Annual Report & News



Chicago-area singles help raise $35,000 for center

during 9th Annual Sweetheart Auction

Singles from nearly two dozen communities across the Chicago Metro Area helped raise $35,000 for the Larkin Center during the agency's Sweetheart Auction in February.

During the past nine years, the auction has raised $208,000 for the center. Bachelors and bachelorettes are paired with upscale date packages ranging in value from $80 to $250 and featured in a live auction. Each person's date package is auctioned before 300 guests. To help support the agency, participants also raise pledges before the event.

Leading the way in pledges raised was Ellen Strebar of Mt. Prospect. The marketing manager raised a total of $3,729, which included $850 during the event's live auction at the Chicago Northwest Marriott in Hoffman Estates.

"Participating in the Sweetheart Auction was one of the best experiences," said Strebar. "I had a lot of fun and met so many new people."

Top bachelor was Joe Charbonneau of Algonquin. The insurance broker and former NHL hockey player raised a total of $3,082.

Other leading participants included Carol Plewa of Geneva with $2,060, Deborah Lowe of Carpentersville with $1,745, Carrie Bacak of Lake in the Hills with $1,579, and Dana Slattery of Elgin with $1,500. Also, Christopher Holze of Elgin raised $1,481, Grace D'Amore of Elk Grove Village brought in $1,951 and Lorraine Gornick of Elgin collected $1,040.

Other leaders were Laurie McDevitt of Hanover Park with $1,265,  Sarah Miller of Schaumburg with $1,135, and Marjorie Wince of Elgin with $1,117.

Co-chairs of the 2005 Sweetheart Auction were Melanie Plasmier of Elgin and Kevin Barry of Huntley. To receive consideration as a participant in the 2006 Sweetheart Auction, please download the application link on the events page. Candidates may also call Mark or Sharon with the Larkin Center at (847) 695-5656, x217 or x263.

In exchange for raising pledges, participants receive local media recognition and a date package ranging from $80 to $250 or more, depending on the amount raised. Bachelors receive complimentary tuxes; bachelorettes receive free spa services.