SOS Illinois Honors Alex Pissios of Cinespace Chicago Film Studios for Distinguished Community Leadership
Last week, SOS Children's Villages Illinois staff, board members, corporate partners, and friends gathered at Drinker Biddle & Reath for its Annual Meeting. This year, the organization shared how it is making state-of-the-heart developments for children in foster care, introduced the celebration of our 30th anniversary, and honored exceptional partners and individuals in business and leadership for their contributions to our community. Ted Selogie, General Manager of Swissôtel Chicago, offered the keynote address.
During the meeting, five individuals and businesses were recognized by SOS Children's Villages Illinois for their tremendous contributions and dedication to the children and families served by SOS Illinois. Alex Pissios, President of Cinespace Chicago Film Studio, was presented with the Distinguished Community Leadership Award during the "State of the Heart" program.
"Alex embodies what it means to provide thoughtful, community-first leadership in business," said SOS Illinois CEO, Tim McCormick. "Whether he is putting Chicago on the map with high-quality film and television productions at Cinespace; engaging with the SOS Illinois President's Council; or, participating as a Dining & Conversation Luminary, Alex is widely known for his immense kindness, generosity, and commitment to building a better Chicago. We are delighted to present him with an award that highlights his community leadership," he added.
Additional 2019 Honorees were: Chicago Yacht Club (Making a Difference Award), Bert Brandt - Lendlease (Distinguished Business Leadership Award), Alex Pissios - Cinespace (2019 Distinguished Community Leadership Award), Mike Landers - Sodexo USA (Distinguished Corporate Leadership Award), Minnie Reed (Foster Parent Caring for Children Award - 24 years of service).
To learn more about how SOS Illinois accomplished providing over 1.3 million hours of care to children and families; caring for over 500 children at our Villages and surrounding communities; supporting 69 children as transitioned into "forever homes"; hiring 11 new Foster Parents; reaching over 1.5 million people on our social media channels; raising $1.8 million through donations, events, and corporate partnerships; celebrating a 100% high school graduation for the fourteenth year in a row, and many more notable successes in 2019, visit the website at sosillinois.org.