Highland Park, Illinois – A Highland Park native and his wife have made a generous donation of $1 million towards the construction of a permanent memorial honoring the seven victims of a tragic mass shooting that occurred in Highland Park. Jon Gray, who hails from Highland Park, and his wife Mindy Gray’s donation marks the first private contribution to the city’s initiative to create a lasting place of remembrance for those impacted by the July 4, 2022, shooting.
The City of Highland Park recently announced the Grays’ donation, emphasizing that the memorial aims to provide a space for reflection and tribute to those affected by the shooting while also honoring the community’s resilience. Jon Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer of Blackstone, expressed his connection to the community and the significance of creating a lasting memorial in remembrance of the victims.
Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering highlighted the impact of the shooting, emphasizing the need for healing and remembrance in the community. The donation from Jon and Mindy Gray is a heartfelt gesture that will contribute to the city’s long-term resiliency and efforts to honor those affected by the tragedy.
In addition to their support for the memorial, the Grays had previously assisted the Highland Park Community Foundation with relief efforts following the shooting. The City Council, along with a core working group, has been actively involved in planning and researching the establishment of the permanent place of remembrance since the fall of 2023.
The temporary memorial, currently located in the Rose Garden adjacent to city hall, features seven plaques designed in collaboration with the victims’ families. This temporary site will remain in place until the permanent memorial is completed. City officials, including Mayor Rotering and City Manager Ghida Neukirch, visited the temporary memorial alongside Jon and Mindy Gray to pay their respects and commemorate the lives lost in the shooting.
As the community continues to heal from the tragedy, the generosity of the Grays serves as a beacon of hope and kindness amid difficult times. The establishment of a permanent memorial will not only honor the memory of the victims but also provide a space for reflection and healing for the Highland Park community.