FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Mary Gallagher, development director
mgallagher@newfoundationcenter.org
847-501-2879
RE: New Foundation Center Holds Annual Benefit
New Foundation Center hosted its eighteenth annual benefit on Sunday September 13th, 2009 at the Highland Park Country Club. Surrounded by circus decorations, 220 guests participated in auctions, raffles and a variety of games that raised about $120,000 for the center’s programs and housing.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the amount we raised, and everyone had a good time”, noted benefit chair Bette Budnik of Highland Park. The theme was “The Greatest Show on Earth – New Foundation Center” highlighting the organization’s recent name change. Entertainment included magicians, jugglers and the New Foundation Center drumming and choir group led by staff member Wendy Trafny.
The guest speaker was Bill Colling who spoke about his recovery journey – its challenges and rewards.
Bob Peterson, son of former board members Tom and Barbara Peterson, conducted a service auction raising over $13,000 for member services and programs.
Corporate sponsors included the Lesser Agency, Mesirow Financial, Baxter International Foundation, Beacon Financial, Glenview State Bank, Harris Bank and Rothbart Construction. Family sponsors included Dan and Karen Lee, Sharon Rosen, Wally and Sue Roberts and the Shimon Family.
Businesses, individuals, arts and theatre groups donated over 90 items sold in the silent auction including a Linden Square shopping spree developed around the idea on one area’s merchants coming together to donate a day or two of shopping in a charming area located in Wilmette.
All combined to make this one of the most successful events ever!
Many thanks to the 2009 Benefit committee:
| Bette Budnik, Events Chair | Angie Anderson | Debbie Budnik |
| Linda Cordin | Design Tower | helley Fishman |
| Linda Goldstein | Shelley Harmon | Jim and Pat Hunt |
| Michael and Naomi Rothbart | Rob Schell | Roberta & Jeff Shanin |
| Barbara Spencer | Martha Stutzman |
