YWCA METROPOLITAN CHICAGO HONORS FOUR OUTSTANDING LEADERS AT 2025 COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARDS

YWCA METROPOLITAN CHICAGO HONORS FOUR OUTSTANDING LEADERS AT 2025 COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARDS

CHICAGO, IL — The YWCA Metropolitan Chicago recently hosted its annual Community Champion Awards, bringing together partners, advocates, and leaders who embody the spirit of justice, equity, and community. The event honored four inspiring individuals whose contributions have meaningfully advanced opportunity, safety, and dignity across Illinois.

The 2025 YWCA Community Champion Award Honorees include:

Lauri Morrison-Frichtl, Executive Director, Illinois Head Start Association

Honored for her bold and steadfast leadership in safeguarding critical childcare services for more than 28,000 children and families across the state.

Evan C. Saint Cloud, Associate, Walker, Wilcox Matousek LLP

Recognized for her courageous legal advocacy protecting the rights and safety of survivors of sexual assault and gender-based violence—ensuring their privacy, dignity, and access to justice remain protected.

Nathan Stevens, Senior Program Officer, The Coleman Foundation

Celebrated for his deep commitment to building stronger, more equitable conditions for women entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs of color, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Maria Toro, President, Parent Policy Council, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago

Honored for her resilient leadership and lived experience, uplifting the voices of Head Start parents and championing safe, supportive early childhood education for all families.

Founded in 1876, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is a social enterprise committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. As a leading association among a national network of more than 200 YWCAs, YWCA Metropolitan is committed to advancing safety, wellness and belonging; unleashing youth and family potential; and driving economic equity. Among a diverse and broad portfolio of services, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is a leading provider in the areas of sexual violence and community violence support services, early childhood and childcare provider services, family support services, youth STEM programming, and economic empowerment services. Learn more at www.ywcachicago.org. 


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