Cocktails for a Cause Raises More Than $360,000 for Mental Health Services
It was an evening of inspiration, generosity, and shared purpose as more than 200 guests gathered at The Glen View Club for Josselyn’s annual Cocktails for a Cause fundraiser.
Attendees sipped signature cocktails and enjoyed light bites and canapés while raising over $360,000 to support Josselyn’s expanding mental health services across Lake and Cook Counties. The night celebrated the power of community partnerships and the life-changing impact of accessible mental health care.
Guests were deeply moved by stories of hope, including remarks from featured speaker Seamus Collins, Josselyn Board Member and President Northwestern Medicine Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital. Collins spoke about the growing partnership between Northwestern Medicine and Josselyn, emphasizing how collaboration strengthens the ability to meet rising mental health needs in the community.
The evening also featured a powerful client story from Hilary, a young survivor of the Highland Park parade tragedy who turned to Josselyn for help in the aftermath of trauma. For more than three years, Hilary has worked with her Josselyn clinician to process her experiences, rebuild her confidence, and rediscover a sense of safety and joy. Her story captured the courage it takes to seek help and the profound difference that compassionate care can make.
“Hilary’s journey reminds us why we do this work,” said Josselyn CEO and President Susan Resko. “Behind every number, there is a person, a story, and a renewed sense of hope. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, we can continue to make mental health care accessible to anyone who needs it, regardless of their ability to pay.”
Funds raised through Cocktails for a Cause will benefit Josselyn’s comprehensive mental health services, including therapy, psychiatry, crisis support, and specialized programs for youth and families. With more than 8,000 clients served annually and need continuing to rise, community support plays an essential role in ensuring that help is always available.
“This night reflects the best of our community,” Resko added. “It shows what can happen when people come together around a shared belief that everyone deserves access to mental health support. We are so grateful to our partners, our board, and every guest who helped make this year’s event such a success.”
Cocktails for a Cause served as both a celebration of progress and a call to continue investing in the mental well-being of our communities. We are closing in on our aggressive goal and there is still time to help us reach it! Every gift, no matter the size, brings us closer to expanding mental health services for those who need them most. Donations can be made here through mid-November.
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