As we celebrate the holiday season, the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) will participate in the Candlelight Ceremony for the victims of impaired and reckless driving crashes, sponsored by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, and co-hosted by AAIM and MADD. 

 

“It’s an honor to join passionate advocates from AAIM and MADD in this solemn ceremony remembering the lives and legacies of the far too numerous victims of impaired, reckless and distracted driving,” Giannoulias said. “Decisions made behind the wheel impact all road users. Together, we must change behaviors to improve safety on our roadways and reduce preventable injuries and fatalities.”

 

This compassionate event will take place at 4:00 pm on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Our Lady of Hope Church 9711 W Devon Ave, Rosemont, IL 60018. The program will include remarks from Secretary Giannoulias.

 

“MADD is grateful to be partnering with Secretary Giannoulias and AAIM for this event,” said Emlyn Bertsche, Regional Executive Director of MADD Illinois/Iowa/Wisconsin. “Holding the ceremony in December takes on an extra special meaning as so many families are left with an empty chair at the dining table over the holidays.” 

 

There will be ceremonial candle lighting along with a local vocalist performing. Reverend Monsignor Kenneth Velo, Senior Executive for Catholic Collaboration at DePaul University, will give the Invocation.

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