Annual NSYMCA Strong Kids Fundraiser Casino Event Raises $340,000
Friends of the North Suburban YMCA gathered to celebrate the 13th Annual Ken and Alta Thiel Strong Kids Scholarship Fundraiser on Friday, April 12th at the Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling. This year, to commemorate the Y's 50th Anniversary Celebration, the 500 attendees experienced a new twist to the popular event, featuring a new venue with casino games, live entertainment, an all-night dining experience, 10 local celebrities from radio and TV, and many other surprises. Organizers were thrilled with the results: the event raised a record-breaking $340,000, netting $270,000, galvanized by an outstanding outpouring of generosity during "Fund the Need" led by dynamic Y board member, Jim Tuchler.
In the last thirteen years, the Strong Kids Fund has provided over $3.3M to assist over 33,000 children, adults and seniors in the Y's 15 town service area. Each year, one out of five individuals at the Y - over 2,800 people - receive financial assistance through the Strong Kids Fund. The scholarship fund allows children and their families to participate in after-school programs, summer camp, life-saving swim lessons, older adult services, and other wellness activities for all ages.
Chairing the event was Northbrook radio personality, real estate investor and mortgage professional, David Hochberg along with his wife Elyse. David has been a leader within the mortgage industry for 20 years and hosts Chicago's highest rated real estate show "Home Sweet Home Chicago" on 890 WLS AM Radio on Saturdays from 10 am until noon. "Elyse and I have always supported local charities, especially the North Suburban YMCA," said David Hochberg. "We're honored to pledge our support to the mission of raising funds and awareness to the Strong Kids Scholarship Fundraiser."
"This year's Strong Kids Casino Night was a tremendous success for all concerned," said Howard Schultz, President/CEO of the NSYMCA. "Everyone enjoyed themselves, and their generosity has enabled us to meet our fundraising goals in grand style. The Strong Kids financial assistance comes directly from people who believe in giving back and helping others. With the help of scholarship donations, our Y is able to provide programs and services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. We are particularly grateful for the support of our 30 local sponsors including: Allstate, Whitehall of Deerfield, Northwestern Medicine, 22nd Century Media, Pioneer Press, First Bank of Highland Park, Waterway Carwash, and WLS-AM and WLS-FM Radio."
About the North Suburban YMCA
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2018/19, the North Suburban YMCA provides individuals in Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help them become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.