Area Events to Support Charities
Many of the charities supported by the United Protestant Church hold their own fundraisers such as galas, races and golf events and awareness events.

Northern Illinois Food Bank
A Cup of Hope
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EmpoweRun / Walk 5K
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Independence Grove Forest Preserve
16400 Buckley Road, Libertyville
9:00am
What is the EmpoweRun / Walk 5K?
The 14th annual A Safe Place EmpoweRun / Walk 5K is a dynamic fundraising event uniting 400+ runners, friends, and supporters for a memorable spring day. Participants may take part individually or as part of a fundraising team, coming together to run, walk, or donate in support of survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking while supporting vital programs for Chicagoland families.
Funds raised at the EmpoweRun / Walk 5K enable us to sustain our comprehensive services for families affected by domestic violence and human trafficking, while also advancing community awareness of the profound impact and repercussions of violence. As the primary service provider in Lake County dedicated solely to supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, fundraising teams play an important role in expanding our reach and impact within the community.
A Safe Place offers comprehensive programs aimed at helping survivors and their children rebuild their lives post-domestic violence, while also tackling the root causes through abuser intervention initiatives. Additionally, our community education efforts raise awareness about domestic violence and human trafficking, empowering individuals to take action towards their eradication. In the past year alone, participants and fundraising teams helped A Safe Place reach over 32,000 community members, highlighting our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.
Our services include emergency shelter, permanent housing, a 24-hour crisis line 800-600-SAFE (7233), advocacy, therapy for individuals and children, support groups, art therapy, family visitation, monitored custody exchanges, batterer intervention, prevention education in schools, and community training.
About the Event
- Chip timed with age group results
- Gun time used for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Overall Winners
- CARA certified course
- Shirt notice: Participants who register after March 13 may not receive their preferred shirt size. Late April registrations may not receive a T-shirt.
USATF COURSE CERTIFICATION NUMBER: IL16016NM
Pricing
Registration through February 28th, 2026
$30/Children 5 years old and under, $15
Registration March 1 through May 1st, 2026
$35/Children 5 years old and under, $15
Day of Registration
$45/Children 5 years old and under, $15
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Northern Illinois Food Bank 
Fight Hunger 10k|5k|Fun Run
2026 Spring Gala
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Drury Lane
100 Drury Lane
Oakbrook Terrace
Join us for a fundraising event that will leave you feeling inspired, challenged and connected with fellow FMSC supporters. T
he evening will include a plated dinner and powerful stories directly from an FMSC food partner. Watch for more info to come.
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Wine, Women & Shoes
Friday, May 15, 2026
6:00 – 10:00 PM
Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
WELCOME As guests arrive, they are warmly greeted by our dashing hosts, the Shoe Guys. With every detail perfectly in place, it is time to celebrate in style and let the FUN begin.
6:00p.m . – 7:45 p.m. Marketplace • Wine Tasting • Silent Auction
Shop an exclusive collection of local boutiques and national designers showcasing the latest styles, all while sipping exceptional wines from across the country. Enjoy the Silent Auction, Wall of Wine, and an evening filled with FUN and celebration.
7:45 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Fashion Show • Live Auction • Announcing the Winners
Guests will delight in a high-energy fashion show, bid on exceptional trips and experiences, take part in the inspiring Fund-a-Need appeal, cheer on the Best in Shoe and King of Sole winners, and celebrate as the evening’s exciting raffle winners are announced.
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Stroll for Soles
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Fox River Park Waukesha, WI
11AM-1 PM
Join us this fun event at Fox River Park. We will celebrate all that God is doing in Africa with a 1 or 2 mile stroll, followed by lunch under the party tent. Remember that your registration includes an event t-shirt, parking pass, and access to all food trucks and fun activities! Watch for more details.
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24th Annual
Drive Out Domestic Violence Golf Outing
Monday, August 17, 2026
Briarwood Country Club
Deerfield, IL
Watch for more information
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Northern Lake County Churches CROP Hunger Walk
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 pm
Starting at UMC of Antioch 848 Main St. Antioch, IL
The walk is approximately 2 miles long with the option of stopping after 1 mile.
We will also be collecting non-perishable foods.
Contact Cinda for more information. 847.727.1552 or [email protected]
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Grayslake Lions Club
Grayslake Lions Coffee
Project Linus
Gurnee Sit n’ Stitch
1st and 3rd Wednesday
10:00 AM – Noon
McDonald’s, 6380 Grand Ave (Rt. 132), Gurnee, ILL, 60031
Enjoy a fun morning of blanket making and conversation. They will have a yarn and fleece exchange on the 3rd Wednesday. Grab your current project and meet at McDonald’s in front of Gurnee Mills .



