DuPage Friends of Extension to host garden brunch to support community programs

Join the DuPage Friends of Extension on July 21 for the annual Brunch at Ball Gardens in West Chicago. Stroll through the breathtaking gardens while supporting local community programs provided by the University of Illinois Extension throughout DuPage County.

"This event is a wonderful opportunity to get an exclusive look at the famous Ball Horticulture Gardens, while supporting local programing for people of all ages," said Marilyn Joyner of DuPage Friends of Extension. "Come to be inspired by the flowers and gardens, or to relax with music and eat with family or friends. Either way, you will enjoy a pleasing environment with a delicious meal."

Brunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the gardens are open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners will be on hand to give tours and answer horticultural questions. The event also includes a silent auction with a variety of garden and gift baskets, as well as gift certificates to many restaurants and community businesses.

The cost per person for the brunch is $49. After July 13, tickets cost $54 per person.

There are limited tickets available at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.dupagefriendsofextension.webs.com.

The Ball Horticulture Gardens are located at 622 Town Road in West Chicago. The facilities and gardens are wheelchair accessible.

All proceeds will go to support University of Illinois Extension, which enhances community youth, family and community well-being through 4-H Youth Development, Nutrition and Wellness, and Horticulture education. Program examples include: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning opportunities for youth, nutrition education for all ages, and a wide array of Master Gardener volunteer projects, such as working with veterans at Cantigny Park, the youth at We Grow Dreams, the Ronald McDonald House, Therapeutic Horticulture for seniors, school programs, community gardens, and more.

For more information about the DuPage Friends of Extension and how you can join the effort, visit dupagefriendsofextension.webs.com or contact Marilyn Joyner at mabelljoyner@comcast.net.

The DuPage Friends of Extension is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is 100-percent volunteer driven.