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Tickets and sponsorships are now available for the 2026 Joyful Brunch, an event honoring the late Michael Austin Clark. The brunch will support two initiatives: the MAC Mentoring Program and the Michael Austin Clark JTHS Athletic Boosters Endowed Scholarship.
The event is scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Renaissance Center in downtown Joliet. The day will begin with a Welcome Reception from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, professional photography, and music by Ellis Wright. At 1 p.m., guests will move to the ballroom for brunch and a live performance by vocalist Joy Westbrook. A cash bar and selfie station will be available throughout the afternoon.
“This is more than a brunch - it’s a celebration of community, empowerment, and joy,” said Helen Hester Ross, Event Chair. “From the music to the message, every detail is designed to inspire and uplift while supporting causes that truly make a difference.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit both the MAC Mentoring Program and the Michael Austin Clark JTHS Endowed Athletic Boosters Scholarship. These programs aim to provide young people with resources and encouragement.
The MAC Mentoring Program was established in honor of Michael Austin Clark to guide African American males in grades six through twelve across Joliet. Shelley Clark leads this program as her brother once did. “Mike believed that every young person deserves someone in their corner; someone who sees their potential and won’t let them give up on themselves,” Shelley said. “Through MAC Mentoring, we’re not just honoring his memory; we’re building futures. The impact of mentorship can change a life, and that’s exactly what Mike wanted this program to do.”
The scholarship was created with support from the JTHS Athletic Boosters, which works to enhance experiences for student-athletes at Joliet Central and Joliet West High Schools through fundraising efforts. Tanya Rico, President of JTHS Athletic Boosters stated: “Mike believed in the power of athletics to change lives. Honoring him with a scholarship that recognizes leadership, perseverance and character is a fitting way to support a deserving student-athlete and carry his legacy forward.”
Michael Austin Clark graduated from Joliet West High School in 1999. He served as president of the NAACP Joliet Branch starting in 2013 and held various leadership roles within local organizations including founding member positions at several associations focused on business development and diversity initiatives. In education, he helped launch regional councils promoting interfaith collaboration as well as student support efforts at Joliet Township High School.
“Mike’s dedication to JTHS and the Joliet community was unmatched,” said Kristine Schlismann, Joyful Brunch Co-Chair. “His legacy reminds us that true leadership is about service, and we are honored to celebrate his life through this event.”
Joliet West High School serves students in grades nine through twelve in Will County with an enrollment of over 3,300 during the 2019-2020 school year according to data from Illinois Report Card. Grade nine had the highest concentration of students at 27.3 percent (source). The school's population included approximately 34.9 percent white students, 21.2 percent black students, 39 percent Hispanic students, and 1.7 percent Asian students (source).
Tickets for Joyful Brunch 2026 are tax-deductible contributions benefiting registered nonprofit organizations involved with these programs.
Checks may be made payable to JTHS Athletic Boosters (with "Joyful Brunch" noted) or tickets purchased online.
Organizers invite community members to participate in celebrating Michael Austin Clark's legacy while supporting youth mentorship and athletic opportunities.
