Fideliter Club Charities hosts successful Hot Havana Nights event
The energy and enthusiasm of over 100 members and guests at the recent Fideliter Club Charities of Elgin fundraiser, "Hot Havana Nights," brought in more than $50,000 in donations.
The evening was filled with fun-filled activities, including a choice of purchasing a one-of-a-kind Havana-style Panama hat.
The fundraiser was held after a two-year hiatus of in-person events due to the pandemic. It was chaired by the club's co-presidents, Carri Laird and Robin Smith.
"As we all know with the challenging past few years we have had this is needed more than ever," Laird said. "We are so grateful to our sponsors and donors who have continued to support us through these challenging few years."
During the event, it was announced that this year's annual donation to Food For Greater Elgin will be given in honor of Kathy Hannell, a life member of the Fideliter Club of Elgin, for her many years of giving her time to the club and other charities in the community. A special presentation of the donation will be given at a later date this year.
Feeding children is the heartbeat and focus of the Fideliter Club of Elgin, Elgin's oldest philanthropic organization founded in 1882. Through the proceeds of its annual charity event, the Fideliter Club has made a substantial impact on feeding children in the greater Elgin area community.
Because of the wide range of donations the Fideliter Club receives, it is able to partner with the Northern Illinois Food Bank, the Boys and Girls Club of Elgin/South Elgin, Food For Greater Elgin, and the Batavia Food Pantry. The club provides nourishing meals, milk, food backpacks and more to comfort hungry children.
"Children should not have to worry about when they will have their next meal," Smith added. "We are honored to be a part of Fideliter's and the work providing children with nutritious food for their physical and mental growth."
Laird and Smith, both of Elgin, are passionate about the club's mission and giving back. Laird and her husband Robert Laird, co-owner of Laird Funeral Home in Elgin, have three children and one grandson. Smith and her husband Kevin have four children and nine grandchildren.
Members of the Fideliter Club reside throughout the Fox Valley area including Elgin, South Elgin, St. Charles, Geneva, Hampshire, Huntley, and Algonquin, as well as Addison and Elk Grove Village.
For information about the Fideliter Club of Elgin, contact Carri Laird at (847) 269-7622.