Allendale Association’s “Party’n in the Prairie” Raises Over $76,000

A rip-roar’n, knee-slap’n good ole time was had by all at Allendale’s Fall Benefit this year, fondly called “Party’n in the Prairie” for its country and western theme, held recently at the historic Wagner Farm in Glenview.  Thanks to event supporters, the benefit raised over $76,000!

Chicago Bull Champion and Lake Forest resident Bill Cartwright made a special fundraising appeal to 130 guests to help the children and youth at Allendale by urging them to participate in the live auction and other giving opportunities.  Cartwright and his wife Sheri are also Allendale Trustees.

This year’s event also included line-dancing lessons, a mechanical bull riding competition and the big sounds of Bella Cain, a well-known local band and winner of the 2012 Wisconsin Area Music Industry Country Group of the Year.

Allendale’s president thanked the guests for attending the event and reminded everyone about the necessity to support children and youth who are in need of mental health treatment.  "Events like our benefit and auction are great ways to help get people involved with Allendale and its efforts and programs," said Mary Shahbazian, president of the Allendale Association.  “We are so fortunate to have steadfast supporters who know how important it is to provide a safe place for children in residential, day treatment and foster care to learn and grow.”

A venerable list of sponsors helped make Party’n in the Prairie a fun-filed evening, led by the event sponsor Allstate Insurance Company.   Other event supporters include: 

Aon Hewitt, Associated Bank, 5/3 Bank, Mr. & Mrs. Terry Brennan, Bulley & Andrews, LLC, Mr. & Mrs. William Floersch, Greenberg Traurig, LLP, Mr. & Mrs. Richard Grussel, Rinella & Rinella, Ltd, Mr, & Mrs. James Zenni, and William Blair & Company. 

For more information about how to support the children at Allendale, please visit www.allendale4kids.org or call 847-245-6279.

About The Allendale Association:

Founded in 1897, the Allendale Association is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to excellence and innovation in care, treatment, education and advocacy for young people who suffer from mental illness or trauma resulting in severe emotional or behavioral disabilities.  Allendale is one of the largest residential treatment centers in Illinois for children and adolescents aged 7 to 21.  Currently, the Allendale Association serves over 1,260 children, adolescents, young adults and families in need annually.  For more information about the Allendale Association, please visit www.allendale4kids.org.