St. Coletta’s of Illinois to Honor Kowalis Family at Upcoming Caritas Benefit

St. Coletta’s of Illinois will honor the Kowalis family with the organization’s Humanitas Award at its upcoming Caritas Benefit, recognizing more than six decades of extraordinary commitment to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

The award celebrates three generations of the Kowalis family, whose involvement with St. Coletta’s began in 1960 when Eugene and Rosemary Kowalis became connected to the organization after their youngest son, Eugene Jr., was born with developmental disabilities and enrolled at the Kennedy School. What began as a deeply personal experience grew into a lifelong mission of advocacy, philanthropy and service.

Eugene Kowalis, a prominent automotive dealer and community leader, became a driving force in advancing St. Coletta’s mission. He chaired a capital campaign to renovate the original Kennedy School in the mid-1980s and later led a major effort to raise $8 million to construct a new facility in Tinley Park, which opened in 2001. He also helped expand awareness and support for the organization through innovative fundraising initiatives, including casino nights at his dealerships, partnerships with the Chicago Auto Show and corporate sponsorships for major events.

Following his passing in 2009, his sons Jeff and Kurt Kowalis continued the family’s deep commitment to St. Coletta’s. Even after the passing of their brother Eugene Jr. in 2016, the family’s support remained strong and enduring.

Today, the third generation carries that legacy forward. Ryan, Jori, Ben, Chris, Cody and Jack Kowalis actively support St. Coletta’s signature fundraising events, including the Caritas Benefit and Kennedy Golf Outing, where they participate in both silent and live auctions that help sustain critical programs and services. Jeff Kowalis also serves on the St. Coletta’s Foundation Board and continues to engage a broad circle of supporters in the organization’s mission.

“The Kowalis family has been part of the St. Coletta’s story for generations, and their impact is felt in every corner of our organization,” said St. Coletta’s CEO Heather Benedick. “Their dedication has helped strengthen our programs, expand our reach and improve the lives of the individuals and families we serve.”

The upcoming Caritas Benefit on Nov. 7 is St. Coletta’s signature fundraising event, supporting essential educational, vocational and residential services for children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities across the south suburbs.

For more information about the Caritas Benefit or St. Coletta’s of Illinois, please visit www.stcolettasofil.org or call 708-342-5200. Tickets to the benefit may be purchased online at https://caritas2026.givesmart.com.