(Oct. 26, 2026) – CDF will honor Liz and Don Thompson, founder of the CAFE Group and Cleveland Avenue, with its Marian Wright Edelman Advocate for Joy Award to recognize their work advancing child well-being.
Media Contact: John Henry, jhenry@childrensdefense.org, CDF Media Relations Manager, 708-646-7679
WASHINGTON, D.C.—In November, the national advocacy organization Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) will host A National Celebration of Joy, a gala established to honor changemakers and youth advocates and celebrate the partnerships that drive its work for children.
The event at Washington, D.C.’s historic Howard Theatre will also feature the presentation of CDF’s Marian Wright Edelman Advocate for Joy Award to individuals and institutions that champion policies, build community power, and strengthen programs to improve the lives of children and youth. The award is named in honor of CDF Founder and President Emerita Marian Wright Edelman.
“The Marian Wright Edelman Advocate for Joy Award is CDF’s highest honor, recognizing servant leaders whose advocacy and partnership have made a demonstrable difference in the lives of children, young people, and families,” said CDF President and CEO Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson. “This year, the award has been renamed in honor of our Founder and President Emerita, Marian Wright Edelman.”
This year, CDF is proud to announce Elizabeth “Liz” and Don Thompson as the first individual community builders to receive the award.
The long-time married couple has built a legacy of philanthropy and service both collectively and individually. Together, they co-founded The CAFE Group, a national nonprofit supporting education leaders through funding, networks, and leadership development, and Cleveland Avenue, a Chicago-based investment firm supporting entrepreneurs and growing businesses. Currently, Liz Thompson serves as CEO and Board Chair of The CAFE Group, bringing more than three decades of nonprofit and education leadership. While Don Thompson serves as Founder and CEO of Cleveland Avenue, following a distinguished global business career that included leading McDonald’s Corporation as one of the first African American CEOs of a Fortune 500 company.
What: National Celebration of Joy
When: Thursday, November 5, 2026 | Dinner and Program – 7:00 p.m.
Where: The Historic Howard Theatre | 620 T Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20001
Dr. Wilson commended the Thompsons for their philanthropic and business leadership, noting their focus on creating opportunities and helping communities drive lasting change.
“Liz and Don’s story is rooted in a shared commitment to opening doors and investing in people,” Dr. Wilson said. “Having grown up just blocks from one another on Cleveland Avenue in Chicago, they have spent decades building distinguished careers spanning business, education, philanthropy, and civic leadership.”