Story and Photos By: Charlie Smith | CS3 MEDIA NEWS | May 14, 2019
CHICAGO-Former First Lady of the United States, Laura Bush was the keynote speaker at the Salvation Army’s Annual Civic Luncheon. Mrs. Bush has been very busy since her time at the White House. She served on the Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board. Mrs. Bush continues to advocate for spreading freedom, human rights, access to education, and economic opportunities for women around the world. Her inspirational speech was the highlight of the luncheon. The annual luncheon is in celebration of the Salvation Army’s programs and services, and honors the recipients of the Salvation Army’s prestigious William Both Award and “Others” award. Honorees are recognized on an annual basis because they exemplify the spirit of Salvation Army’s founder, William Booth, putting others first. Honored this year with the William Booth Award was Craig and Janet Duchossios.
Joe Antunovich’s architectural firm, Antunovich & Associates, completed the Ray and Joan Kroc Center on Chicago’s south side in 2012. It is the largest community center in Chicago. Joe Antunovich said, “the building is a smash hit in that impoverished neighborhood. It’s really a safe haven for everyone in that difficult community. We should just go around and build these about five miles on center all through the city, and we’d solved all the city’s problems in all of our different wards. What they (The Salvation Army) do for our community is just incredible, especially in times of tragedy.” The firm also worked on the Freedom Center and Shield of Hope. Antunovich & Associates was honored with the “Others” award, and the firm Bully & Andrews also received this prestigious award.
During the event, the Salvation Army raised $150,000 through an auction. The money raised supports the Salvation Army’s daily efforts to give hope to the homeless, fight hunger, treat substance abuse disorders, stem violence, battle human trafficking, and other services. 12-year-old Khloe Thompson of Khloe Kares was another special guest at the luncheon. Khloe’s mission for Khloe’s cares is inspire other kids to be great and make their mark on earth. She raised $65,000 to support the Salvation Army’s homeless program during Chicago’s polar vortex. At the event, Khloe and other donors encouraged and challenged attendees to donate $150,000 to the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army’s 2019 Civic Luncheon was a well-attended inspirational event. If you would like to make a generous donation to the Salvation Army, please visit centralusa.salvationarmy.org
