The event, held at the Merchandise Mart, supported HighSight's scholarship program. For more than 25 years, the program has helped provide guidance for Chicago high school students from low-income families.
HighSight offers scholarships to private high schools, tutoring and mentorship to prepare students for college.
"If it weren't for HighSight I would not be where I am today," said Karina Mendez, a program alum and volunteer.
"I know it made a big impact on me so I wanted to return the favor," said Jesus Gomez, a program alum who now works for the organization. "Because of HighSight I got a scholarship and so I felt like I need to come back and give a little bit."
HighSight will start accepting applications for the program starting in January.
Gala attendees kicked off their New Year's celebrations with cocktails and dancing until 1 a.m. Monday.