Chicago History Museum
1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | 11:30 AM CDT
2026 Beacon of Hope
The Future of Community
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Bridgeport Art Center
1601 N Clark St
Chicago, IL 60614
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
11:30 AM CDT
2026 Gala Countdown
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What does it mean to belong?
Beacon of Hope is one of the signature events hosted by Marillac Saint Vincent (MSV), bringing together civic, business, philanthropic, and community leaders for a conversation about the future of Chicago’s neighborhoods. Today’s communities face real challenges, from economic uncertainty to social isolation and widening opportunity gaps. The question isn’t whether collaboration matters, it’s how leaders across sectors can work together to create lasting change.
This year’s theme, The Future of Community, explores how relationships, belonging, civic engagement, and strong community institutions build neighborhoods where children and families can thrive. A moderated panel brings together voices from business, government, healthcare, education, philanthropy, and the nonprofit sector for a candid conversation about the work ahead. More than a luncheon, Beacon of Hope reflects MSV’s role as a trusted community partner, creating space for dialogue and shared commitment to a Chicago where every child and family has the opportunity to flourish.
What to expect
Engaging Panel Discussion
Local leaders, experts, and changemakers share real-world experience on how neighborhoods, employers, organizations, and faith groups are actively creating spaces where people feel seen and valued.
Inspiration and Actionable Insight
Discover practical approaches to addressing social isolation and building belonging across Chicago, leaving with renewed hope and ideas you can bring back to your own community.
Networking and Community
Connect over a plated luncheon with fellow supporters and organizational leaders dedicated to helping Chicago’s families thrive.
“Not just another luncheon! This gathering has brought me ideas that I want to include in my own life – conversations with people who are living proof that everything is possible when we work together.”
Robin Robinson, Featured Moderator
Meet the voices
Hear from Chicago leaders shaping how our neighborhoods build connection, opportunity, and belonging.
Hon. Walter Burnett Jr.
Civic & Neighborhood Leadership, Former Alderman | 27th Ward
Kandace Lenti
Executive Vice President – Government, Non-Profit & Healthcare, Wintrust
Dan Walsh
Philanthropy, Development & Industry Leadership, Walsh Construction & Walsh Family Foundation
Your presence makes a difference
Your presence at Beacon of Hope is more than an afternoon out, it’s a vote of confidence in a Chicago where every family has access to the relationships and resources they need to thrive.
Support like yours helps MSV:
Strengthen children and families through education
and support services
Connect families to essential resources and food programs
Open pathways toward economic mobility
Provide holistic care across generations
Join us October 21
19th Annual Beacon of Hope Lunch-In: The Future of Community
Be part of the conversation shaping the future of Chicago’s communities.
About Marillac Saint Vincent
For more than 100 years, Marillac Saint Vincent (MSV) has been dedicated to the well-being of Chicagoans. Founded by the Daughters of Charity in 1914 and 1915, MSV provides intergenerational and intersectional services that promote stability, dignity, and upward mobility.
Through holistic programming that supports mind, body, and spirit, MSV serves children, youth, families, and seniors across more than 20 Chicago zip codes, including East and West Garfield Park, Austin, North Lawndale, and the Near West Side.
We believe in the dignity and power of human potential. We exist to help people progress from surviving to thriving.
Unlock Priority Access!
Questions?
For more information, please email