Date:

Saturday, September 13, 2025

Time:

5:30pm-9pm

Location:

• Encore Events (Willow Grand Ballroom)

4555 W. Yorkhouse Road
Wadsworth, Illinois 60083

Attire:

• Black-Tie & Elegant Event

Gala Mission:

The mission of Employee Connections is to empower youth and young adults in Lake County, IL, by helping them realize and reach their full potential. We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed, which is why we provide meaningful work experience and holistic wraparound support services. These services not only address immediate job readiness but also focus on personal and professional growth, offering guidance in areas such as education, skill-building, and mental health support. By partnering with local organizations, we connect youth and young adults to community resources that help them navigate challenges and build the confidence they need to thrive in today’s workforce.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that these young individuals have access to the critical resources that will help them succeed. To make this possible, we aim to raise funds for essentials like scholarships, uniform assistance, transportation, tuition assistance, emergency aid, and more.

By supporting our mission, you will be helping these young people overcome barriers and step into a future full of possibilities.

We invite our community to join us in this important cause, as we work together to lift up the youth of Lake County and help them achieve the bright future they are working so hard to attain. Together, we can make a lasting impact and change lives for the better.

2024 Gala Video

Video

2024 Gala Gallery

Gallery

Eventbrite Early Bird Sales January 1, 2025 to April 30, 2025

• Eventbrite

Eventbrite Regular Sales May 1, 2025 to August 30, 2025

• Eventbrite

PayPal:

PayPal Link



Zelle: • (224)321-9397



Sponsorship & Ad Space Information:

Sponsorship & Ad Space Packet

Donation Request:

If you, or your company, would like to donate items to the gala's silent auction please contact Stephanie Nance at (847)360-7177. We ask that all donations are received by August 30, 2025 for preparation.

Thank you for your generosity and support!