EVANSTON, Ill. – The Cradle is excited to be named as the Chicago Pride Parade beneficiary for the Chicago Spirit Brigade, a community-based fundraising organization, a first for the non-sectarian, nonprofit, licensed child welfare agency. The Cradle proudly supports a diverse and inclusive community, ensuring that every person has the right to be their authentic selves. The organization is committed to providing services and resources to all families and affirming and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
The Cradle has facilitated more than 16,000 adoptions since its establishment in 1923 and has been at the forefront of placements with LGBTQ+ identifying families. The Cradle began placing children with LGBTQ+ families in 2001, more than 15 years before adoptions by same-sex couples became legal in all 50 states.
Since then, The Cradle has facilitated 210 adoptions with LGBTQ+ families through its domestic adoption program. The Cradle and the Chicago Spirit Brigade’s participation in the Chicago Pride Parade further solidifies their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
“We are thrilled to join the celebration of Chicago Pride and affirm our core values of inclusivity and compassion, while raising funds for family-building services like adoption placements, options counseling for people experiencing unplanned pregnancies, parenting education, adoption-competent therapy and more,” said Kristina Lederer, The Cradle’s Vice President of Development. “With the help of friends and supporters who march alongside us and live these shared values, we strive to create a nurturing community where every child and family feels unconditionally loved, celebrated for who they are, and empowered to grow and thrive.”
Since 2003, the Chicago Spirit Brigade has been actively supporting organizations that provide direct care services to individuals going through life-altering situations in the Chicagoland area. As a beneficiary, the funds raised will have a direct impact on The Cradle’s programs, which aim to build families through adoption, support families through life’s challenges, and strengthen communities through education.
“Chicago Spirit Brigade is excited to support The Cradle and build a new community partner. The Cradle’s mission to make adoption accessible to people of all races, genders and sexuality aligns directly with CSB’s mission. This year at the Chicago Pride Parade we are excited to celebrate LGBTQ+ parenting!” said Terra Calamari-Newlin, President of the Chicago Spirit Brigade.
The partnership between the Chicago Spirit Brigade and The Cradle exemplifies the spirit of unity and inclusivity that the Chicago Pride Parade represents. If you are interested in joining these organizations in the parade on June 30, please fill out this form to volunteer and sign up for updates. Proceeds raised before and during the event will enable The Cradle to envision a world where every child thrives in a safe and loving family.
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About The Cradle:
Celebrating 100 years of building families through adoption, The Cradle has facilitated more than 16,000 domestic and international adoptions since its opening in 1923. The organization has been a pioneer in open adoption, African American infant adoption, and placements with LGBTQ+ families. The Cradle remains the only adoption agency in the country with an on-site nursery providing 24-hour care for infants. Learn more at cradle.org or call 847-475-5800. For 24-hour toll-free HELPLINE assistance, call 800-CRADLE4 (800-272-3534).
About Chicago Spirit Brigade:
The Chicago Spirit Brigade is a community-based fundraising organization whose purpose is to raise money and awareness for non-profit groups that provide direct care services to individuals with life-altering challenges.
From a humble beginning of four pioneers, CSB now features over 35 volunteer performers ranging in age from 21 to 50+, who represent a cross section of American demographics. Since its founding as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization almost 20 years ago, CSB has raised more than $100,000 for 30+ Chicagoland and regional non-profit organizations.
Donations are collected at the conclusion of CSB performances by members who pass red “Spirit Buckets” through the crowds. 100% of what is collected in the buckets is tabulated, recorded and goes directly to the designated beneficiary for that performance, with CSB keeping nothing for itself. Learn more about the Chicago Spirit Brigade at chicagospiritbrigade.org.
