Clearbrook sells out fundraiser

Seems like anything associated with the Cubs, is red hot this fundraising season.

From autographed jerseys, bats and balls, to tickets and player appearances. The first place Cubs are drawing lots of interest, and by extension, and so are the social service agencies that are riding their coattails.

Take Clearbrook, which serves children and adults with developmental disabilities. Earlier this month, the organization held its first rooftop outing at a game between the Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals.

They sold all 200 seats, and drew in a whole new group of supporters to the agency, in the process.

"We wanted to add a fun summer event to our fundraising calendar," says Gloria Drake, corporate relations director, of their event planned before the baseball season began. "Who knew the Cubs would be so hot this season?"

The outing took place at the Sheffield Baseball20Club, facing right field. The venue was built in 2006, and consequently it features brand new amenities, beyond the game.

Guests had their choice of sitting in the stadium roof top seats for an unobstructed view of Wrigley Field, or take in the refreshments offered in the luxury suite and club levels, both featuring plasma television sets.

Food ran the gamut, from typical ballpark choices, such as hot dogs, brats, and burgers, to appetizers, a more upscale buffet and dessert.

Drake adds that the evening event offered a diversion from their more traditional benefits, that include golf outings and casino nights.

"We figured the average person hadn't been to a rooftop outing, and we were right," Drake says.

The event drew some Clearbrook parents, including Jerome Koehler of Naperville, who enjoyed the game with his son, Steve, as well as newcomers, like Adam Geenan and Ariel Douvlis, both of Chicago, who won the split the pot raffle.

Based in Arlington Heights, Clearbrook provides services for nearly 3,000 children and adults. They include: children's early intervention services, day training, employment, and residential and clinical services at more than 40 locations throughout the Chicago area.