Champaign, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Developmental Services Center (DSC) will host its annual Tree of Hope Campaign Kick-Off and Recognition Event on November 6th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the IHotel and Illinois Conference Center, located at 1900 S. First St. in Champaign.
The event will celebrate the start of this year’s Tree of Hope campaign and introduce the 2025 Tree of Hope Spokesfamily, the Anderson family—Jason, Megan, Ellis, Oliver, and Cohen. Attendees will also hear from a former spokesfamily, learn about the campaign’s fundraising goals, and honor this year’s sponsors, whose support fully underwrites the campaign’s costs.
Special awards will be presented, including the Employer of the Year award to Meijer Urbana for their commitment to employing individuals with disabilities. Dr. Martin Repetto will receive a Special Recognition Award for his dedication to DSC’s mission, while Jasmine “Jazzy” Hague will be honored with the Personal Achievement Award for her outstanding personal achievements. Sarah Roper will receive the Wendy Webber Award for Staff Excellence for her exceptional dedication to the people DSC serves.
The Tree of Hope is DSC’s largest annual fundraiser, directly supporting programs and services for over 1,200 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities each year. Each contribution between now and January 31, helps light the tree, with every $100 donation represented by a glowing bulb on the Tree of Hope, displayed at the corner of Prospect Avenue and Marketview Drive in Champaign.
DSC’s CEO, Danielle Matthews, emphasizes the significance of the campaign, saying, “The Tree of Hope is a meaningful and inspiring time of year for all of us at DSC. We invite the community to celebrate the season by contributing to the campaign and helping light the way for individuals and families in need of support.”
To contribute or learn more, visit www.dsc-illinois.org or call 356-9176.