Photography by Tom Maday

Click on the individuals to read their profiles.

Each year since 1994, Chicago has honored a handful of people whose actions have changed life in the region for the better. This year we honor a champion of the disabled, an African American publisher, a world-renowned chef, a mother who turned loss into hope, a lifesaving animal lover, a kid helping other kids, and a longtime advocate of tolerance and diversity. At a January luncheon at the Four Seasons, Chicago will celebrate the achievements of these seven remarkable individuals and reward them each with a $1,000 donation from the Chicago Tribune Foundation for the charity of their choice.

PLUS: Watch CLTV video profiles of the honorees

CHARLIE TROTTER | KENDALL CIESEMIER | MODESTO “TICO” VALLE
KATHLEEN CASEY | MARCA BRISTO | HAKI MADHUBUTI | PAULA FASSEAS