Aurora Art Fundraiser To Raise Awareness For Suicide Prevention Nonprofit

AURORA, IL — A Batavia nonprofit will raise awareness for suicide prevention with its inaugural art fundraiser March 19 in downtown Aurora.

For "Spring Into Art," Suicide Prevention Services of America is planning an evening of art, food and "spirited competition" at Society 57, 100 S. River St., to raise money to fund additional counselors. From 5:30-8:30 p.m., the event space will turn into an art gallery, and each attendee will be able to claim their favorite piece of donated art.

The nonprofit offers a 24-hour phone lifeline, counseling services, depression screenings, workshops, prevention training, school interventions, support groups and annual awareness events. Its director, Stephanie Weber, said the fundraiser will help "bring hope, healing, and connection to individuals and families when they need it most," according to a news release.

Check-in will begin at 5:30 p.m., and an art preview — featuring original pieces from local and regional artists — will run until 6:30 p.m. Rent-A-Chef will provide food, Polly Ann Cakes will offer dessert, and Whiskey Acres will serve a gold rush cocktail.

Tickets are for sale on the nonprofit's website. Those who want to claim a piece of art will have to purchase a "springer" ticket, costing $125. Guests who want to hang out and watch the action can purchase the "spectator" ticket for $80.