Bank The Blue’s Third Annual Fundraising Gala will take place on Friday, October 27, 2023 from 6:30pm to 12:00am at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois.
Bank The Blue’s Fundraising Galas are more than just celebrations; they are crucial fundraising events. The funds raised during our galas directly support Illinois Law Enforcement mental health treatment and training programs.
About the Event
At the heart of Bank The Blue’s Third Annual Fundraising Gala lies a deep appreciation for the police officers who bravely serve our communities.
Scheduled to take place on Friday, October 27, 2023 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, Bank The Blue’s Third Annual Fundraising Gala aims to build awareness surrounding the importance of officer wellness, to combat the stigma associated with officers and mental health, and to fundraise for this important cause.
The evening will begin with a performance of remembrance by the Chicago Police Department Pipes & Drums band, paying tribute to the fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. This Chicago Police Honor Guard tribute will be a poignant reminder of the risks officers face daily and the profound impact of their service on our lives.
Two-time Emmy award winner and Fox32 Chicago reporter Anita Padilla and Fox 32 Chicago top sports anchor Lou Canellis will return to co-host the Gala, with the National Anthem sung by “Chicago’s Original Voice of the National Anthem,” Wayne Messmer. The gala includes a dinner of chef-prepared local cuisine, an open bar, music, dancing, a live auction, raffles and more. Over 1,000 individuals from both the law enforcement and civilian communities are anticipated to attend.
Last year, Bank The Blue’s sold-out fundraising gala surpassed expectations, raising over $220,000 to bolster mental health treatment and training programs for police officers in Illinois.
Raising Funds to Support Law Enforcement Mental Health Treatment and Training Programs
In a world where law enforcement officers dedicate their lives to serving and protecting communities, a night to honor their bravery and sacrifice becomes more than just a gala; it becomes an expression of gratitude and support. While the gala is a night of celebration, it is also a crucial fundraising event to provide much-needed support for law enforcement. The gala committee has curated a series of initiatives to raise funds for mental health treatment and training programs for our police heroes.
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- Silent Auction: Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on exclusive items generously donated by local businesses and sponsors. From luxury getaways to rare collectibles, the silent auction promises an exhilarating experience, knowing that every winning bid goes towards supporting the police force.
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- Fund-A-Need Campaign: This initiative allows guests to make direct donations to specific projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing officer training and well-being. Attendees will have the chance to learn more about these projects and understand the tangible impact of their contributions.
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- Raffle Draws: In the spirit of excitement and camaraderie, the gala will feature raffle draws for enticing prizes donated by event sponsors. With each raffle ticket purchased, attendees can contribute to the greater cause of supporting and empowering the police force.
- Corporate Sponsorships: The gala committee has been successful in securing partnerships with local businesses and corporations that have a vested interest in promoting community safety. These corporate sponsorships will bolster the fundraising efforts and foster a sense of collective responsibility in supporting our police heroes.
The funds raised at this year’s Gala will enable us to further develop initiatives to train law enforcement officers surrounding their mental health and recognizing when either they, or a fellow officer is struggling.
Bank The Blue’s Third Annual Fundraising Gala is not just an event; it is an expression of gratitude and appreciation for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for us every day. The stage is set for an unforgettable night of unity, gratitude, and hope—a night that will leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attend and a lasting impact on the lives of those who protect and serve our communities.
About Bank The Blue
Bank The Blue, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides funding for and access to mental health services for Illinois law enforcement officers who face tremendous stress due to constant exposure to violence and trauma. According to mental health experts, the rate for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression among police officers is five times higher than that of the civilian population and often goes untreated. Local departments alone are unable to provide the mental health wellness services that their officers so desperately need. Bank The Blue’s efforts are implemented in partnership with certified mental health providers who specialize in trauma therapy, crisis management, and evidence-based therapies that are oriented for the unique needs of first responders.
The partnership between mental health providers and Bank the Blue establishes a network of resources that promote the resiliency and mental wellness of Law Enforcement Officers. These partnerships enable police officers to be proactive in their mental and behavioral health. Bank the Blue safeguards all officers’ privacy and confidentiality at all times.
Bank The Blue was launched in March 2020 by a group of Chicago business professionals with close ties to the law enforcement community. Bank The Blue is governed by a diverse and distinguished board of law enforcement, business and community leaders.
Bank The Blue Stats for 2022-2023
33+ Illinois Police Officers Currently Receiving Treatment
350+ Therapy Sessions Currently Scheduled
1,000+ Illinois Police Officers Trained in the Fatal 10 Factors of Law Enforcement Suicide
20+ Retired Illinois Police Officers Trained to Make Roll Call Visits