'Ladders & Lagers' Fundraiser Set To Support Illinois First Responders

TINLEY PARK, IL — A fundraiser set for April 19 in Tinley Park will generate donations to an organization focused on supporting families of fallen—and active duty—first responders.

Ladders and Lagers, to be held April 19 from 6 to 11 p.m. at Hillgrove Tap, 9501 W. 171st St. in Tinley Park, is planned by the Orland Professional Firefighters union to support the 100 Club of Illinois.

At the event, 15 percent of all food and beverage sales will be donated back to the 100 Club of Illinois, when guests mention the event flyer. The night will feature a specialty cocktail, to be mixed specially for the occasion.

Nonprofit 100 Club of Illinois provides resources, financial support, access to training, and moral support to both the families of first responders killed in the line of duty and active duty first responders throughout the state of Illinois, according to the organization's website. All sworn federal, state, county and local first responders stationed in Illinois are included. The organization supports men and women who serve in public safety, police, and fire departments throughout the 102 counties of Illinois.

The event is in its 13th year, said Mark Hogan, of the Orland Professional Firefighters union. Hillgrove Tap is a new location for it; the sports bar and grill opened in the former Tribes Ale House in July 2022.

"They support us in our darkest moments," Hogan said, of why they organize the event, "so we support them as much as we possibly can."

The event will include a performance by band Echo Five, in addition to music from Band of Brothers Pipes and Drums, a firefighter bagpipe and drum band with members from Chicagoland and northwest Indiana fire departments. Guests can also expect raffles and other chances to win.