The Center on Halsted celebrated its five-year anniversary at their Human First Gala on May 12.
An estimated 500 guests attended the dinner at the Harris Theater downtown, and more than 1,000 people attended a concert immediately following.
Bravo's Andy Cohen kicked off the evening's performances while lesbian singer-songwriter k.d. lang and the Siss Boom Bang band headlined the event.
"I don't think I've had this many men in my audience ever," Lang joked. Lang then sang Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah," which she performed at the opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Cohen regaled the audience with stories of his experiences coming out and then did a Q&A with audience members. Asked if he might consider producing a Real Housewives of Chicago show, he remarked that at least two other shows set in Chicago are being seriously considered.
"We're desperate to pitch a flag in Chicago," he said.
But a great deal of the night's focus was on the center's fifth anniversary.
Cohen highlighted the center's work with youth, in particular.
"It totally warms my heart and it should warm yours, too, that you're participating in this tonight," he said.
Modesto "Tico" Valle, CEO of the center, told the audience that before the facility was built, many community members questioned if the building would actually be utilized. He marked the occasion as proof of the center's necessity.
"Tonight we celebrate together five remarkable years," he said.
Valle has said the center sees up to 2,000 people daily now. He thanked supporters for making the center a reality and said the organization will continue to grow.
Community Spirit awards went to Chicago Cubs Charities, Chicago Community Trust and Kraft Foods. Leadership awards were given to Amina Dickerson, Laura Ricketts, Greg Cameron and Richard and Susan Kiphart.