KidsMatter’s Empower Gala to feature actress, mental health advocate Mariel Hemingway
KidsMatter, Naperville’s youth-oriented organization, is hosting its 2025 Empower Gala with the theme, “Dream. Believe. Become” on Saturday, Nov. 15, at Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Naperville.
It will feature special guest Mariel Hemingway, an accomplished actress, author and mental health advocate whose work to promote well-being and authenticity aligns with KidsMatter’s mission.
The evening of celebration also kicks off KidsMatter’s 25th anniversary year, highlighting a quarter-century of work to build resilient kids who say “NO” to destructive choices and “YES” to endless possibilities.
Alan Krashesky, retired ABC7 Chicago anchor and Naperville resident, will emcee the program. Krashesky is known as a trusted voice in Chicago news, having shared major stories with viewers across the area for more than 40 years; and he has a long history of volunteering his personal time to community service.
Hemingway, who has been nominated for an Emmy, an Academy Award and two Golden Globes for her work as an actress, also has made significant contributions as an author and mental health advocate.
She has written six books, including “Healthy Living from the Inside Out” and “Out Came the Sun,” a memoir that addresses her family’s struggles with addiction and mental health.
Hemingway is excited to join for the evening, and KidsMatter is grateful to her as we build awareness and support for programs to empower young people to dream, believe and become.
Hemingway’s special guest appearance is only one highlight of this year’s Empower Gala, which also will include a welcoming reception with inspiring student performances, a live auction, dinner and paddle-raise during the main program, and plenty of music and celebration to mark the beginning of KidsMatter’s 25th year.
Attendees will hear powerful, first-hand stories from students whose lives have been transformed through KidsMatter programs, experiences and support. The generosity of gala guests also will help fuel programs that build confident, resilient kids — empowered to realize their purpose, know their value and discover their pathway.
Individual tickets, tables of 10 and sponsorships for the Empower Gala are now available and are selling fast. For details, to become a gala sponsor or to purchase tickets, visit kidsmatter2us.org/empower/.