Mike McNamara watched his sister survive nearly two decades of abuse. She fled multiple times with two young children, searching for safety. But what saved her wasn’t just courage. It was transportation.
“Without it, everything else falls apart,” McNamara said.
That insight became Cruise to Independence, a fundraiser now in its sixth year that supports domestic violence survivors rebuilding their lives through housing and supportive services. This year’s event – Cruise to Independence: A Yacht Rock Experience – happens Thursday, April 30, at 6 p.m. at the Stadium Club at The Max.
Domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness. Survivors are four times more likely to experience homelessness, and more than half of women without housing cite domestic violence as the direct cause. Safe housing alone isn’t enough. Survivors need transportation to reach jobs, childcare, and basic services – the foundation of independence.
All proceeds from Thursday’s event support BEDS Plus Care, a nonprofit providing housing and supportive services to survivors rebuilding their lives.
What’s Happening
The evening features live music by Anchors Away, a Harley-Davidson photo experience, and a yacht rock-themed atmosphere. Tickets are $50. All proceeds support BEDS Plus Care, a nonprofit providing housing and supportive services to survivors.
Event sponsors include OriginPoint (presenting sponsor), Anchors Away (Pister & Schlender Families). Bar sponsors are the Haning and Soles Families.
Additional support comes from Proper Title, That’s What She Said, Stadium Club, American Family Insurance Philip Wagler LLC, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, Hawbecker & Garver, Illinois Harley-Davidson, Country Financial Samantha Ingles Agency, and other community partners.
Event Details
Stadium Club at The Max, McCook, Thursday, April 30, 6 p.m. Tickets: $50. For info, visit https://beds-plus.org/cruise/