On Thursday, April 30, community members are invited to enjoy an evening of music, connection, and purpose at the Cruise to Independence, a fundraising event benefiting BEDS Plus and its work supporting survivors of family violence.
The event is organized by Mike McNamara, a local mortgage loan officer with Origin Point and a member of the La Grange Business Association. McNamara’s involvement is deeply personal. On the event page, he shares that his sister is a survivor of domestic violence—an experience that inspired him to help raise awareness and support for organizations working with individuals and families navigating similar challenges. Through this event, he hopes to help ensure that survivors have access to the housing and supportive services they need to rebuild and move toward independence.
The Cruise to Independence brings that mission together with a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The evening will feature a yacht-rock themed celebration inspired by Route 66, with live music from Anchor’s Away, a custom signature drink, door prizes, a photo booth, split-the-pot opportunities, and live auctions. Guests will gather at the Stadium Club at the Max in McCook for an event that blends entertainment with an important cause.
Event Details
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Event: Cruise to Independence
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Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
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Time: 6:00 PM
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Location: Stadium Club at the Max, McCook
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Tickets: $40 per person
Tickets and additional information are available on the event page, where you can purchase tickets:
https://beds-plus.org/cruise/
Proceeds from the evening support BEDS Plus and its efforts to help survivors of family violence access stable housing and supportive services as they move forward in their lives.
About BEDS Plus
BEDS Plus is a nonprofit organization that provides housing and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability in the south and west suburbs of Chicago. The organization works to help vulnerable individuals stabilize their lives, access resources, and build a path toward independence through housing, case management, and other supportive programs.
About Mike McNamara
Mike McNamara is a mortgage loan officer with Origin Point and an active member of the La Grange Business Association. Inspired by his family’s experience with domestic violence, McNamara organized the Cruise to Independence event to raise awareness and support for organizations like BEDS Plus that provide housing and services to survivors working to rebuild their lives.
About Origin Point
Origin Point is a mortgage lending company that works with homebuyers and homeowners to provide mortgage solutions and guidance throughout the home financing process.
Events like the Cruise to Independence highlight the impact that local residents and businesses can have when they come together to support important causes. For those looking to enjoy a lively evening while helping survivors of family violence move toward independence, this event offers an opportunity to do both.