Fundraiser Supports Lauri Bauer Foundation

As so many of my readers are aware, my dearest friend, , passed away suddenly in early January. Now, only seven months since that horrific day, a group of dedicated friends and family members hosted a golf outing, dinner and auction to benefit the Lauri S. Bauer Foundation for Sudden Loss.

The foundation was started within months after Lauri’s passing, as a group of us were able to realize that amidst this tragedy, we were blessed with the comfort and support of family and friends. Without them, so many of us would’ve lost our way in the heavy shadows of grief. To honor Lauri, we believe that this foundation will help others who don’t have the support that we had during those very dark days.

Thankfully, our support pressed on as we hosted a sold-out event last Thursday. Close to 120 people golfed and 375 people filled the ballroom at Twin Orchard Country Club for the dinner and amazing silent and live auction we held.

Not only did the residents of Long Grove, Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire and the surrounding North Shore suburbs pull their weight in attendance; it was also the businesses around town that were beyond generous in the unbelievable donations they made. 

Sheryl Bauer, Lauri’s sister-in-law and chairperson of the auction said, “Since Lauri's passing, the outpouring of support and caring for the Bauer family has been truly incredible. This was again shown with the extreme generosity of our local merchants. It is this type of community involvement that helped to make the fundraiser so successful.” 

From attendee and Buffalo Grove resident Julie Harris, “The event was incredible...everything was perfect. It was well-run, organized, fun and warm. It was an honor to be a part of it.” 

Sari Wiaz, a volunteer during the day and attendee in the evening said, “Such an amazing event! I was overwhelmed by the love and generosity in the room. It's so exciting to think of all the families this foundation will be able to help.”

Scott Bauer, Lauri’s husband, spoke so eloquently at the event and reminded us all how important it is to move forward no matter how hard it is to do so. He shared with me the following, “Thank you to everyone that made the inaugural Lauri S. Bauer Foundation for Sudden Loss Golf Outing an amazing success. With the help from so many people from our community and beyond, we will be able to realize our mission of giving help, healing and hope to children and their families that have suffered a sudden loss or crisis."

"Our partnership with Willow House will enhance their School Outreach Program by preparing school staff in advance of a tragic circumstance.  In doing so, the staff is better prepared to respond to the emotional needs of grieving students. In addition, our partnership will support Willow House in meeting the needs of communities coping with death and provide a variety of supportive educational services including Crisis Intervention and Consultation and Staff in-services and training. Through our partnership with the Barr-Harris Children’s Grief Center, we will establish the Lauri S. Bauer Foundation North/Northwest Suburban Children’s Grief Center. We will have onsite therapists who will provide grief support for children to help them overcome the emotional trauma of losing a parent or loved one through death, divorce or abandonment.” 

I miss Lauri every day, in so many ways. Though this event was both logistically and emotionally challenging, I found it therapeutic to help others in honor and remembrance of my dear friend.

As always, email me with any news, topics or ideas that you want to read about. Remember, I’d like to be the first to know! I can be reached at laurenbgpatch@aol.com.