“The Freedom Award is given to people who share their recovery in a public way and who dedicate time, resources, and energy to helping people struggling with addictions. Their lives in recovery serve as an inspiration to all of us.   Every dollar raised at this important luncheon is used to help youth struggling with a substance use disorder achieve healthy, productive lives.”  - Sheila L. North, M.A., M.F.T., Executive Director, De Paul Treatment Centers, Inc.

Past recipients include state Senators Ben Westlund and Lenn Hannon, Sam Wheeler, Izzy’s restaurant co-founder Izzy Covalt, Ann Miller, Dr. James Thayer, Jack Hopkins and Dr. Marv Seppala, Roger Pollock, The Loyola Men’s Group, Ken and Joan Austin, Dennis Doherty and Nancy Engeman.