Cradles To Crayons Hosts Mardi Gras-Themed Purple Party

In support of its efforts to provide everyday essentials for children living in low-income situations or experiencing homelessness, Cradles to Crayons hosted a Mardi Gras-themed fundraising event, Purple Party.

WGN-TV reporter Ana Belaval emceed the event, which drew more than 150 guests, including current Cradles to Crayons board chair Jack Greenberg and incoming board chair Derek Lopez. Attendees were treated to New Orleans-style cuisine (think black-eyed pea caviar and artfully served mushroom and grits) from local caterer Cajun Cafe Chicago and a specialty Purple Party cocktail courtesy of Inspiro Tequila, as well as entertainment by a magician, tarot card readers and a caricature artist.

The evening raised more than $25,000 to directly support Cradles to Crayons’ mission to support Chicagoland’s children in need.