Rolling Meadows Department of Human Services raises over $35,000 at Celebration of Hope
The City of Rolling Meadows Department of Human Services hosted its annual Celebration of Hope luncheon recently at the Meridian Banquet Hall, bringing together more than 150 community members, businesses and partners in support of the Hope Fund, the City’s Crisis Assistance Fund. The event raised over $35,000 in just two hours to help residents facing emergencies such as crime, trauma, medical crises and other unexpected hardships.
Led by the Department of Human Services, the Celebration of Hope reflects the City’s commitment to providing compassionate, rapid support to residents in need. The Hope Fund is administered by the department and provides emergency financial relief to survivors of crime and families impacted by crisis.
Dr. Natalia Nieves, Founder and President of the Hope Fund and Director of the Department of Human Services, opened the program with remarks highlighting the power of partnerships and the importance of economic empowerment in building resilience. She recognized the generosity of sponsors and community partners whose support fuels the department’s ability to assist residents at critical moments.
Diamond Sponsors included AAEC Credit Union, Meijer in Rolling Meadows, and Walmart in Rolling Meadows. Platinum Sponsors were the City of Rolling Meadows Mayor and City Council, Motorola Foundation, and Rob Koshkarian. Gold Sponsors included Village Bank and Trust in Rolling Meadows, Linda Antoinetti State Farm, and Advance Preschool. Silver sponsors included Lavelle Law, Storino, Ramello & Durkin, Law Office of RSB, The Rolling Meadows Library, School District 214, Plum Creek Senior Living, Saluyita, Izucar Bakery, Sue Walton, Silver Lining, Roses by Moses and TuFamilia Church.
Senator Karina Villa delivered a keynote address on the connection between mental health and social services, echoing the department’s trauma-informed approach to community care. The Hope Fund and Department of Human Services also recognized outstanding community leadership through several awards.
Senator Mark Walker received the Public Service GOAT Award, meaning Greatest of All Time, for his extraordinary leadership and lasting contributions to establishing a comprehensive, trauma-informed Human Services Department that prioritizes mental health, crisis response and community wellness.
Laura Garcia of the Rolling Meadows Library received the Hope Award for her dedication to empowering residents through digital literacy, creating safe spaces for children and families, and fostering connection and trust throughout the community.
“The success of the Celebration of Hope demonstrates what can happen when a community comes together with compassion and purpose,” Dr. Nieves said. “Through the Hope Fund, we are ensuring that no resident faces crisis alone and that every act of giving directly transforms lives.”
The Department of Human Services continues to lead efforts that strengthen safety, healing, and resilience throughout Rolling Meadows. Through programs, partnerships and direct crisis response, the department and the Hope Fund remain steadfast in their mission to provide a helping hand toward a brighter future.