Boards Celebrate Summer, Mercy Home at River Walk Gathering 

August 31, 2026

Author: Mark Schmeltzer

After a summer marked by stormy weather and the cancellation of many of the events and gatherings that make the season in Chicago so singularly magical, members of Mercy Home’s supporting boards were treated to a picture-perfect evening along the Chicago River for our annual Board Summer Social.

Held at O’Brien’s Riverwalk Café, the event brought together members of our Regents, Leader Council, Ambassadors, and Associate boards for an evening of fellowship, conversation, and gratitude. With summer winding down and our young people returning to school, the summer social provided a fitting opportunity to celebrate all that we have accomplished together while thanking our board members for their extraordinary generosity, leadership, and dedication that make Mercy Home’s mission possible.

Along the Riverwalk, guests mingled in the twilight beneath Chicago’s soaring skyline as pedestrians and boaters streamed by. The below-street-level vantage point at O’Brien’s accentuated the scale and beauty of the city’s celebrated architecture, especially as the sun went down. Within that inspirational setting, our board members reconnected with longtime friends, welcomed new members, and strengthened the relationships that help advance our mission on behalf of young people in need.

The evening also offered the chance to reflect on the impact of our shared efforts and look ahead with anticipation to the important work in the months ahead. Following brief remarks highlighting our upcoming Lux Gala, Mercy Home Director of Business Development and Strategic Initiatives Jim Marrese introduced Fr. Scott Donahue, who expressed his deep appreciation for those gathered and the vital role they play in supporting our work.

“Tonight is a night just to be grateful, always, to celebrate, and to enjoy one another’s company,” Fr. Scott told guests.

He also took a moment to recognize our gracious host, Peter O’Brien, a dear friend of more than four decades who has welcomed board members to his riverfront establishment for years and whose entire family remain generous and steadfast supporters of Mercy Home’s mission.

Throughout the event, members of our various boards interacted, exchanged ideas, and built connections. The conversations and camaraderie on display reflected the shared commitment that unites so many passionate supporters of our mission.

As the sun set over the Chicago River and another summer drew to a close, the evening served as a reminder of the remarkable community that stands with Mercy Home and helps us build bright future for the young people in our care.

See more photos from the event here.