Each year, the Children Affected by AIDS Foundation (CAAF) looks to give children who are infected or affected by either AIDS or HIV-positive status a chance to celebrate one of a child’s most anticipated holidays.

CSI: NY actress and Chicago native Melina Kanakaredes hosted the CAAF’S 7th Annual Dream Halloween Chicago Oct. 21. She also received the Celebrity Hero Award.

Mayor Daley, his wife Maggie and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., served as honorary event chairs of this year’s event. More than 1,100 attendees attended Dream Halloween at the Windy City Fieldhouse, 2367 W. Logan.