10 Reasons Why You Don’t Want to Miss This Year’s Gala

Our gala isn’t just a celebration – it’s a night filled with culture, community, creativity and connection. Whether you’re coming to honor Linda Yu, support meaningful work or simply enjoy a fun evening out, here are all the reasons you’ll want to come to our 2026 Gala Knots of Wisdom: Threads of Legacy, Leaders of Change.  

This year, we proudly honor Linda Yu for her decades of advocacy and representation on behalf of the AANHPI community. A special tribute video, assembled with the support of ABC 7 Chicago, will celebrate her extraordinary legacy.  

But the most meaningful tribute will come from you.  

Inspired by the traditional Chinese red envelope tree, our Gratitude Tree invites guests to write a personal note or memory. Each message will become part of a keepsake presented to Linda at the end of the evening, representing a collective expression of appreciation from the community she has uplifted for years.  

Can’t make the gala? You can still leave a message for Linda here! 

For guests seeking an elevated start to the night, the VIP reception – made possible by the generous support of Busey Bank – offers an intimate culinary experience.  

Enjoy curated bites from celebrated Chicago chefs:  

• Beverly Kim of Parachute and Anelya  

• Billy Dec of Sunda  

• Tony Hu of Lao Sze Chuan 

You’ll also have the opportunity to craft your own custom matcha at our interactive station – whisked and personalized to your taste.  

And let’s be honest: matcha always tastes better when you make it yourself.  

For those who cannot make the VIP reception, do not fear! Uni Uni will be offering boba at the end of the night for all guests! 

Winning a luxury experience feels good. Winning one while supporting your community feels even better.  

This year’s auction – presented with dynamic digital displays courtesy of World Wide Technology – features exclusive experiences designed to inspire.  

Highlights include a private museum tour at the Field Museum, an intimate dinner party for eight from Flying Food Group and more.  

Every bid directly supports programs that empower families, educate youth and strengthen neighborhoods. Your generosity doesn’t just win you a prize – it fuels opportunity for others.  

Culture takes center stage throughout the evening.  

The classic lion dance- underwritten by Taft Law – brings vibrant movement and symbolism of good fortune and prosperity. Guests will also witness the breath-taking Bian Lian performance sponsored by Irene Zhanglin – where artists switch intricately designed masks in a matter of seconds.  

With elegant floral design by Sweet Floral, the atmosphere transforms into a living celebration of heritage and storytelling passed down through the generation  

After the program concludes, the real party begins.  

With music presented by the Chicago Asian Network, the dance floor opens for a high-energy close to the evening. Whether you have signature moves or simply enthusiastic energy, we want to see you out there! 

A room filled with 400 + nonprofit leaders, social impact professionals, entrepreneurs and media representatives isn’t just a party – it’s an opportunity.  

The conversations you start at your dinner table or on the dance floor could lead to partnerships, collaborations, mentorships or friendships. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network or simply meet others who care about the same causes you do, our gala will bring together people who are passionate about community impact.  

How often do you get the chance to truly dress up? 

The gala is your excuse to pull out that outfit you’ve been saving – the bold statement piece, the elegant gown, the sharp tux, the look that makes you feel confident and radiant. 

From our red-carpet step-and-repeat experience underwritten by CNA to custom event signage supported by Mia Yu, every detail is designed to make your night feel unforgettable from the moment you arrive.  

Our 360 ° photo experience – underwritten by Tomokohi and Anne Fan – also lets you capture the energy of the evening in a dynamic, share-worthy way. Gather your friends, strike a pose and take home a keepsake that reflects the joy of the night.  

Behind the performances, prizes and dancing is something deeper: impact.  

Throughout the evening, you’ll explore a curated gallery showcasing CASL’s work- from youth leadership development to family support services. These stories and images reflect the real lives transformed by community investment.  

When you attend, you’re investing in real people, real futures and more pictures that capture a thousand words.  

This year’s theme, Threads of Legacy, Leaders of Change, reminds us that lasting impact happens when individual stories and efforts are woven together. Each guest brings a unique thread – your generosity, wisdom, experiences and belief in our mission. Together, those threads create something strong, beautiful and enduring.  

When you attend the gala, you aren’t just observing change. You are becoming part of the fabric that makes it possible.  

This year’s gala is more than just a date on the calendar – it’s a celebration of legacy, leadership and collective impact. When you walk through those doors, you’re uplifting youth, supporting families and strengthening our community.  

Purchase your tickets and find more information about the gala here.