On April 11, 2026, the Chicagoland Area Alternative Education League (CAAEL) will celebrate a major milestone—50 years of impact—with an evening event designed to bring the community together in support of students who need it most.
CAAELchella takes place at 7:00 PM at the Stadium Club at the Max in McCook, and serves as both a celebration and a call to action.
Event Details
- Date: April 11, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Stadium Club at the Max, 4740 Vernon Ave., McCook, IL
- Tickets: $50 (in honor of 50 years)
Each ticket includes:
- 2 drink tickets
- Food buffet
- Silent auction
- Live DJ entertainment
Attendees can also support the event through silent auction donations, sponsorships, or spreading the word.
Why CAAEL Matters
For five decades, CAAEL has focused on students who often do not have access to traditional school opportunities.
CAAEL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works with students facing challenges such as:
- Emotional or learning disabilities
- Behavioral struggles
- Social isolation
- Autism, anxiety, and depression
- Truancy
- Drug dependency
- Gang involvement
Through athletic, academic, and art programs, CAAEL creates structured opportunities for growth, helping students build:
- Sportsmanship
- Teamwork
- Responsibility
A key component of the program is accountability. All activities take place during the school day, and students must meet weekly academic, attendance, and behavior standards to participate.
Impact by the Numbers
CAAEL’s reach across Illinois is significant:
- 5,000 students served annually
- 1,100+ events each year
- Students from 30+ counties
While many students participate in IHSA-sanctioned sports and clubs, those placed in alternative schools often miss out. CAAEL ensures these students still have access to meaningful extracurricular experiences that support personal growth and success.
Be Part of the Celebration
CAAELchella is more than an event—it’s an opportunity to directly support programs that make a difference in students’ lives.
Whether you:
- Attend the event
- Donate to the silent auction
- Become a sponsor
Or simply help spread the word
—you are contributing to a mission that has been changing lives for 50 years.
Get Tickets
Tickets can be purchased via QR code on event materials or by visiting:
https://www.caael.org
See the Impact
Watch a recap from a previous event:
https://lnkd.in/gDt4ygFU