Fundraiser to assist Palatine Park District scholarship funding

Watch a holiday classic on the big screen and give back to the Palatine Park District Cultural Arts Programs at the Susannah's Gift Benefit Show.

The fundraiser at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine, includes performances by the Palatine Park District Dance Company, Palatine Children's Chorus and Palatine Park District Youth and Adult Theatre programs.

The festive afternoon ends with a screening of the movie "Elf."

Tickets are $10 and available in advance or at the door.

The fundraiser, in partnership with the Palatine Park Foundation, features raffle baskets and a special meet and greet with Santa. Snacks include two of Buddy the Elf's favorite food groups - candy and candy canes.

All profits from the event will support the Susannah's Gift Scholarship Fund, which assists residents with financial need who would like to participate in park district cultural arts classes and programs.

The Susannah's Gift Scholarship Fund was established in memory of Susannah Kist, a popular, longtime Palatine Park District theater and music teacher, who lost her battle with cancer in 2009.

"We have this wonderful scholarship fund in place, so that students do not need to let funding be a roadblock in pursuing a class in the arts. We would like to get the word out to see more people be able to take advantage of it," said Lisa Swan, Cultural Arts coordinator for Palatine Park District.

Tickets are available through the Cutting Hall Box Office at cuttinghall.org or at the door on Dec. 17.

If you have any questions regarding the Palatine Park Foundation Donation Program, email parkfoundation@palatineparks.org.

All donations are tax deductible as defined by Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations, sponsorships, and in-kind gifts may be contributed for a specific purpose or may be unrestricted in use to provide financial assistance where most needed.