Crystal Lake Jaycees Host 'Natural' Raffle

The Crystal Lake Jaycees organization is holding a new type of fundraiser.

The Jaycees' "Inaugural Natural Raffle" is set from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 5, at 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake.

The prizes will include an assortment of organic meats, wellness services and natural products, according to a Jaycees' press release. 

The grand prize is a quarter side of grass-fed beef from Q7 Ranch in Marengo. A list of raffle prizes up for grabs – as well as information about purchasing grand prize raffle tickets – can be found on the Jaycees' website.

When asked how the chapter came up with the idea for the Natural Raffle, committee chairwoman Wendy Yemm said the “committee wanted to find an innovative and educational fundraiser that could benefit our scholarship programs that enhance our community leadership.”

Given Duke’s commitment to offering locally sourced products at its restaurant, the Jaycees found Duke's to be a fitting place to host the Natural Raffle.

“Duke’s has always been about giving back,” said Zak Dolezal, Duke’s general manager, who has donated space in the venue for the event.

“Whether it’s toward the local farmers and businesses in the community, or the environment, or our clientele’s health, we are happy to help out any way we can. We’ve been working with the Jaycees for a long time and we are happy to support them, especially for this event since it supports what we do here at the restaurant with natural and whole foods.”

The Jaycees have received tremendous community support for the Natural Raffle. In addition to Duke’s donation of space for the event, local vendors have contributed food and products to be raffled, the release stated.

From yoga classes to cuts of organic pork to natural shampoos, there will be something for everyone. The event will also help educate community members about the natural options available to them in the Chicagoland area.

“Community improvement through education is a cause that I believe should be a central focus in society,” said Tina Karaway, owner of Made For You Soaps, who donated a gift basket to the Natural Raffle.

“I feel it is my responsibility to help ensure the success of every opportunity for our community to expand and thrive. The Natural Raffle is a wonderful effort put together by a generous and environmentally conscious group.”

The Jaycees hope to make this an annual event that is twofold in its goals – to fund its scholarships and other community programming - and to help move the Crystal Lake and surrounding communities toward a healthier way of life.

“I am excited that this project is not only assisting in the short term with our scholarship programs, but that we are educating the public of the local resources that are available for better nutrition and health,” said Jaycees president Yvonne Piarowski.

All proceeds will benefit the Greater McHenry County and Burleson scholarships and community projects. Anyone from the community is invited to attend.