Whiskey Tasting
Timeline: February - April
Event Date: April
Event Summary
Child Link’s Annual Whiskey Tasting is a signature spring event that brings together community members, supporters, and new friends for a memorable evening of fine whiskey, fun, and impact. Hosted at a unique venues, guests have the opportunity to enjoy: a curated tasting of premium whiskeys, light bites, raffles, games, and donor spotlights. The evening is a celebration of community generosity and support for youth in care. Funds raised directly benefit Child Link’s mission to provide vital resources, programs, and stability for children and young adults in the child welfare system.
Participation Details
- Provide venue and tasting nominations
- Assist with promotion and support of the event
- Help secure silent auction items and/or sponsorships Volunteer assistance during the event to engage attendees
- Volunteer assistance during the event to engage attendees
Leadership Luncheon Committee
Timeline: April - June
Event Date: June
Event Summary
Child Link’s annual Leadership Luncheon is a heartfelt celebration of the resilience and success of youth in our care. The event honors youth in care who have achieved the incredible milestone of graduating high school despite the challenges of growing up in the child welfare system. It also recognizes outstanding leaders across Chicagoland who are working to improve our communities and support children and families. Guests enjoy lunch, inspiring speeches, an award ceremony, and a closer look at the real impact Child Link has on the lives of youth in care. This event is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together to believe in and support its young people.
Participation Details
- Nominate youth and local leaders for recognition
- Help with venue nominations and basic organization
- Promote and attend event to show support
School Supplies Drive
Timeline: Late June - Mid August
Event Date: Mid August
Event Summary
Child Link’s School Supplies Drive helps ensure that youth in care begin the school year with the tools they need to thrive. Many of the children and teens we support start the year without access to basic school supplies, which can create barriers to learning, confidence, and connection in the classroom. By donating backpacks filled with essential items like notebooks, pencils, and folders, supporters provide more than just materials. They offer encouragement and show our youth that they are seen, supported, and valued. Every backpack helps create a stronger start and a brighter future for a young person in care.
Participation Details
- Promote drive on social media and in person
- Host or partner with local businesses or schools
- Help collect, sort, and distribute supplies
5K for Foster Youth
Pilsen, Chicago
Timeline: July – September
Event Date: Late September
Event Summary
Child Link’s 5K for Foster Youth is a vibrant community event designed to bring people together for fun, fitness, and a powerful cause. Held annually in Pilsen, Chicago, this family-friendly run encourages participants of all ages and abilities to join in supporting youth in the foster care system. Runners and walkers are invited to register individually or as teams, with friends and family encouraged to sponsor their efforts. Each step taken and every dollar raised directly benefits programs that provide critical resources and support to children and young adults in care. The 5K is not only a chance to get active but also an opportunity to stand together in support of foster youth and their futures.
Participation Details
- Share registration links and posters
- Organize or join run/walk teams
- Volunteer day-of (check-in, water stations, cheering zones)
- Help promote at community events or schools
Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Tasting
(La Grange, IL)
Timeline: September – November
Event Date: 3rd Thursday of November
Event Summary
Child Link’s Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Tasting is not only a festive and meaningful evening but also our largest event of the year. This event takes place each November in downtown La Grange. Celebrating the annual release of Beaujolais Nouveau wine, this event also serves as the official kickoff to our Holiday Toy Drive. Guests are invited to stroll through 8 to 10 of La Grange’s most beloved restaurants and shops, creating a lively wine walk experience. Each location offers wine tastings and light bites, along with the opportunity to learn about a different aspect of Child Link’s work. From how to become a foster parent to the importance of counseling services and ways to support our holiday efforts, attendees leave with a deeper understanding of our mission.This evening combines great wine, local flavor, and community connection, all in support of children and youth in care. Proceeds from the event directly benefit Child Link’s programs and help ensure every child we serve feels supported during the holiday season and beyond.
Participation Details
- Volunteer at Farmers Markets and various community events for event promotion
- Hang flyers, assist with event logistics
- Work a location during the event to engage attendees
- Help secure silent auction items and/or sponsorships
Holiday Toy Drive
Timeline: October 15 – December 10
Event Date: Mid December
Event Summary
Child Link’s Holiday Toy Drive is a heartfelt campaign aimed at bringing joy and comfort to youth in care during the holiday season. Many children and teens in the child welfare system face the holidays without the stability or resources most families enjoy. This drive helps ensure they receive gifts and essential items that brighten their celebrations.
Supporters are invited to donate new toys and gifts or host collection drives in their communities, workplaces, or schools. Every donation helps create a sense of belonging and hope for children who need it most. The Holiday Toy Drive culminates in a season of giving, community partnership, and celebration, reminding each child that they are valued, seen, and loved.
Participation Details
- Host or organize a toy collection drive
- Coordinate partnerships with local businesses or schools
- Join us at the Beaujolais Nouveau Celebration for the official kick off collection and encourage attendees to participate
- Promote on social media or within personal/professional organizations
- Help wrap toys
