Optimist, CASA Teaming Up for Midwest Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is celebrated all around the world, and later this month it will be celebrated in Kendall County as well.

The Oswegoland Optimist Club is partnering with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Kendall County to put on the Midwest Mardi Gras fundraiser set for 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 at in Yorkville. The event will benefit CASA, whose volunteers serve as child advocates in court.

“I think this is great because this is two nonprofit agencies helping each other out, and you don’t see that much,” said Cathy Katz, event organizer and Optimist member.

The idea for the joint event came about because the Optimist Club had been wanting to do a Mardi Gras fundraiser and CASA had a little experience in the genre.

“CASA had Mardi Gras event last year. So, we talked about combining our efforts and this seemed like a perfect fit,” Katz said.

CASA Kendall County served about 100 children last year with its nearly 50 volunteers, and running the nonprofit agency takes fundraising events like this one, said Deb Blocker, now the regional leader for CASA.

“CASA is extremely grateful for the Optimists stepping up and using their resources to help us out,” Blocker said. “It’s truly amazing.”

As part of its theme, the event will feature live Dixieland and Zydeco music, dancing, a bayou buffet, silent auction and raffles. Volunteers will have their faces painted Mardi Gras-style by Laurie Branom of Fun in a Basket.

Event sponsors so far include , , SCC Automotive, Fitzpatrick Wealth Management Group of Stifel Nicolaus, Deborah Katz Knowles, Energetic Health & Acupuncture. Raffle and silent auction items include a signed James Taylor guitar and a pair of Prada sunglasses.

Ticket prices are $30 per person, $50 per couple, a table of 8 for $190 and a table of 10 for $225.

Business casual dress or elaborate Mardi Gras costumes are encouraged. To purchase tickets or donate, click here. 

Editor's note: Want to win a free ticket to the Midwest Mardi Gras? The first person to correctly identify the Oswego resident pictured with this article will receive free entry to the event courtesy of the Oswegoland Optimist Club. Email steven.jack@patch.com with your guess.