Changing Rules. Changing Lives.

On April 11, 2024, 300 changemakers gathered to celebrate our advocacy achievements. Together, we raised over $400,000 in critical funds to continue the fight for racial and economic justice.

Throughout the night, we heard inspiring words from leaders including Audra Wilson, the Shriver Center on Poverty Law’s president and CEO. She recalled our historic victories — expanding health insurance to all children in Illinois, for one — and the need to stay vigilant against efforts to maintain the status quo. “We’re up against highly coordinated attacks to roll back civil rights, roll out disinformation, and revise history,” said Wilson. She also reminded us that the gala theme “Changing Rules. Changing Lives.” is a renewed promise to continue rewriting laws and policies so that everyone can thrive, not just a few.

LaTanya Jackson Wilson, the Shriver Center’s vice president of advocacy, used her time onstage to draw attention to the child welfare system. Black families are disproportionately harmed in a system that often equates neglect with poverty.

Jackson Wilson had the honor of presenting our first-ever Everyday Warrior award to Carmyn, a young woman on the frontlines helping youth every day. Her own experience in the system highlights the invaluable role that people with lived experience play in creating change.

Keynote speaker Chris Singleton ended the evening with humor and optimism. After a devastating tragedy in 2015, he has devoted his life to sharing a vision of hope and healing in a deeply divided America.

For more photos, see our 2024 Annual Gala: Changing Rules. Changing Lives. photo album. We rely on your support to continue our work. Join our movement by making a donation today.