Driving Hope: ALS United Greater Chicago at First Look for Charity 2024

Sarah Brandt, Director of Development

February 9, 2024 | Chicago

We had an exciting start to kick off our 20th year of service to the Chicagoland ALS community as we came together for the Chicago Auto Show’s First Look for Charity black-tie gala on Friday, February 9! We hosted our amazing ALS supporters in the Iron Horse VIP Suite for some food and beverages, mingling, and an awards ceremony to recognize some special folks who have done incredible things over the years in support of our mission.

Then the guests were able to head down to the show floor to see the nation’s largest auto show up close and personal, as well as enjoy more food and beverages and live music. It is a true honor to be one of the charity partners for this event, and the event does so much to help us further our mission of care, advocacy, and research as we continue to work towards a world without ALS!

“I had the privilege of presenting the Iron Horse Courage Award to two remarkable individuals: Scott, and Michelle, who embody courage, fortitude, and a willingness to advocate and generate awareness for the ALS community.

I was also honored to present Terry D’Arcy, steadfast advocate, and supporter of our mission with the Seeds of Hope Award.

The final award we presented was the Anchor Award to Toby and Diane Kucharski, the founding family of ALS United Greater Chicago, whose vision to serve the ALS community began with his late mother’s wish to improve the quality of care and the support for caregivers 20 years ago in loving memory of her husband, Edmund Kucharski who lost his battle to ALS.”

Julie M. Sharpe, President & CEO, ALS United Greater Chicago

“We don’t do this for the recognition. We fundraise and spread awareness in hopes that we help at least one person.”

Iron Horse Courage Award winner, Scott Marsell

“Yes, this journey is hard…but I am thankful, grateful, and blessed, for many reasons, but especially that you have chosen to walk with me and others who are going through this because it makes a difference.”

Iron Horse Courage Award winner, Michelle Francis

“By being at the event, I felt like it was a way for me to contribute, even in a small way, to such a wonderful cause. Everyone in the room had a story or a contact and was there for a reason. My reason was my friend, Sue.

I know that ALS United Greater Chicago was a strength for Sue when she lost her mom. Being there to support her with all her friends meant a lot! Thank you for including me! I already can’t wait until next year.”

Lisa Strube

“Being a part of ALS United Greater Chicago and the Iron Horse VIP Suite at the Chicago Auto Show’s First Look for Charity night is the highlight of the year. Anyone who has the opportunity to spend any minute they can with the patients, with the staff, the contributors, the donors, and just being in the Iron Horse VIP Suite knows how magical it can be. ALS United Greater Chicago goes above and beyond for their patients and anybody else who touches their lives. I know I’ve appreciated them after my mom passed away from ALS in 2011 and I hope others feel the same. I had the honor of sponsoring the photo booth for the 2nd year. That was a hit! I was also honored to donate several tickets to individuals living with ALS and their guests so they could attend a magical evening!”

Suzi Hunter