Emily Bear headlines night of hope at the 2026 Rosecrance Foundation Benefit

There was no shortage of heart inside the room Tuesday night as The Rosecrance Foundation welcomed the Rockford community for its annual benefit, an evening centered on hope, healing, and the power of showing up for one another.

The 2026 Rosecrance Foundation Benefit felt less like a formal event and more like a shared experience. Throughout the night, stories and moments reminded attendees what recovery really looks like and how deeply it depends on connection.

A Rosecrance alum delivered one of the most powerful moments of the evening, sharing a personal journey that reflected struggle and transformation. The program also included a tribute to the late Beverly Rosecrance, a devoted advocate whose connection to the organization runs deep. She and her husband, Robert, received the Castle Award in 2013 for their lasting contributions to the mission.

This year, the Castle Award was presented to Stenstrom Companies and the Stenstrom and Sockness families. Their partnership has grown over generations, rooted not only in business but in a shared commitment to supporting people.

The evening also featured a performance by Rockford native and Grammy® and Emmy® Award–winning composer, producer, pianist, and chart-topping recording artist Emily Bear, whose appearance brought energy and a strong sense of hometown pride to the room.

For Rosecrance CEO Dr. Dave Gomel, the event reflected the organization’s deep ties to the community.

“Rockford is, and always will be, our home,” he said. “We are proud to be part of this community and to work alongside local leaders and partners who believe in what we do. Our 110-year legacy began here, and that is what makes it so meaningful.”

As Rosecrance continues to expand its reach, Gomel emphasized that growth would remain intentional.

“Many communities need our help,” he said. “We will continue to grow where we can make a meaningful difference, while staying grounded in the values that started here.”

By the end of the night, attendees were moved and inspired, with a clear sense of the real impact Rosecrance has in the lives it touches, the stories it helps shape, and the community that continues to stand behind its work.