On September 28, 2025, members of the City of Champaign’s Equity & Engagement Department joined Champaign Police Chief Timothy Tyler, Council Member Shauna Clayborn, Senator Paul Faraci, officials from the City of Urbana, and Blueprint partner First Followers to attend and present at the Sons and Daughters in Heaven Gala, hosted by the community organization A Cry for You.
This annual gala raises awareness and provides support for mothers, fathers, and families who have lost loved ones to gun violence in our community. Proceeds from the event directly support A Cry for You, an organization founded by Mrs. Bonnie Miller after she lost her son to gun violence, with support from Seon Williams and Katina Wilcher. The group offers a safe and compassionate space for grieving families to process their loss, while also providing resources for self-care, comfort, and basic needs that promote holistic healing.
During the gala, Miller, Wilcher, and Williams were honored with appreciation awards for their dedicated service and leadership. They were recognized alongside Karen Simms, who was instrumental in helping Miller bring A Cry for You to life and guiding the organization in transforming “pain into purpose.” Together, their work continues to provide healing, hope, and community strength in the face of loss.