Diversity, Inc. hosted our 12th Annual Dinner and Awards Program on September 27, 2007 at the historic Olympia Fields Country Club in Olympia Fields. It was once again, a success as over 300 people joined together to celebrate the organization's 25th Anniversary. The Dinner for Diversity, highlights the success of the organization and honors all who have supported Diversity, Inc. and its mission, "To Create Sustainable Diverse Communities."

We were proud to have honored Janis Kearney, the first presidential diarist in U.S. history, chronicling President Clinton's day-to-day life as our featured speaker. Kearney is the author of two books, From Hope to Harlem, Conversations with William Jefferson Clinton," this book includes rare and unheard voices of black Americans speaking about America's 42nd President. Their memories, stories and thoughts on Clinton, the man and his message. Kearney's new book, "Cotton Field of Dreams," is an autobiography of hard lessons learned from under-educated parents, and the slow realization that their dire impoverishment was balanced by the familial, love, trust and friendship of her family. Ms. Kearney's appearance was made possible by a generous donation from ComEd.

Comcast and LaSalle Bank sponsored our pre-dinner events. The reception began with cocktails and an exciting Diversity Elephant raffle. The highlight of the dinner is our Diversity, Inc. Awards Program sponsored by AT&T. Diversity, Inc. presented the 2007 Award to the Joint Community Relations Commission of Homewood-Flossmoor. Commission members were honored for being passionate regarding encouraging the multicultural strengths, assets of both villages and spreading the good value of their multi-cultural communities. The David A. Janke Community Vitality Award was presented to Robert C. Waite, who through his involvement with the Olympia Fields East Homeowner's Association as well as the Olympia Fields Country Club demonstrated his commitment to promoting diversity. The Community Spirit Award was presented to Peter & Jackie Holsten of Holsten Real Estate Development Corp. Holsten Development has been key in the revitalization of the Riverdale Pacesetter Neighborhood. Diversity, Inc.'s Achievement Award was shared by and given to the Calvary Community, First Reformed and Shepherd's Community churches in South Holland. The leadership of these churches worked to bring together congregations of worshipers that had previously been isolated by race to make their commitment to diversity in South Holland a reality.

All recipients given recognition made a significant contribution to the mission of Diversity, Inc. to create and sustain racially, ethnically and culturally diverse environments in our region.

We are now accepting nominations for 2008 awards ceremony. Please click the below link and review our criterion. Nominations are due in the summer.

Call Diversity, Inc. at (708) 206-1202 to reserve seating or more information.