Catholic Charities to salute Schaumburg man at Hearts for Hope fundraiser

Catholic Charities Northwest Region will honor several people and institutions at its 27th annual Hearts for Hope fundraiser, which will feature the popular pop-rock band 7th heaven.

The event, which raises money for the organization's services in the Northwest suburbs, will feature cocktails, dinner, a silent auction, and will take place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at Chandler's Chop House in Schaumburg on Saturday, April 16.

Pat Cox of Schaumburg will receive the "Heart of Charity" award. While serving on the Catholic Charities Northwest Regional Advisory Board, he helped start the Tuesday and Thursday night suppers, which now feed 7,000 people per year in Des Plaines. He was instrumental in recruiting support from parishes and businesses to sponsor the meals. After 10 years of service on the board and eight years as its chairman, he now continues to serve as lead volunteer for Thursday night suppers, overseeing volunteers and interacting with guests. He treats guests with kindness, compassion and respect.

Queen of the Rosary parish in Elk Grove Village will receive the "Parish Partner Award" and the Duchossois Family Foundation of Barrington will receive the "Community Spirit Award."

Catholic Charities is one of the largest human service agencies in the Midwest, annually serving more than 1 million people each year in Cook and Lake counties regardless of religious affiliation. With more than 150 programs at more than 160 locations, services run range from maternity and adoption to caring for fragile elders in their last phase of life. Nutrition, housing, counseling, emergency assistance and child development are primary service areas.

Catholic Charities' Northwest Regional office in Des Plaines serves Northwest Cook County and has a food pantry and clothing room; provides utility help, rental assistance, and counseling programs; and offers hot meals every Tuesday and Thursday evening. The Des Plaines office feeds and clothes more than 30,000 people a year, and distributes about 250,000 meals annually. It is at 1717 Rand Road, phone (847) 376-2100.

Information about Catholic Charities is at www.catholiccharities.net. Event tickets are $95 at www.catholiccharities.net/hearts or call (847) 376-2118.