Common Ground Foundation to celebrate 25 years with 'Chicago Nights, Brighter Futures' gala

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Common Ground Foundation is presenting its highly anticipated "Chicago Nights Brighter Futures" event this Saturday at The Geraghty.

Commemorating an incredible 25 years dedicated to empowering Chicago's youth, this year's celebration will feature comedic legend Cedric the Entertainer along with other special celebrity appearances, music, cocktails and an auction.

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Basketball legend Magic Johnson and comedian Anthony Anderson will also be in town helping the Common Ground Foundation celebrate 25 years of uplifting and empowering Chicago's youth.

The foundation was started by Chicago's own Grammy, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning rapper Common and his mom, Dr. Mahalia Hines.

She joined ABC7 Chicago Friday evening to talk more about the event and the foundation.

The full interview can be viewed in the video player above.

Date: Oct. 4, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m. to midnight
Location: The Geraghty, 2520 S. Hoyne Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60608
Purchase Tickets: https://luma.com/ChicagoNightsBrighterFutures or www.commongroundfoundation.org.