The Santori Library was transformed into a glittering Winter wonderland of hope and charity Saturday, Dec. 2, when the Aurora Public Library Foundation was host to its annual fundraising gala. The event proved to be a resounding success, and exceeded fundraising goals and let guests with a lasting, positive, impression.
This year’s Winter Gala raised double what was raised in 2022, thanks to the generosity and community spirit of local businesses, organizations, and individuals! Attendees were surprised and pleased to learn that a $15,000 matching gift was used to increase the impact of the evening’s donations. The results means more literacy packets distributed at local food pantries, more Light of Learning scholarship opportunities, and more enrichment opportunities for Aurora.
“The evening was such a wonderful success and a great way to kick off the holiday season in Aurora,” said Foundation manager Jordan Lesniak. “The funds raised will further help us in our goals of increasing access to Library services for the community and supporting much-needed renovations to our Eola Road and West branches!” There was such high interest that this year’s event sold out the week before Thanksgiving and included seven new company sponsors. “It was so inspiring to see so many customers and some wonderful new community partners together in one space. We are proud of these new partnerships in our community,” adds Lesniak. It was exciting to see new and returning faces at this annual culminating event of the Foundation’s fundraising year.
From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted by an atmosphere of elegance. Decorations adorned the Library’s Atrium and first-floor spaces, creating a warm Winter ambiance. Guests enjoyed a delectable meal, which included a carving station from Reuland’s Food Service and assorted holiday-flavored desserts by Baked Box. The evening’s entertainment was provided by Windy City Dueling Pianos, whose live music set the mood for an evening of celebration and philanthropy. Another highlight of the evening was the wonderfully-curated auction which featured an array of exclusive items and experiences, thanks to the generous donations of local businesses and individuals.
Two individuals were honored during the evening’s festivities for their excellence: Mr. Jim Pilmer and Ms. Cheryl Vonhoff. Pilmer was awarded the Lifelong Learning Inspiration Award for his work as the executive director of the Fox Valley Park District and his 27-year career serving the Aurora community. “We [APLD and FVPD] are partners,” said Pilmer in his acceptance speech. “Whatever you can do for other citizens is what we are charged to do.”
Vonhoff was presented with the Thomas J. Weisner Excellence in Education Award for her work with the City of Aurora, the Kiwanis Club of Aurora, the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley Board of Directors and many other committees and boards. “I want to thank the members of the Foundation for this great honor, I can’t tell you how much it means to me,” said Vonhoff. “Our Kiwanis Club is so proud of our relationship with the Library and the APL Foundation.” The evening served as a strong testament to the power of community and collaboration.
The success of the APL Foundation’s Winter Gala is a direct reflection of the dedication and support of the organization’s board members, donors, and sponsors. Their collective efforts ensured that the event was not only a financial triumph, but also a night of celebration, inspiration, and memories. This incredible achievement will enable the Foundation to continue its crucial work and make a positive impact on the lives of community members in Aurora. Individuals can still make a gift to be matched through the end of December by visiting aplfoundationil.org. Thank you for your generosity and support!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.