Earth Day Benefit to raise funds, awareness for open spaces, water quality

The Conservation Foundation is bringing together supporters and partners for an inspiring evening dedicated to environmental protection, conservation and sustainability at the local level.

Set for 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 24, the foundation’s Earth Day Benefit will take place at Bobak’s Signature Events, 6440 Double Eagle Drive in Woodridge.

With the theme “Deep in Their Roots All Flowers Keep the Light,” the Earth Day Benefit raises essential funding to support The Conservation Foundation’s mission to safeguard local open spaces, improve water quality and foster environmental connections across generations.

“The Earth Day Benefit is our largest fundraiser of the year,” said Jill Johnson, Communications Manager for The Conservation Foundation. “This evening is also important for building a sense of community and belonging around conservation. It is our hope that our guests will have an amazing time and leave inspired to share our conservation ethic with others in their lives and to put it into practice themselves.”

The evening will feature a seasonal three-course dinner, hors d’oeuvres, an uplifting video and program, photo booth, wall of wine and liquor pull and a planting activity. Music will be provided by Downtown Charlie Brown.

“Earth Day is every day for those who c

are for our natural world and being in the same room as more than 600 people who are dedicated to that cause is a powerful feeling,” Johnson said. “Ultimately, the funds raised through this event go back into the community through the benefits of cleaner air and water, open spaces where people can experience the physical and mental health benefits of time spent in nature, healthy food and more habitat for wildlife and pollinators.”

Founded more than 50 years ago, The Conservation Foundation is one of the region’s oldest and most established environmental nonprofits. The organization serves DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will counties, leading initiatives that preserve natural areas, restore waterways and promote eco-friendly practices across the region.

The 2025 Earth Day Benefit is made possible by the support of sponsors such as Gerald Subaru of Naperville.

“We’re so grateful that corporations like Gerald Subaru of Naperville value nature and are willing to keep our communities healthy and strong through this support of local conservation,” Johnson said. “Sponsorships make this event possible and successful and this support of conservation help propel a culture of conservation in Northeast Illinois.”

Donna Lawler of the Gerald Auto Group said the company is proud to back the benefit.

“We believe in the mission of The Conservation Foundation and are proud to play a part in supporting conservation efforts that make our communities stronger,” Lawler said.

For event details and ticket information, visit theconservationfoundation.org/event/earth-day-benefit-2025. Learn more about Gerald Subaru of Naperville at geraldsubarunaperville.com.