ECA Second Annual Fundraiser
Lighting The Way Forward
Lighting the Way Forward 2027 - Sponsorship Tiers
We invite you to join us as a sponsor of our annual fundraiser, Lighting the Way Forward, on January 22, 2027, 5:00-8:00 at Sketchbook Brewery.
This special evening will bring together community leaders, local businesses, and supporters who share a commitment to building a stronger future for our youngest children and their families. With more than 100 guests anticipated and event information reaching thousands of local families, the event offers an opportunity to demonstrate your organization's commitment to the community we all share.
Proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will support two important initiatives:
Family Literacy Program: Helping parents build literacy skills and create enriching learning experiences for their children.
The Basics in Niles Township: Introducing a community-wide approach that equips parents and caregivers with practical, everyday ways to nurture children’s early learning and development from the very beginning.
Your sponsorship will help bring these opportunities to more families while strengthening the network of support that helps our community’s youngest children get the best possible start.
Whether you are a business, nonprofit, public institution, or community organization, your support can help create a community where children, families and future generations can thrive.
"Thank you to all the attendees that braved the wintry cold last Friday to join our festive celebration! The ECA's Inaugural Lighting the Way Forward fundraiser was a huge success, raising over $40,000! Many thanks to our 28 sponsors, J & L Catering for the delicious food, Sketchbook for the great space, and the almost 80 people who attended despite the -30 windchill! We are filled with gratitude for the community support.
In summary, the ECA is working hard to create access for ALL families with young children in Niles Township, by providing language access, direct assistance navigating applications and enrollments, and providing culturally relevant connections to our 49 partner organizations. Our comprehensive outreach strategy seeks to find the families that are not yet connected in our community. We appreciate you spreading the word of our work and referring families who may benefit from our support:
On-site Parent support groups
Individual assistance completing applications, including for financial assistance and other emergency support
Connections to weekly home visiting programs, childcare, preschool programs, early intervention, and developmental screenings
Open play opportunities
Car seat access
To date, we have connected over 329 children with early learning programs - that's 329 children who will be more prepared for success in Kindergarten, experience higher academic achievement, have stronger social skills, have better health outcomes as an adult and reduced crime/health risks later in life. The number of families we are able to assist is increasing thanks to all of your support!
Thank you to our Sponsors
