DuPage Friends of Extension to host 'Brunch at Cantigny' Aug. 17 to support local community programs

Join the DuPage Friends of Extension on Saturday, Aug. 17, for its "Brunch at Cantigny" fundraising event.

Stroll through the museum gardens and enjoy a delicious meal while supporting local community programs provided by the University of Illinois Extension throughout DuPage County.

"This event is a wonderful opportunity to explore the Cantigny Park while helping to sustain local programs that serve people of all ages," said Marilyn Joyner of DuPage Friends of Extension. "Come to be inspired by the architecture, flowers and gardens, or to relax and eat with family or friends. You will enjoy a beautiful environment, wonderful people, and delicious food."

The event will be 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with brunch served from noon to 2 p.m.

Tickets include parking and park access and amenities until closing.

University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer horticultural questions and give guided tours.

The event 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 is $50, which includes brunch, park access and parking. After Monday, Aug. 12, it is $55.

To get details or purchase tickets, visit www.dupagefriendsofextension.webs.com.

Cantigny is located at 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. The facilities and gardens are wheelchair accessible.

All proceeds will go to support University of Illinois Extension, which enhances youth, adult, 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 the website 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.

For more information on University of Illinois Extension programs in DuPage County, visit go.illinois.edu/extensiondkk.