Polk Bros. Foundation and Michael Leppen have been announced as the honorees at the Center on Halsted’s 16th Annual Human First Gala. The event will be held at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, 301 E. North Water St., on April 9.
Each year, the center recognizes individuals and groups that have promoted diversity and fought homophobia. Polk Bros. Foundation, the recipient of this year’s Community Spirit Award, is a long-time supporter of the Center on Halsted’s programs and has been a leading donor to the capital campaign. Leppen, the Human First Award recipient, has supported many organizations besides the Center, including the Lesbian Community Cancer Project, Dance for Life, About Face Youth Theatre, and Equality Illinois. Leppen is the leading individual donor to the Center’s capital campaign, having contributed $250,000.
The other Human First Award honoree is Mayor Richard M. Daley. Daley has supported the Center by helping to secure property and serving as an honorary campaign co-chair.
Contact Ricardo Torres at (773) 472-6469, ext. 239.