New group dedicated to philanthropy staying local

A new philanthropic group of area business leaders, known as the Riverside Society, is hosting its first benefit for local charities.

The event, scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 8, will raise money for the Cary Children's Center for Autism, Cary Community Christmas, and resources for the development of local business.

The Riverside Society was created to develop events that make an impact locally. Its goal is to support charities in its own backyard.

"As business owners and professionals, we are so appreciative of the community we live in," said Patsy Frits of Realty Executives on the Move, who is taking a leading role in the society's first event.

"It's our mission to work together to support our community."

The holiday benefit will be held at the home of Jim and Patsy Frits. The house will be decorated throughout by the Frits family and Countryside Flower Shop, Nursery and Garden Center, and will be open to viewing.

There also will be cocktails and appetizers, a silent auction, raffles, holiday photos, a holiday boutique hosted by the flower shop, and more.

The Riverside Society was initiated by Dorothy Miller of Lake Julian Trout Farm, Patsy Frits of Realty Executives on the Move, Shawna Eagan of the Children's Center for Autism, Christine Counley of Tastefully Simple, Wendy Franz of R&W Construction, Neelie Kruse of Cary Travel Express and Suzanne Corr of the Cary Grove Area Chamber of Commerce.

Tickets for the benefit are $35 per person or $65 per couple and should be purchased in advance.

Limited tickets will be available at the door. To purchase tickets, call the chamber office at (847) 639-2800.