Events
Event Calendar
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Each January, our community comes together for one of our most meaningful volunteer events of the year, our MLK Day of Service. It’s a day dedicated to giving back, celebrating community, and continuing Dr. King’s legacy through action.
These special volunteer shifts will take place at The Giving Factory on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the following times:
– 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
– 1:30–3:30 PM
This is a great opportunity for families, coworkers, and community groups to spend time together while making a direct impact.
Spots fill up quickly each year (and registration is currently open!) so reserve your spot today by emailing us at volunteerchicago@cradlestocrayons.org.
Our Signature Events
Un-Gala®
Our Gear Up for Winter signature event, Un-Gala®, brings families together to have fun and give back. Each winter, volunteers – of all ages – gather to sort and pack everyday essentials – like hats, gloves, scarves, and more – that bring warmth to thousands of Chicagoland children in need.
Purple Party – A Mardi Gras Experience!
At this festive Mardi Gras fundraiser, we transform The Giving Factory into the French Quarter. Expect Cajun food, dancing, raffle prizes and lots of entertainment. It’s the most colorful party of the year!
Backpack-A-Thon®
Un-like their peers, kids from low-income or homeless families may lack basic school supplies. Ready for Learning’s signature event, Backpack-A-Thon brings together 700+ volunteers to stuff 30,000 backpacks and to enable kids to arrive at school ready and excited to learn. Backpack-A-Thon is a high-energy corporate event fueled by great spirit and friendly competition and takes place every summer.