghty and The Hilton Chicago is the top venue of choice. Keep reading for our can’t miss charity events taking place this October in Chicago and get more info and tickets if you would like to support. For those looking to take their network and perhaps net worth to a new level, events like these are always a great way to meet some high caliber decision makers in the city. Happy FUNdraising!
Remember, if you can’t attend the event you can still support the organization that interests you either: with a donation, purchasing raffle tickets or bidding on a raffle/auction item when available.
World Business Chicago International Gala 2023
LOCATION: Hilton Chicago Hotel | 720 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago
DATE | TIME: Thursday, October 12 | Reception: 6pm; Dinner 7pm
CO-CHAIRS: Her Excellency Reyna Torres Mendivil, Dr. Opella Ernest, Mellody Hobson, Pin Ni, Jose Luis Prado, Richard Price, James Reynolds, Jr., John C. Robak, Micheal Sacks, Smita Shah.
The Chicago International Gala is a wonderful evening hosted by World Business Chicago and Chicago Sister Cities International. The proceeds from this special event supports the work of World Business Chicago and Chicago Sister Cities International, and funds the Chicago Consular Corps’ scholarships to the University of Illinois at Chicago The Night’s honorees include:Martin Cabrera, Jr.(CEO and Founder of Cabrera Capital Markets) with the Global Citizen Award; United Airlines- Corporate Ambassador Award; Nuala Kavanagh (Co-Chair of the Galway Committee)-hicago Sister Cities 2023 International Volunteer of the Year AwarChicago Sister Cities 2023 International Volunteer of the Year Award. LEARN MORE.
Chicago United Voices Red Jacket Optional Gala 2023
LOCATION: the Geraghty | 2520 S. Hoyne Avenue
DATE | TIME: Thursday, October 14 | 6pm-
CO-CHAIRS: Michelle and Tom Cusick | Suzanne EL-Moursi and Dr. Bassel Ericsoussi
Red Jacket Optional is Uniting Voices Chicago’s largest single fundraiser of the year, driving more than 40 percent of the organization’s annual operating budget. This unparalleled experience allows attendees to make a profound impact on the future of Chicago’s youth while enjoying an evening of show-stopping performances unlike any other in the city. The night will also honor Caroline Dettman and Eric Ashworth, who have made an indelible mark on the organization and its public perception with more than 17 years combined experience exemplifying bold leadership on Uniting Voices Board of Directors. LEARN MORE.
YMCA of Metro Chicago Recognition Dinner
LOCATION: Morgan MFG | 401 N Morgan St.
DATE | TIME: Thursday, October 19 | 7pm
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago plays to foster community, break barriers, and promote growth for a brighter, more equitable future. Together, let’s celebrate 165 years of play; of impact and empowerment; of education and innovation — all thanks to your support. The 2023 Recognition Dinner will honor the civic leaders, partners, friends, and donors who champion the YMCA’s mission and the Power of Play. Join us to commemorate the legacy of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago and to toast to our future, as we continue to meet the evolving needs of our communities, from today and for decades to come. LEARN MORE.
Meals On Wheels Chef Ball
LOCATION: The Geraghty | 2520 S. Hoyne Avenue
DATE | TIME: Friday October 20
CO-CHAIRS: Amy McCarty, Chef Cory Morris, Heidi Clifton,
Dozens of top chefs and mixologists will come together to create a special evening of fine dining to benefit the Meals on Wheels Chicago program. The Ball begins with a cocktail reception followed by a truly unique and extravagant experience where every table is a chef’s table! A team of chefs will prepare a six-course meal right in front of your table, personally presenting their creations. Opportunities to win stellar experiences while supporting our cause are available during the live auction and paddle raise.Proceeds benefit Chicago’s homebound seniors and people with disabilities struggling with food insecurity. *Black Tie Optional* LEARN MORE.
Field Museum Love Science Benefit Ball
LOCATION: Field Museum | 1400 S. DuSable Lakeshore Drive
DATE | TIME: October 21 | 6pm
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Calling all explorers, adventurers, and inquisitive minds, the Field Museum will hold its annual fundraising celebration in person at the Museum, hosted by the Women’s Board and Board of Trustees. Celebrate and support the Field Museum at our annual Benefit Ball! LEARN MORE.
Black Ensemble Theatre Legacy Gala 2023
LOCATION: Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center | 4450 N. Clark Street
DATE | TIME: Friday, October 19 | 11am
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Black Ensemble Theater’s 24th Annual Legacy Gala “An Evening of Elegance to Support Excellence.” Yes, it’s time for the party of the year! And just like the song says “We’re gonna party like it’s your birthday”. We’re talking about an evening of fun, great food, dancing, bid-whist, spades, a smooth-jazz room, a down-home blues room, a great performance by the Black Ensemble Theater’s all-stars and an evening full of surprises. The Legacy Gala is our biggest fundraiser of the year, full of elegance to support excellence – so come on out and party with a purpose. LEARN MORE.

Misericordia Heart of Mercy Ball Gala
LOCATION: Hilton Chicago, 700 S Michigan Avenue
DATE | TIME: Saturday, October 21 | 6pm
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Please join the Women’s Board at the 2023 Heart of Mercy Ball for “An Evening in Sister Rosemary Park” to benefit Misericordia and celebrate our distinguished honorees. Denise and Ivo Cozzini will be presented the Heart of Mercy Award. John Scully Jr. will receive the Sister Rosemary Connelly
Service Medallion. Miniat Holdings LLC to receive the Pillars of the Community Award. The Misericordia Women’s Board is pleased to share that a primary fundraising focus this year is for Sister Rosemary Park, a new three-acre residential development on Thome Avenue, south of the main campus. LEARN MORE.

Erikson Institute Luncheon
LOCATION: Marriott Marquis Chicago | 2121 S Prairie Ave 60616
DATE | TIME: Friday, October 27 | 11:30 am
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Help us celebrate Erikson’s positive impact on young children, their families, and communities. Our program will feature a keynote address from best-selling author and voting rights activist Stacey Abrams. LEARN MORE.
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pronounced: Boh-la-jee, like the Bellagio but w/o the O. SLC Founder and Editor, loves to write about topics at the intersection of career and lifestyle for today's young professional and future leaders.