A DERBY DAY TRADITION

Since its founding in 1955, many of the area’s kindest women have gravitated to membership in the Hinsdale Auxiliary of Children’s Home & Aid (CHA).

Founded in 1883, Children’s Home & Aid currently serves approximately 30,000 families throughout the state of Illinois. The organization offers welfare services, counseling and treatment programs, support for parents as well as childcare and early education programs. Prior to the pandemic, the dynamic volunteers of the Hinsdale Auxiliary could often be found in one of CHA’s facilities, reading with children and otherwise providing loving, in-person help along with financial support and supplies. These days, opportunities to visit CHA facilities are fewer, but the group still collects supplies including diapers and books and fundraises.

Their signature event is the annual Derby Day Party, a glorious riot of seersucker and florals, highly anticipated by all who attend.

“We are thrilled to continue our rich tradition this May of celebrating the Kentucky Derby while also raising much-needed funds for such a worthy non-profit,” said Laura Glenn, President of the Hinsdale Chapter of Children’s Home & Aid.” She added, “We hope that even more residents from Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Oak Brook and other surrounding towns will attend our event this year, or consider a donation to Children’s Home and Aid.”

The highly anticipated Derby Day party has historically attracted between 130 and 150 guests, usually a wonderfully multi-generational group. This year, members are hoping closer to 200 people will join in the spirited fun and help raise $150,000 or more. Organizers are planning a live auction, sure to be filled with delights and surprises, a wine auction, and thoughtful raffle items. Sponsorships are vitally important to the good work of the Hinsdale chapter and CHA as a whole. Many generous individuals and businesses have already committed to sponsoring Derby Day and more are sure to follow.

The event will begin with a cocktail hour, when guests can watch the Kentucky Derby, buy raffle tickets, and participate in the wine auction. Dinner and dancing will follow, and the live auction will be conducted by NBC Chicago on-air reporter Lauren Petty Stoltz. Guests will also hear stories about those who have benefited from Children’s Home and Aid so they can better understand the organization’s enormous impact.

“Our mission at Children’s Home & Aid is to end the need for foster care,” said Sara Irmen, who spearheads the fundraising at Children’s Home & Aid. She added, “We know that the family unit is the largest asset to any child, so if we can support parents so they can continue living with their children, then we’ve achieved our mission.”

For more than 140 years, Children’s Home & Aid has helped Illinois families at home, in the classroom, and in the community. The organization has more than 60 programs throughout the state of Illinois and serves nearly 30,000 children and families each year in over 65 counties.

The Hinsdale chapter of Children’s Home & Aid will hold their 68th annual Derby Party on May 6, 2023 from 4:30 – 11:00 p.m. at Butterfield Country Club. To purchase tickets to this year’s Derby party or to donate, please visit: childrenshomeandaid.org/events.