Saint Leonard's Ministries is proud to host the 2026 Heart of Saint Leonard's gala on Thursday, October 15th.
More than an annual fundraiser, the Heart of Saint Leonard's is a celebration of hope, transformation, and community. Together, we honor the remarkable resilience of people impacted by the justice system, celebrate the life-changing work of Saint Leonard's Ministries, and recognize three extraordinary individuals whose leadership, generosity, and dedication have helped advance our mission.
This year, we are proud to celebrate and present awards to the following honorees:
Founders Award:
Nikki Will Stein, Former President of Polk Bros. Foundation
Distinguished Alumni Award:
Marshawn Feltus, Entrepreneur, Community Leader, and SLM Culinary Alumni
Champions Award:
Walter Burnett, Jr., Former 27th Ward Alderman and Vice Mayor of Chicago
This year's event will also feature retired news anchor, Derrick Blakley, who will serve as emcee. Bishop Paula Clark, Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, will give the opening prayer.
For more than 71 years, Saint Leonard's Ministries has empowered justice-impacted individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose, and opportunity. Your presence and support help carry this legacy forward, ensuring that more people have the resources, encouragement, and community they need to lead whole and fulfilling lives.
We are excited to welcome more than 250 guests, including Saint Leonard's alumni, current residents and program participants, volunteers, donors, board members, community leaders, and friends of our mission. Together, we will celebrate lives transformed, invest in brighter futures, and reaffirm our shared commitment to creating lasting change.
We hope you'll join us for this inspiring and unforgettable evening.
Details
Event Timeline
5:30 PM – VIP Reception
6:30 PM – General Admission Reception
7:30 PM – Awards Ceremony (begins promptly)
9:00 PM – Event Concludes
What to Expect
Complimentary valet parking
Business casual or cocktail attire
Special poetry performances by SLM Alumni during VIP reception
A delicious culinary experience featuring heavy passed hors d'oeuvres, chef-curated buffet stations, and open bars by Edible Passport
Live musical entertainment by Windy Indie
Exciting silent auction packages and exclusive experiences
An inspiring and engaging paddle raise where your generosity will directly support Saint Leonard's Ministries' life-changing programs
A special dessert bar crafted and presented by students and alumni of Saint Leonard's Ministries' Culinary Skills Training Program
