Shelter Inc. highlights mission at Charity Ball

With the budget gridlock in Springfield, the 29th anniversary Charity Ball for Shelter Inc. took on heightened importance Friday night, with nearly 300 people decked out in tuxedos and formal gowns to attend the agency's biggest fundraiser.

The agency, which provides services for abused and neglected children in the Northwest suburbs, aimed to bring in $225,000 at the event, which was held at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, according to board member Dominic Mangone. Attendees paid $300 to attend the dinner, which featured live music, raffles and a silent and live auction.

Regina Waldroup, a reporter with NBC 5, returned for the third year as ball host, and Mike Pitcher, president and CEO of LeasePlan, served as honorary chairman.

LeasePlan has supported Shelter for the past eight years, Pitcher said. In addition, LeasePlan project manager Pat Betz was awarded the Paul Buckholz Award, an honor named for the charity's founder.

Because of issues surrounding the state budget, this year was critical for all social agencies, Mangone said.

"We went the whole year without being paid by the state," Mangone said. The group has an annual budget of approximately $3 million and, although the anniversary ball is a big help, it must continue to raise money throughout the year.

"We never rest. Fundraising is a contact sport," Mangone said.

Shelter Inc. provides foster care, emergency housing and longer-term group home services. Beck said the agency is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Shelter President Guy Eisenhuth said the group's work is vital.

"Children's issues are near and dear to everyone's heart. This is often the last stop for these kids before the streets," Eisenhuth said.

Executive Director Pat Beck said Shelter helped more than 2,400 kids and families in 2016 and referred more than 500 to other agencies and charities for help.

"It was a very busy year unfortunately," Beck said.