Sweet Home Uptown is Voice of the People Chicago’s annual fundraiser and friend-raiser. We bring together 150+ people committed to affordable housing–including residents, supporters, partners in service to low-income residents, experts in affordable housing preservation, and prominent figures who support us in this essential work. This event is our premier opportunity to recognize the rich history of our organization, the crucial role affordable housing has and continues to play in making Uptown and Chicago the rich, diverse communities we enjoy, and to honor those who move this work forward.

When: Thursday, March 26
Where: Wilson Abbey – 935 W. Wilson Ave.
Time: 7-9 pm
What: Light bites, beverages, blues music, and tours of the newly rehabbed 927 W. Wilson apartments, including photos ops at the brand-new community mural!
Dress code: Business casual

2026 HONOREES

At Sweet Home Uptown 2026, we honor three stalwarts who epitomize activism, commitment to social justice and collaboration culminating in vital programs and community developments: 

Marc Kaplan, Northside Action for Justice: A tireless advocate for social justice and liaison to Uptown’s unique historical connection to the Heart of Uptown Coalition and the original Black Panther Party 

Dan Burke, US Department of Housing & Urban Develoopment (retired): An organizer, teacher, public interest attorney, affordable housing developer in Uptown, and former HUD Multi-Family Midwest Director; and

Dordie Hester, ONE Northside: A housing organizer extraordinaire who marshals the forces of grassroots leadership, public officials, lawyers, service agencies, and housing providers with great results, including Saving the Leland Hotel!

2026 CHAMPIONS

Also this year, we recognize Champions who support the mission of Voice of the People, and  collaborations with other partners and peers: Aubrey Dvorak of Uptown People’s Law Center, Jenna Pearse-Pollack of UIC and Solidarity Works, Lee Byrd of Voice as Director/Resident-Leader, and June Webb of Urban Relocation Services.

2026 SWEET HOME UPTOWN HOSTS

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OUR SPONSORS

David Levinson and Kathy Kirn

BB KING COMMUNITY ALLIES