OH LA LA TABLESCAPES

Not long after a group of civic-minded women in the Kenwood neighborhood of Chicago established the Kenwood Social Service Club to support the work of the Infant Welfare Society in 1913, women in other parts of the city and suburbs expressed interest in forming their own groups. Glencoe, Wilmette, Winnetka, Hubbard Woods, and Hinsdale joined Kenwood and the Auxiliary of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago was established.

Today the Auxiliary is comprised of seven chapters with nearly 600 members throughout the Chicagoland area. Since its inception, the Auxiliary has donated more than $140 million to IWS. The Hinsdale chapter has donated more than $600,000 over the past five years.

The vibrant medical practice that the money supports now serves entire families, not just infants & children, with a continuum of full service integrated, quality, and preventive health care services. IWS Family Health Center has recently opened a pharmacy to further expand their on-site services.

For over a century, the Hinsdale chapter has remained a vital part of the Auxiliary. These hand-on volunteers collect hundreds of coats for the coat drive, donate an incredible array of necessities and nice-to-have items at the annual Baby Shower Luncheon and gather each Spring to fill hundreds of Mother’s Day gift bags with thoughtful items and a personal note.

“Each year, we donate 2,000 diapers, 100 cans of formula and hundreds of other baby supplies, including strollers and pack & plays, which help 500 families,” said Kassandra Fisher, president of the Hinsdale Auxiliary.

The Junior Board, comprised of students in eighth through twelfth grades, raises money for IWS with bell ringing and package wrapping. These Juniors also assist with a “See Santa” party at the Center, where children receive gifts and coats.

Members work cheerfully all year. They go all out with the beloved Tablescapes luncheon. The annual event began in the late 1990s and has continued since. As a Sunday luncheon, it’s distinct from other fundraisers. It’s unabashedly a day for the ladies—although there are always a few men in the crowd.

“For more than 20 years, the Hinsdale Auxiliary has been proud to raise money in support of healthcare services to the medically underserved and vulnerable families in the Chicagoland area. We invite everyone to come shop, dine, participate in the raffles, or bid on auction items, all for a great cause,” says Fisher.

Members take inspiration for their tables from a theme. Even 25 years in, creativity shines in the choice of theme and the flawless execution that positively transports guests to another place. This time, it’s Oh La La, an ode to the colors and vibrancy of Los Angeles. The date, 3.10 (also an LA area code), is a nod to this mecca of palm trees, dazzling sunsets, and casual luxury.

Co-chair Melissa Goebel shared, “Last year’s event reflected on the history of art deco in Chicago. This year we wanted to bring back color and a more casual approach to glamour. What better inspiration than LA?”

Linda Davis, co-chair adds, “The dictionary defines this as something that demonstrates surprise, admiration, or excitement. We combined this fun word and meaning with the idea of Los Angeles, Hollywood, and the Sunset Strip It’s a place known for dreams coming true, glitz and glamour, fame, and fortune.”

The member designed tablescapes will include elevated themed décor, as well as a unique experience to complement each table theme. Each vignette will be raffled off to a lucky winner, along with other carefully curated experiences and luxury items. The Party in Palm Springs table winner will take home not only the dinner and glassware, plus flourishes chosen by the design team, but also a live DJ experience by Katelyn Hernandez, “DJ K” will turn any gathering into a sunshine filled dance party to remember. Happy Hour on the Sunset Strip will include a wine tasting by Wines for Humanity.

In addition, guests will enjoy a three-course lunch, live music, and shopping from premier boutiques. The pro tip is to buy lots of raffle tickets when purchasing a seat or table. This ensures more time to drop the personalized tickets into the hopper for the most-wanted tables and experiences. Then shop, sip, and listen to inspiring stories of patients who receive wonderful health care. It’s the whole Robertson Boulevard experience without the hassles of air travel.

Tickets for Tablescapes are available at hinsdaleiws.com.