Sponsorships Friends of the Children–Chicago holds several fundraising and outreach events during the year to raise awareness of our program, to provide resources to our children and their families, and to raise the money needed to support the program long-term. Sponsorship opportunities throughout the year include our annual fundraiser Friendsfest and our bi-annual panel presentations. To discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jenn Merriman, Development Director, jmerriman@friendschicago.org.