The Polish American Association's 90th Anniversary Gala and Benefit at The Drake Hotel, Chicago

By Jorge G. Zavala | Creative Director
Richard Chiang | Resident Media Director, Paul Ko | Media Contributor

The Polish American Association hosted it's 90th Anniversary Gala and Benefit Auction at The Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago on November 10th, 2012. 

The evening began with a sophisticated cocktail reception with notable guests, including the evening's honorees Arie and Bozena Zweig, major supporters of charitable and cultural organizations in the United States, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago Paulina Kapuscinska, Global Fashionista and Designer Ogilvie, and Justice of the Appellate Court of Illinois Aurelia Pucinski, among other high-profile individuals.

Arie and Bozena Zweig were honored and recognized for their generous philanthropic contributions to the Polish and Jewish community. The Zweigs are recognized supporters of diverse organizations within the United States, Poland, and Israel. Founder and CEO of R.A.Zweig, Inc., Arie Zweig most recently was awarded a special commendation by the President of Poland during the President’s visit to Chicago. Bozena Zweig is an accomplished musician who pursued a successful career in Poland prior to her move to the United States. Currently, she is a member of the Polish American Association Board of Directors in addition to her other memberships and activities.

The Annual Gala is the Polish American Association's largest fundraising event of the year, with all proceeds benefiting the organization’s 28 programs serving 3,000 clients monthly. Currently in its 90th year as an organization, the Polish American Association was established by a group of prominent businessmen to help immigrant families. From an initial focus on youth, the PAA has greatly expanded its operations and now offers 28 programs in four major areas: clinical services, support services, education/employment, and immigration. The organization has extensive partnerships and collaborations which allow it to offer its services throughout the great Chicago area.

In 2011, the PAA helped a diverse set of individuals and families receive help and support in such areas as counseling for victims of domestic violence and substance abuse; help for the homeless; access to benefits; and education and employment.

Guests, representing a wide array of industries, enjoyed an evening filled with savory champagne, delectable salmon, and cultural performances representing Polish American culture.

Alan Krashesky, ABC 7 Chicago Reporter, was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. The award ceremony - honoring both Arie and Bozena - began promptly at 9pm.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel greeted guests and offered words of wisdom to youth.

A choir of young children performed numerous songs, charming the evening with their youthful energy, talent, and vibrance.

Daniel Szefer, a young pianist, performed for guests during dinner.

Gratulacje to Arie and Bozena Zweig for their dedicated efforts and support for the Polish American and Jewish American communities. Gary Kenzer, Executive Director of the Polish American Association, and Barbara Sobecka, Special Events Associate Director with the PAA, were both very delightful and provided exceptional hospitality to attendees.

The evening was truly a success.