Bridge Communities celebrating ‘Transforming Lives’ at 16th annual spring luncheon

Posted April 20, 2026 4:13 pm

By Andrew Baumann, Bridge Communities

Bridge Communities invites the community to its 16th annual “Celebrating Women, Transforming Lives” spring luncheon on Friday, May 15, at the historic Danada House in Wheaton.

It begins with a champagne reception at 11 a.m., followed by the luncheon and program from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

This inspiring celebration honors women who have overcome homelessness through the Bridge program, as well as community champions who have dedicated themselves to transforming lives across DuPage County.

Now in its 16th year, the luncheon has become a beloved event among those committed to ending family homelessness in the region.

This year, two remarkable women will be recognized.

Dr. Amy Stoeffler, an OB/GYN and philanthropist, will receive the Transforming Lives Award in recognition of her exceptional community service and distinguished work as a healthcare professional.

Kiara Goodwin, a Bridge Communities graduate, will receive the Lives Transformed Award for her personal achievements and her continued commitment to giving back to others.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to join The Monarch Society by making donations that directly fund housing and critical services for women facing homelessness. A gift of $500 or more qualifies you as a member of the Monarch Society. A $1,000 donation provides one month of housing.

Thanks to a generous matching gift from Duly Health and Care Charitable Fund, every dollar donated in honor of the luncheon will be matched, doubling the impact of each contribution.

The luncheon is presented by Perma-Seal Basement Systems, Inc. Proceeds support Bridge Communities’ mission of empowering families to overcome homelessness.

Purchase tickets by May 10. Tickets are $90 or $120 for a VIP ticket. Tickets and registration information are available on Bridge Communities’ website at bridgecommunities.org/news-events/events/celebrating-women-transforming-lives.

Bridge Communities is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide housing, mentoring and supportive services to families facing homelessness in DuPage County. Bridge Communities’ vision is a community where all families have safe, sustainable, and affordable housing and life-long self-sufficiency. For more information, visit bridgecommunities.org.