Center of Concern to hold virtual fundraiser, scarecrow contest

The Center of Concern will be hosting its annual fall event in a unique, fun and interactive virtual format. Guests are invited to jump aboard its virtual hayride, "A Rockin' Fall Harvest of Friends and Fun," at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10. The event is being hosted by co-chairs Terika Richardson and Ron Onesti.

The hayride will make stops that will start with presentations of the 2020 Center of Concern awards and conclude with a rockabilly concert by Rosie and the Rivets from the Arcada Theatre. Guests will have dinner delivered to their location and can choose entree options from local restaurants.

"We are proud to partner with The Center of Concern and support the many vital community programs and services they provide," said Richardson, president of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.

"Onesti Entertainment and the Des Plaines Theatre are honored to partner with The Center of Concern to bring the community a unique entertainment platform - virtually," said Ron Onesti. "I believe everyone is feeling isolated right now and we hope that this event will help bring people together and connect in a common cause of supporting the Center of Concern's important work."

"Increased isolation and restricted access to community resources during the pandemic continues to adversely impact older adults, individuals with disabilities, and families at risk of homelessness," said John McNabola, executive director of the Center of Concern.

"The need for our services is greater than ever as increasing numbers of neighbors and friends are impacted by hardships resulting from the loss of income and employment. Now, more than ever, we are reliant on our fundraising efforts to continue critical services for vulnerable residents benefiting from our programs and services."

In conjunction with the fall event, the Center of Concern is hosting a communitywide scarecrow contest. The free and family-friendly contest will award the top two public favorites.

To join the hayride or participate in the scarecrow contest, go to centerofconcern.org/hay.

The mission of the Center of Concern is to provide housing solutions, support services and counseling for older adults, persons with disabilities and others in need, enabling them to live with dignity and independence.

For details, visit centerofconcern.org or call (847) 823-0453.