A GROOVY AFFAIR

The Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club is known for its unwavering commitment to the local community, enriching the lives of neighbors and members through heartfelt philanthropic endeavors. However, this woman’s club is not just about philanthropy—HJWC is also known for hosting a pretty groovy party. Raising hope and raising funds in platform shoes and mirror-ball decor, the woman’s club is gearing up for its annual benefit gala, themed, Disco Dreams.

On Saturday, April 20, HJWC is hosting its highly anticipated fundraiser at Pella Signature, a Mediterranean restaurant located in Burr Ridge. The gala will be in a similar format as previous years, however, this one kicks off 2024 with a spotlight on its sponsor, luxury jeweler, CD Peacock.

“This year we decided to highlight our sponsors with a focus on four marquee events,” says Jiesi Patrevito, benefit managing co-chair. In addition to the gala, the woman’s club hosts the Education Fashion Show, a 5k Jingle Dash, and a Summer Soirée. Each of these events now has a featured sponsor, and for this year’s gala, it’s obvious that CD Peacock will add to all that glitters as the marquee sponsor for Disco Dreams.

“The partnership has been incredible, and we are so excited to continue to grow within our collaboration,” says Patrevito.

Gilded with the perfect partnership, party plans for this year’s benefit gala came to fruition organically. “We’re always thinking about new themes that excite both our club members and the community and with that, Disco Dreams along with our sponsor, became the obvious choice,” says Sena Slavik, benefit managing co-chair. “As soon as we shared this theme with the rest of our Benefit Lead Team, it was settled that we were going full disco and never looking back.”

The main purpose of this gala is to assist in fulfilling as many grant requests as possible from local organizations. “We have new organizations applying for grants each year and this year, we have more organizations than ever asking for $50,000 grants,” says Patrevito. “It’s clear that in this economy, our communities need us more than ever and we hope to help fulfill their needs as best as we can.”

Last year, the woman’s club provided a grant to Pillars Community Health and Sharing Connections. PCH has ensured safe shelter and supportive services for victims of domestic violence and their children. “HJWC’s $50,000 grant enabled PCH to complete the new playground at Constance Morris House, providing much-needed recreational space for their youngest shelter residents,” says Patrevito. “We also provided a $15,000 grant to Sharing Connections which allowed them to purchase 60 bed sets to provide to children in low-income families.”

“We are excited to support local businesses and organizations and believe staying close to home will entice more people to support and attend,” says Slavik.

Disco Dreams promises to be a night of glam, luxury, and daring expressions. Expect heavy-passed hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, music, and other surprises. “We will also offer a VIP section which will have its own dedicated bar as well as some VIP tables and booths that will allow for private servers and premium spirits,” says Slavik. “We are also working on other perks for our VIP guests but those will be kept secret until the event so you will have to come to experience it for yourself!”

Most importantly, there will be a silent auction and raffles which will be released in advance and open for bidding to those both in attendance and virtual. “The evening will be filled with incredible moments and experiences,” says Slavik, “but the fundraising component is our top priority.”

The essence of HJWC lies in the spirit of coming together. For the woman’s club, Disco Dreams is not just a theme; it’s a reflection of the unity and shared purpose that has fueled the club’s endeavors. “The club and our members work so hard throughout the year and all this hard work and planning culminates to this night,” says Slavik. “We are so excited to see not just the woman’s club, but our community join together to make an impact.”

It’s clear this benefit gala is more than just a party. It’s a celebration of the collective achievements and the realization that when individuals come together with a common purpose, they can create something extraordinary. “My favorite part about all of this is the bonds formed between the chairs of the committee and seeing the positive impact an organization like HJWC can make within our communities,” says Patrevito. “Knowing we found a group of women who share the same passion for life, family, and philanthropy has been nothing short of inspiring.”

Pro tip: go glam. Think sparkly jumpsuits, short skirts, bell bottoms, high platform shoes, and big hair. But what makes this theme truly special is the endless interpretations it offers. “The sky’s the limit and there’s no such thing as too much,” says Slavik. The event encourages attendees to embrace their creativity and immerse themselves in the vibrant and lively atmosphere that disco dreams are made of.

Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club, hjwc.us.