Luncheon in Rolling Meadows to honor Community Champions and support families Oct. 29
When a family in Rolling Meadows faces its hardest moment, the Hope Fund is there. On Thursday, Oct. 29, the community is invited to gather, connect and celebrate the people who make that possible at the 2026 Celebration of Hope: Hope Grows Here luncheon, hosted by the city’s Department of Human Services.
The luncheon runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at LaMirage Banquets, 3223 W. Algonquin Road, Rolling Meadows.
Every ticket directly supports the Hope Fund, which provides relocation support for survivors escaping violence, emergency funding for recovery-related expenses and financial relief for families navigating crisis.
“The Hope Fund is one of the most meaningful ways our community takes care of its own,” Mayor Lara Sanoica said. “When you buy a ticket, you’re helping a neighbor start over safely, and you’re sitting at a table with the people who make Rolling Meadows the kind of place where no one faces a crisis alone.”
Honoring two community champions
This year’s Hope Awards recognize two exceptional community partners whose generosity, leadership and commitment have made a meaningful difference for Rolling Meadows families and children.
Rachel Noltner, CEO of Arlington Area Education Community Credit Union, is being recognized for her commitment to helping Rolling Meadows families build greater financial stability. Under Noltner’s leadership, AAEC created a special program to expand financial opportunities for local residents. Noltner and her team have also become valued partners in the community through financial literacy workshops, Mobile Food Pantry events and holiday giving efforts.
Renee Urbanski, assistant superintendent of multilingual programs for Community Consolidated School District 15, is being recognized for her longstanding commitment to Rolling Meadows children and families. Urbanski has consistently stepped up to help expand access to youth programs, family events, tutoring, summer camps and other community opportunities, making her a trusted and generous partner to the city.
“Rachel and Renee show us what true partnership looks like,” said Human Services Director Dr. Natalia Nieves, who also serves as president and chairwoman of the Hope Fund. “They believe that every child deserves opportunities, every family deserves support, and every person deserves to feel that they belong. The Hope Award recognizes not only what they have done, but the hope they have helped create.”
Where connections become community
Celebration of Hope is an opportunity to meet the people who shape Rolling Meadows. Guests will share the room with local business owners, school and nonprofit leaders, city officials and engaged residents, all united by a shared commitment to their neighbors.
Residents, businesses and community groups are welcome. Admission is $55 per person. Tickets and more information are available at cityrm.org/948/Hope-Fund. Purchase tickets by Oct. 16.
Rolling Meadows Human Services thanks the following individuals and organizations for their generous sponsorship of this year’s event:
Diamond Sponsors: Arlington Area Education Community Credit Union; LaMirage Events; Pasta Di Casa; Rolling Meadows mayor and city council; Village Bank & Trust; Walmart
Platinum Sponsors: IAT Insurance; Motorola Foundation; Peace Industries/Spotnails
Gold Sponsors: 180 Chicago; Advance Preschool; Alero Financial; Bear Construction; Law Office of RSB Ltd.; Law Offices of Sandra Stermer Coscino P.C.; Northwest Suburban College; Rolling Meadows Library; Shamrock Fire Protection
Silver Sponsors: Iglesia TuFamilia; Lulu’s; MJ Hospitality; Partners on the Path; Rep’s Place; School District 214 Foundation; Storino, Ramello & Durkin; Sue Walton
Bronze Sponsors: Banyan Treatment Centers; Land Surveying Services Inc.; Rolling Meadows Park District; Rolling Meadows Police Association; Suburban Accents; We Never Walk Alone
Sponsorship opportunities remain available. Contact hopefund@cityrm.org to learn more.
The Rolling Meadows Hope Fund, administered by the city’s Department of Human Services, provides direct financial support to residents facing crisis, including relocation assistance for survivors of violence, emergency help with recovery-related expenses, and relief for families in difficult circumstances. Learn more at cityrm.org/948/HopeFund.