This year’s Golden Gavel Celebration is literally a family affair. We are very pleased to celebrate the many contributions to pro bono and CARPLS made by both our Honorees—Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry and Sean Gallagher.
Bill Lowry served on CARPLS board from 2001-2007.
“I have always been impressed with his passion to serve others and his ability to meet people where they are at and effortlessly push them to think bigger about the deep needs of our community,” Allen Schwartz, CARPLS Executive Director, said. “He recently came and spoke to our staff during a training on structural racism and they fell in love his dedication and leadership. Whether as managing partner or as a volunteer or as a Cook County Commissioner, there is no question that Bill is hands on in making a difference in peoples’ lives. He is the embodiment of the Golden Gavel Award.”
Sean has been an integral part of CARPLS for the last decade, including serving as President of the Board.
“The Ralph A. Gabric award is only given periodically for special CARPLS’ champions,” Allen Schwartz said. “Sean tends to be understated and has a quiet leadership style that has been integral to the board and the organization. When we had our anniversary a few years ago, Sean had a vision of what we could accomplish and motivated the board to reach higher than they expected. He is the calm in the storm with the many changes we see happening in terms of the services and resources that are needed most. Sean now serves on the Advisory Board, but he is never far away.”