In this episode of LBM Flash Event, host I sit down with Terri Rivera, Director of Philanthropy at BEDS Plus, to talk about the organization’s mission, growth, and one of the community’s most beloved fundraisers, the 14th Annual Soup & Bread Event. Terri shares how BEDS Plus has evolved from a church-based shelter model into a hotel-based transitional housing system serving nearly 6,000 people annually. We discuss why the Soup & Bread event sells out so quickly, how sponsors and volunteers make the impact possible, and the many ways the community can continue supporting neighbors experiencing homelessness, especially during the coldest months.
Event Details:
BEDS Plus 14th Annual Soup & Bread Fundraiser
Date:
Sunday, February 1, 2026
3:00 – 7:00 PM
Location:
Countryside Banquet & Conference Center
6200 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL
About the Event:
- 25 different soups from local restaurants
- Craft beer tastings
- Live music performances
- Family-friendly atmosphere (kids to grandparents welcome)
- Roving magician
- Raffle with 25+ items, including trips, experiences, and gift baskets
- Community sponsors help ensure 90% of funds raised go directly to BEDS Plus programs
“I feel like my role as director of philanthropy is to connect people who care with causes that matter.” – Terri Rivera
Terri Rivera joined BEDS Plus in February 2024 after several years of service on the Fundraising Committee. She brings more than 25 years of experience in fundraising, board leadership, community engagement, and event planning, with previous roles as Director of Development at Alivio Medical Center and Executive Director of Back on My Feet, a homeless services organization. Terri holds a Master’s degree in Non-Profit Administration from North Park University, with a focus on Health Care Management, and is excited to help BEDS Plus grow through strategic vision and strong community connections.
Connect with Terri Rivera:
Website: https://beds-plus.org/
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/bedsplusorg/?_rdc=1&_rdr#
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bedsplusorg/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bedspluscare1181
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terririvera/
LinkedIn, Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beds-plus-care-inc/
Email: rivera@beds-plus.org
Contact: 708-354-0858 or 708-887-8830
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/
Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw
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