Aging Care Connections Announces Sports Ball 2025 Fundraising Event
Featuring NHL Legend Jerry "King Kong" Korab
Annual gala to honor Greg DiDomenico with Champion Award while raising funds for programs supporting older adults
La Grange, IL – Aging Care Connections will host its annual Sports Ball 2025 fundraising gala on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at The Elmcrest Banquets & Catering (7370 W. Grand Ave., Elmwood Park, Illinois). The event will feature retired NHL defenseman Jerry "King Kong" Korab as the sports celebrity guest and will honor Greg DiDomenico, President and CEO of Community Memorial Foundation, as the 2025 Champion Award recipient for Visionary Leadership.
The evening will be hosted by ABC 7 Sports anchor Dionne Miller, returning for her ninth year as Mistress of Ceremonies, with comedy entertainment provided by nationally touring comedian Jim Flannigan. Co-chairing the event are Peter Volpe and Elsa Estrada-Volpe, longtime community leaders and advocates for aging services.
Champion Award Honoree - Greg DiDomenico
Greg DiDomenico will receive the 2025 Champion Award for Visionary Leadership in recognition of his transformative philanthropy work spanning 16-plus years. Under his leadership, the Community Memorial Foundation has advanced innovative partnerships including the Aging Well Neighborhood, La Grange, Summit, and Broadview Living Rooms, The Loft at Eight Corners, West Cook County Community Health Worker Program, Mobile and RX Food Pantries, and a Youth Philanthropy Program empowering teens in grantmaking. DiDomenico previously served as board chair of the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and Forefront, and currently serves on the boards of Brookfield Zoo Chicago and La Grange Country Club Foundation.
Special Guest Jerry "King Kong" Korab
The 6'3", 220-pound defenseman earned his "King Kong" nickname for his commanding presence on the ice, complete with wild hair, bushy mustache, and a physical style that once inspired a fan to attend games in a gorilla suit. Korab started with the Chicago Blackhawks before joining Buffalo in 1973, becoming an all-star by 1975 under coach Punch Imlach. Over his distinguished career, he made three Stanley Cup appearances and earned the admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans. The Sault Ste. Marie native now lives in Elmwood Park and remains fondly remembered by Blackhawks and NHL fans everywhere.
Event Details
Tickets: $175 per person or $1,600 for a table of 10
RSVP Deadline: Thursday, September 8, 2025
The evening will feature a full open bar, hors d'oeuvres reception beginning at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. Additional activities include:
- Silent auction with 100% of proceeds supporting Aging Care Connections
- Raffle tickets with featured prizes including luxury vacation packages
- Q&A and testimonials
- Paddle raise fundraising
- Comedy entertainment by Jim Flannigan
How to Support
Guests are encouraged to don their favorite sports jerseys or hockey sweaters for the themed event. Multiple ways to support Sports Ball 2025 include:
- Purchasing tickets at https://bidpal.net/accsportsball2025
- Making donations – every dollar makes an impact
- Donating auction items – 100% of proceeds support programs
- Buying raffle tickets – 100% of sales benefit Aging Care Connections
- Event sponsorships – opportunities begin at $500
About Aging Care Connections
Funds raised at Sports Ball 2025 will help Aging Care Connections continue its vital work supporting older adults, caregivers, and families throughout its 38-community service area with programs for safe, healthy, and independent living.
The Development & Sports Ball Planning Committee includes co-chairs Peter Volpe and Elsa Estrada-Volpe, along with Matt Conboy, Mike Doepke, Brian Doruff, Joan Eichen, Linda Hussey, Steven C. Langworthy, Michael McCartney, and Lorraine Richards.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or more information, visit https://bidpal.net/accsportsball2025 or contact:
Jan Walch, Director, Philanthropy and Communications
Sponsorships/Donations
Phone: 708-603-2243
Email: jwalch@agingcareconnection.org
Kevin Kumar, Development Associate, Marketing and Outreach
Tickets/Silent Auction
Phone: 708-603-2342
Email: kkumar@agingcareconnections.org
About Aging Care Connections
Aging Care Connections is a leading nonprofit serving over 13,000 residents each year across 38 communities in suburban Cook County, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults, caregivers, and families. Through innovative programs and services, Aging Care Connections promotes dignity, independence, and well-being for those it serves.