Community invited to honor Buffalo Grove High School security guard Orlando Rivas at special fundraising event

Posted July 15, 2026 6:05 pm

Submitted by District 214

The community is invited to come together to honor the life and legacy of Buffalo Grove High School security guard Orlando Rivas during “A Night Remembering Orlando Rivas,” a special fundraising event from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, at Finn McCool’s Irish Sports Pub, 373 W. Dundee Road in Wheeling.

Hosted by School District 214, Buffalo Grove High School and community partners, the evening will celebrate Orlando’s life, his dedication to student safety and the lasting impact he made on students, colleagues and the greater community.

The masters of ceremonies for the event will be ESPN’s David Kaplan and White Sox legend Ron Kittle. Guests will enjoy an evening of remembrance featuring community reflections, a raffle, live music by Replay and opportunities to support the Rivas family. A $20 buffet will be available from 6-7 p.m.

Rivas, a longtime Buffalo Grove High School security guard, was known for his unwavering commitment to students and staff. He tragically lost his life while helping protect students as they crossed the street after school. His courage and selflessness continue to inspire the District 214 community and all who knew him.

The evening will begin with opening remarks from Kaplan and Kittle, followed by reflections from Buffalo Grove High School Principal Jeff Wardle, family members, students and others whose lives were touched by Orlando. A community raffle featuring White Sox memorabilia, game tickets, dining certificates, hotel stays and other prizes will follow before the evening concludes with live music celebrating Rivas’ love of classic rock.

The event is intended to bring together students, families, educators, friends and community members to remember Rivas while supporting the family he loved so deeply.

A portion of the proceeds from food and beverage sales, along with additional event fundraising, will benefit the Rivas family.

Tickets are available at finnmccoolspub.com/fundraiser-wheeling.