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2025 Awards Recognition Event and Luncheon
March 11
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A limited number of registrations will be available on-site on the day of the event.
March 11, 2026 | Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile | 540 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Chicago Ballroom ABCDE, 5th floor
Read about the 2025 GMC Award Honorees here!
Schedule*:
11 – 11:45 AM Registration Open
11-11:30 AM – Cash bar open
11:45 – 12:10 PM Welcome & Awards Ceremony12:20 – 1:00 PM Educational Session1:00- 1:30 PM Awards Ceremony & Closing1:30 PM Networking Social
2:00 PM – Marriott Lobby Bar Opens Early (attendees on own for beverages)
*Schedule is subject to change
Parking Information:
Valet Parking
Self-Parking
Self parking: $35 discounted parking vouchers will be available for this garage. Vouchers will be provided at registration
50 East Ohio Street (corner of Rush & Ohio), approximately 0.1 miles north of the hotel
GMC is excited to feature Robin Shear as our Keynote Speaker!
Robin is a TEDx and global joy speaker, author & joy coach. She helps people learn to meet their needs for joy so they can give and lead from a place of fullness. She uses her Joy, NO MATTER WHAT 5-point framework to lay a foundation that will keep audiences in giving and thriving mode. Her speaking clients include PCMA, CEMA, MPI, Northstar Meetings Group, Northwestern Medicine, The National Organization for Human Services, and many others. She’s been interviewed in TIME Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and Psychology Today. Her book, Messy Joy, helps readers find joy in their lives, despite their circumstances. Robin has served as a registered dietitian, youth pastor, and activity director for seniors. She’s the President-Elect of the National Speakers Association of Michigan and was awarded NSA Michigan’s Member of the Year.
GMC is partnering with WINGS for a Suit and Professional Attire Drive!
This Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative centers on the collection of business suits and professional attire to support individuals and families connected to WINGS as they rebuild their lives after domestic violence.
Access to professional clothing is more than a practical need — it is a powerful tool for confidence, dignity, and opportunity.
Donated items will help stock the Career Closets at both of our Safe Houses, ensuring residents have immediate access to professional attire for job interviews, new employment opportunities, court appearances, and other important milestones. For many clients, pursuing employment is a critical step toward long-term safety and economic independence, and having appropriate attire removes a significant financial barrier.
Once the Career Closets are fully stocked and client needs are met, any additional high-quality items will support WINGS Resale, generating revenue that directly funds essential programs and services. Every contribution — whether worn by a client or sold to sustain our mission — continues to empower individuals on their path toward stability and self-sufficiency.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Take a moment to review the sponsorship prospectus for more details and opportunities available throughout the year.
Welcome planners seeking a hosted seat – Planners interested in being hosted can submit a request using our HOSTED PLANNER FORM.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Title Sponsor:
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