A Room Full of Belief - Proof That People Are Ready for Something Different
This past Friday’s Après Ski Party Fundraiser at Cocial in downtoan Arlington Heights was more than an event—it was a reminder of why this campaign exists.
The room was filled with friends I’ve known for years and people I was meeting for the very first time. Neighbors who stopped in because they’d read about our campaign. Community members who wanted to learn more, ask questions, and connect.
What stood out most wasn’t just the turnout—it was the energy.
People weren’t there out of obligation. They were there because they believe in something.
Because they’re feeling the pressure of rising costs, housing challenges, and a political system that too often overlooks suburban families. Because they want leadership that reflects their lived experience and values.
The night felt like alignment.
Alignment around affordability, safety, compassion, and fairness. Alignment around the idea that leadership should be accessible, present, and accountable. Alignment around the belief that our communities deserve better—and that change starts when people come together.
I left that night feeling energized, hopeful, and deeply grateful.
Grateful for every conversation.
Grateful for every contribution.
Grateful for a community willing to show up and say, we’re ready for something different.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported us, and continues to believe in this campaign. This is what building something together looks like—and we’re just getting started.
A Huge Thank You to Our Après Ski Sponsors
Events like this don’t happen without community—and this night especially was made possible by people who showed up with generosity, creativity, and real support for this campaign.
I’m incredibly grateful to our Après Ski Party sponsors, who helped turn an idea into a warm, welcoming space where conversations could happen and community could connect:
Ryan & Erika Cutlip
Shannon & Justin Howard
Eleni & Evan Katsoulis
Maria Zeller Brauer
Chelsea Laliberte Barnes
Becky & Darnell McClaney
Simply Balloons brought the space to life with beautiful décor, DJ Groove kept the vibe upbeat all night long, and You Look Great - Mobile Photo Booth added a dose of fun and memories we’ll be smiling about for a while.
Your support didn’t just help fund an event—it helped create a moment. One filled with joy, connection, and belief in what we’re building together.
Thank you for investing in this campaign, in our community, and in the idea that leadership can feel human, accessible, and rooted in shared values.
Thank you for your support, your trust, and your belief in what we can build together.
Let’s keep going—because together, we’re stronger.
With gratitude,
Carina Santa Maria
Candidate for Illinois State Senate, District 27