WINGS Celebrates 40 Years of Life-Changing Impact at Enchanted Purple Tie Ball

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago, IL – August 20^th, 2025 – WINGS Program, Inc. announces its 25th Annual Purple Tie Ball, set to transform the Westin Hotel in Rosemont into an enchanted garden on Saturday, October 4th, starting at 6:00 PM. This year’s event will celebrate WINGS’ four decades of impactful service, shine a spotlight on Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and culminate with the presentation of the prestigious David K. Hill Award to a remarkable WINGS graduate.

The evening promises to be a whimsical affair, featuring a cocktail reception, a full dinner, and a lively program featuring exciting auction offerings. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on extraordinary items and experiences, all while supporting survivors of domestic violence. The festivities will conclude with dancing to the sounds of the Bluewater Kings Band, ensuring a night to remember.

Guest enjoyed the “Ring A Bell for Champagne” wall at last year’s Purple Tie Ball.

Something for Everyone

Co-Chair Shanna Nikolic expresses her enthusiasm, stating, “Where else can you scoop up one-of-a-kind experiences and gifts while helping survivors of domestic violence? The Purple Tie Ball has something for everyone—whether it’s a trip for 8 to luxurious private villa in Thailand or curated monthly dinners for year from top local restaurants. You won’t want to miss this unforgettable night of generosity, glamour, and giving.”

From left: Terence Banich, Katherine Banich, Shanna Nikolic, and Ned Nikolic

New Traumatic Brain Injury Toolkit

At this year’s event, WINGS will also announce its new Traumatic Brain Injury Toolkit. Addressing a critical issue, 75% of domestic violence survivors suffer from single or repeated traumatic brain injuries, according to the American Brain Foundation. This toolkit, which will be available nationwide, is a testament to WINGS’ commitment to providing comprehensive support to those in need.

WINGS is actively seeking sponsors for this landmark event.

Sponsorships provide vital support for WINGS comprehensive housing, counseling, and mentoring programs, while also guaranteeing tickets for your group. Purple Tie Ball will sell out this year, so securing a sponsorship now ensures you will not miss out.

In a powerful statement, Kim Frezados, Purple Tie Ball Event Co-Chair, shares, “The work WINGS does for families is so critical. The crucial resources they provide today can break the cycle of violence for future generations.”

For a full list of our generous sponsors, please visit our event page: Purple Tie Ball Sponsors. For more information about sponsorship opportunities or to inquire about the event, please contact Nikki Katrodia at nkatrodia@wingsprogram.com.

 

From left: Ellaine Sambo-Reyther, Juliann Brown, Lori Paris, Shanna Nikolic, Katherine Banich, Kristin Tews, and Joanne Castle.

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About WINGS Program, Inc.

The mission of WINGS Program, Inc. is to provide housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to end domestic violence. With 40 years of experience, WINGS Program, Inc. is a premier provider of domestic violence solutions.

As the largest domestic violence agency in Illinois, WINGS creates high-quality, customized, domestic violence programs for survivors of all ages, ethnicities, and gender identities. WINGS programs have provided over one million nights of safe housing, life-changing community-based counseling, and award-winning mentoring programs.

Anyone experiencing domestic violence can receive help by calling the 24-hour hotline at 847.221.5680. For more information, visit www.wingsprogram.com.

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