For Immediate Release
November 15, 2018
Contact:
Carol Simler
President & CEO
630.682.3846, ext 2310
csimler@dupagepads.org
DuPagePads 16th Annual Wake Up Your Spirit Breakfast
WHEATON, IL – On Wednesday, November 7th, 400 attendees gathered at Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn for DuPagePads’ annual inspirational breakfast. This 16th annual event raised over $110,000 for programs and services to help people move from a pad on the floor, to a key in the door!
Carol Simler, President & CEO of DuPagePads highlighted new developments and the agency’s vision for the future. DuPagePads client, Demetrius, a father of five who had to leave his car manufacturing job after being diagnosed with kidney failure, shared how DuPagePads assisted them to stable housing. Keynote speaker, Marcus Engel, completed the program with his story of the insurmountable obstacles he faced after a drunk driver struck his car. Marcus shared life lessons which have created the “I’m Here” movement that inspires thousands every day.
Every year the agency selects an individual that is dedicated to DuPagePads and its mission of ending homelessness in our community. Joel Weinberger received this honor and was presented the sixth annual Spirit Award by Board Chair, Valerie Jungels and Diamond Sponsor, Forum Financial. Joel previously served on the DuPagePads Board of Directors and is now a board advisor and marketing committee member. He has been a long-time Pads Partner and his company, Continental Motors of Naperville is a Platinum-level sponsor. He created the Drive for 95 event which has raised $723,000 over the past eight years. Carol shared that Joel is “humble, hardworking and a great leader who has shared his skills and expertise while inspiring others to advance our mission.”
Other generous sponsors for DuPagePads Wake Up Your Spirit Breakfast include: BMO Harris Bank; Dan Wolf Automotive Group; First Trust Portfolios; Republic Bank; Maclyn; Sullivan Taylor, Gumina & Palmer, P.C.; Tuk Tuk Naperville; Wheaton Bank & Trust; Advanced Data Technologies; AT&T; Byline Bank; Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home; Northwestern Medicine; Pariveda Solutions; PowerForward DuPage and Richards Graphic Communications.
Proceeds from the Wake Up Your Spirit Breakfast will provide crucial support services to families and individuals who are homeless as they work toward a place to call home. For more information, visit www.dupagepads.org.
With over 30 years of service, DuPagePads is the largest provider of services to those who are homeless in DuPage County. DuPagePads’ solution to ending homelessness is housing, coupled with support services and employment to transform lives. The administration office is located at 601 West Liberty, Wheaton, IL 60187. Additional information can be obtained by contacting DuPagePads at 630.682.3846 or at www.dupagepads.org.