I Am Who I Am Foundation for Down Syndrome

Hi, I am Holly Simon and the mother of 5 kids. When my 5th child was born here in Chicago everyone in the delivery room noticed that Nate had Down Syndrome. Unfortunately the usual CONGRATULATIONS were not heard. The doctors and nurses all said that they were sorry to my husband and I. Can you imagine? The fears? The horror? "Sorry" must mean he was dying.

Strike a Pose Celebrity Fashion Show to benefit the David DeJesus Family Foundation

A catwalk, the latest fashions, batting averages. You’ll find all three when current and former Cubs players take to the runway for the first Strike a Pose celebrity fashion show to benefit the David DeJesus Family Foundation on Thursday, January 17th at the River East Art Center. Kim and David DeJesus will co-chair the event and all funds raised will benefit ALS research, patient care and family support for those afflicted by the disease, a cause near to their hearts.

Artsy Ball: The 2012 Visionary Ball

On November 2nd, a fabulous ball will be held to commemorate and honor one of the art communities’ most valued and respected “outsider” artist. Cleo F. Wilson, a founding member of Intuit and former Executive Director of the company, also spent 25 years at Playboy Foundation while using her powers for good around the Chicago art community to inspire and encourage those around her. The philanthropist and art activist will receive the 2012 Visionary Award for her respected achieved efforts that have helped make Intuit the organization it is today. The organization I’m talking about is of course Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art. At Intuit, they strive to spread their mission of nurturing outsider, self-taught, and unconventional artists. The organization believes in all kinds of artists – whether they are outside of the normal realm of artistry, are self-taught artists or are classically trained.

Dempster Family Foundation’s “Casino Night”

Ryan Dempster is a starting pitcher for the Chicago Cubs and has over thirteen years of MLB experience. He has been with the Cubs for the past eight years! His daughter, Riley, was born in 2009 with the genetic disorder 22q, which prompted him and his wife to start the Dempster Family foundation. The disease is a chromosomal abnormality that causes a very wide range of health issues. Not only does the disease cause developmental issues, but it also is the source of heart defects, autism, and immune system problems. Currently, a cure does not exist and children suffering from the disease require significant medical attention.

Loul Deng Foundation : “Game and Give”

Hi aChicagoThing readers! Lesley De Leon, from Billy Dec's office here. I'd like to take this opportunity to share a very cool event : How cool is it that The Bulls are currently in first place? And...