As the Daisie Foundation approaches its 10-year anniversary, we are proud to launch Celebrating 10—a milestone campaign honoring a decade of service, impact, and transformational outreach in the communities of Chicago, Houston, and Milwaukee. This campaign is rooted in purpose and powered by gratitude. It reflects the relationships, trust, and commitment that have guided our work and shaped our story for nearly a decade.
“The most rewarding fulfillment is knowing how you impacted someone’s life.”
To mark this extraordinary milestone, we are returning to 10 deserving schools that previously participated in our Holiday Magic Experiences. These schools were thoughtfully selected through a board voting process based on their alignment with our mission and the lasting impact they’ve had on our organization.
We aim to deliver Ten Surprises—each tailored to meet the unique needs of every school community. These surprises will range from small, heartfelt upgrades to large-scale, transformational gifts.
Each school will be represented on our newly established Principal’s Council, made up of the nominated principals from all ten schools. These school leaders will submit a custom wish list of up to five priorities—from simple needs to bold aspirations.
While every wish list will help shape the surprise, our Board and Steering Committee members will also provide insight and support throughout the process. Ultimately, the scope of each surprise will be shaped by the generosity of our partners, the funds we raise, and the in-kind contributions we’re able to secure.
This collaborative approach ensures each surprise is meaningful, feasible, and reflective of the school’s greatest needs—while also honoring the support and partnerships that make it possible.
After nearly a decade of impact, the Daisie Foundation is not simply celebrating the past—we are deepening our commitment to purpose-driven outreach and creating space for even greater transformation.
The Celebrating 10 campaign honors the educators, students, and communities that helped build our mission. It’s a full-circle expression of gratitude—and a powerful reminder that kindness leaves a legacy.
Throughout the Celebrating 10 campaign, the Daisie Foundation will present a powerful lineup of programs and events that have defined our mission and created lasting impact:
Chicago’s largest pre-Derby luncheon, returning in 2026 to celebrate 10 extraordinary women who lead with purpose and create change.
Honoring deserving moms with head-to-toe makeovers, an uplifting experience, and a day dedicated to celebrating their strength and beauty.
Surprising and honoring mothers in transition, first responders, and women facing need through simple, heartfelt acts of kindness. This initiative reminds deserving moms they are seen, celebrated, and never forgotten.
Surprising and honoring mothers in transition, first responders, and women facing need through simple, heartfelt acts of kindness. This initiative reminds deserving moms they are seen, celebrated, and never forgotten.
Surprising over 2,500 students and 500 teachers and staff across all three cities with joy, gifts, and heartfelt celebration.
Join us as we celebrate a decade of impact—and continue building a future filled with joy, purpose, lasting change, and an indelible mark on the communities we serve.
Howe School of Excellence
Chicago
Thomas Middle School
Houston
Perkins Bass Elementary School
Chicago
Mitchell Integrated Art School
Milwaukee
Little Village Elementary School
Chicago
Langston Hughes School
Chicago
Allen-Field Elementary School
Milwaukee
Stowe Dual Language School
Chicago
Hayes Bilingual School
Milwaukee
Ethel M. Young Elementary School
Houston
Old National Bank
Senior Community Marketing
& Engagement Manager, VP
Chicago
Banana Republic
District Manager
Chicago
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Director of Communications
Milwaukee
Meijer
Store Director
Chicago
Banana Republic Factory
General Manager
Chicago
Chicago School District
Educator
Chicago
NRG
Senior Director Retail Optimization and Retention
Houston
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Entrepreneur
Houston
Molina Healthcare
Manager, Growth & Community Engagement
Chicago
Meijer
Store Director
Chicago
Reliant
Senior Manager, Community Relations
Houston
Cousins Subs
Project Directo
Milwaukee
Old National Bank
Community Marketing
& Engagement Manager
Chicago
Banana Republic
Factory General Manager
Chicago
Benefit Cosmetics / LVMH
Retail Account Manager
Chicago
