FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Holly Dorn
Director of Development
HDorn@hosparrow.org – (815) 271 5444 ext. 224

Crystal Lake, IL – Home of the Sparrow (HOS) invites the community to step right up and experience an unforgettable evening of inspiration, elegance, and purpose at its annual gala, “A Million Dreams: From Hope to Home.” This year’s vintage carnival-themed celebration will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Holiday Inn in Crystal Lake.

Inspired by the song “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, the evening captures the spirit of possibility, perseverance in the face of adversity, and transformation. Much like a classic carnival where imagination takes center stage, this gala celebrates the dreams of the individuals and families served by Home of the Sparrow—dreams of stability, opportunity, and a place to call home.

Guests will be transported into a nostalgic carnival atmosphere beginning with a cocktail hour at 6:00 p.m., featuring themed decor and entertainment. The evening continues with an elegant dinner, wine service, and an open bar offering craft cocktails. Attendees will also enjoy live entertainment, along with engaging auctions and raffles featuring exclusive items and one-of-a-kind experiences.

“This evening is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with compassion,” said Holly Dorn, Director of Development at Home of the Sparrow. “While guests enjoy a memorable and engaging night, they are also helping shine a light on the realities of homelessness and create meaningful change for the individuals and families we serve.”

Tickets are $150 per individual, $1,100 for a table of eight, or $1,300 for a table of ten. Seating is limited, and early reservations are encouraged.

Proceeds from the event directly support Home of the Sparrow’s mission to provide transitional shelter, housing programs, rental assistance, outreach, and case management services to women, children, and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Event Details:

What: A Million Dreams: From Hope to Home Charity Gala
When: Friday, September 18, 2026 – Cocktail Hour at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Holiday Inn, 800 S. Illinois Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL
Tickets: $150 individual | $1,100 table of 8 | $1,300 table of 10
Info & Tickets: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/hosgala2026/

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Home of the Sparrow provides a Transitional Shelter, Housing Programs, Rental Assistance, Outreach, and Case Management services to women and children experiencing homelessness and operates seven resale stores in Northern Illinois. Revenue from the stores goes back into supporting Home of the Sparrow’s mission: To reduce the prevalence of homelessness among women, children, families, and individuals through creative strategies and community partnerships that result in lasting self-sufficiency. For a list of services and store hours, please visit our website at: www.HOSparrow.org or “Home of the Sparrow, Inc.” on Facebook.